 In theory, but many times not so much in practice, the polytechnic path is more practical oriented, the university path being more research oriented.In this system, the polytechnic institutes award a "licenciatura" (bachelor) in engineering degree after three years of study, that can be complemented by a "mestrado" (master) in engineering after two plus years of study.Regarding the universities, they offer both engineering programs similar to those of the polytechnics (three years "licenciatura" plus two years "mestrado") as "mestrado integrados" (integrated master's) in engineering programs.