The CLE Erasmus Mundus program is a highly distinguished international Joint Master’s designed to immerse students in the rich literary and cultural heritage of Europe. This two year, 120 ECTS interdisciplinary Master’s degree trains graduates to become multilingual scholars, cultural experts, and cross border thinkers equipped to navigate academic, literary, and cultural professions worldwide.
Coordinated by Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, the CLE Erasmus Mundus offers high-level academic learning across leading universities in Italy, France, Greece, and Portugal. Focused on literature, cultural studies, art history, linguistics, and philosophy, the program combines academic coursework with cultural field trips, writing workshops, and collaborations with literary institutions, preparing students for impactful academic and professional futures.
Key Details of the CLE Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Cultures Littéraires Européennes (CLE) Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s |
| Duration | 2 Years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree (multiple diplomas) |
| Language of Instruction | Multilingual: English + two European languages (varies by track: Italian, French, Greek) |
| Study Model | Year 1 at 1 consortium university, Year 2 at a different institution mandatory |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Scholarship Funding |
| Academic Focus | Literature, Art, Linguistics, Cultural Heritage, European History, Philology |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2018 |
| End Date | 31 July 2024 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in CLE Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of top European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Università di Bologna | Italy |
| Université de Haute Alsace | France |
| Université de Strasbourg | France |
| Aristoteleion Panepistimion Thessaloniki | Greece |
| Universidade de Lisboa | Portugal |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 – Term 1 & 2 | Enroll at one consortium university | Courses in Literature, Cultural Theory, Languages, Seminars, Workshops |
| Year 2 – Term 3 | Move to a different consortium university | Cross-cultural seminars, language immersion, advanced literary research |
| Year 2 – Term 4 | Final institution or same Year 2 location | Master’s Thesis + International Defense |
| Mandatory | Mobility | Must select at least 2 universities in 2 different countries |
| Optional Enhancements | Cultural visits, writing labs, publishing collaborations |
Research and Industry Links
CLE includes collaborations with:
- Publishing houses and literary magazines
- Cultural centers, libraries, archives
- Museums and heritage institutions
- European arts and humanities networks
These partnerships support internships, field visits, cultural workshops, and professional networking for future careers.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the following:
- Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS) in Literature, Linguistics, Philology, History, Art History, Language Science or equivalent
- English proficiency (min. B1) and language skills in chosen mobility universities (minimum B2)
- Academic transcripts matching curriculum scope
- Clear mobility plan aligned with chosen universities
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree + transcripts
- Proof of language proficiency (English + institution language)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Valid passport copy
- Motivation letter
- Academic recommendation letters
- Detailed mobility plan
- Application form (online)
How to Apply – Step By Step
- Visit the CLE Erasmus Mundus official application portal (via Bologna University EMJM portal)
- Choose your Year 1 and Year 2 universities and prepare your mobility plan
- Fill out online application form
- Upload academic documents, language certificates, CV, and motivation letter
- Submit application before scholarship deadline
- Await selection results and accept place if offered
Application Timeline (2025/2026 Intake)
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Admission + Scholarship Selection | February – April |
| Program Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for CLE Erasmus Mundus Applicants
If selected for an Erasmus Mundus scholarship, applicants may receive:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel contribution and installation support
- Participation in cultural events and field trips
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Write a genuine, passion-driven motivation letter showing academic alignment
- Demonstrate multilingual adaptability and European cultural interest
- Prepare a mobility plan that fits your linguistic background
- Submit early and ensure documents meet program standards
Alumni Experience
Former participants emphasize that the CLE Erasmus Mundus program challenges students intellectually while expanding personal and cultural horizons. Graduates highlight the transformative experience of writing and defending a thesis in a foreign language, gaining both academic and personal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the CLE Erasmus Mundus Program?
It is a two year, 120 ECTS international Joint Master’s in European Literary Cultures featuring mobility across universities in Italy, France, Portugal, and Greece.
How long is the CLE Erasmus Mundus?
Two academic years.
Who is eligible to apply?
Students holding a Bachelor’s degree in humanities fields with required language skills.
How do I apply for CLE Erasmus Mundus?
Applications are submitted online through the University of Bologna’s EMJM portal.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, Erasmus Mundus scholarships are awarded to selected students covering tuition, living, and travel.
