The SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Master in Sustainable Catalysis is a competitive two-year joint master’s degree for students who want international careers in chemistry, chemical engineering, and sustainable technologies. The program focuses on sustainable catalysis, green chemistry, and environmentally friendly chemical processes. Students study at different European universities, which helps them gain practical skills and understand how modern chemistry supports sustainability and industry needs.
SUCAT is offered by a consortium of leading European universities and is designed to combine strong theoretical knowledge with laboratory training, research work, and internships. The curriculum allows students to learn the basics of catalysis in the first year and specialise in areas such as homogeneous, heterogeneous, or biocatalysis in the second year. With its international mobility and research-oriented structure, the program prepares graduates for careers in industry, research organisations, or PhD studies.
Key Details of the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Master in Sustainable Catalysis (SuCat) |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at the University of Poitiers, Year 2 at a selected partner university for specialisation (Universitat Rovira i Virgili, University of Aveiro, or University of Padova) |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Catalysis (homogeneous, heterogeneous, biocatalysis), green chemistry, life cycle assessment, sustainability |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2025 |
| End Date | 31 October 2031 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in SUCAT Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of leading European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| University of Poitiers | France |
| University of Aveiro | Portugal |
| University of Rovira i Virgili | Spain |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | University of Poitiers (France) & University of Padova (Italy) | Core modules: Fundamentals of Catalysis, Sustainable Chemistry, Life Cycle Assessment, Green Chemistry Principles, Circular Economy, Environmental Law, Industrial Processes in Catalysis, Lab Practical Sessions; Summer school + internship option |
| Year 2 | Specialisation at one partner university: University of Aveiro (Portugal), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (Spain), or University of Poitiers (France) | Advanced modules: Biocatalysis / Homogeneous Catalysis / Heterogeneous Catalysis (depending on chosen university), Sustainable Process Engineering, Advanced Lab Work, Master Thesis (30–60 ECTS); Industry collaboration projects and research exposure |
| Optional Mobility / Internship | Partner universities or industry labs | Semester abroad or professional research internship for practical exposure in sustainable catalysis research and industrial projects |
Research and Industry Links
The SUCAT Erasmus Mundus program combines academic learning with practical research and industry experience. Students work on projects in different types of catalysis, focusing on sustainable chemical processes and green technologies. Internships and collaborative research opportunities are offered at partner universities and industrial laboratories across Europe. Graduates often join chemical companies, research centers, green-tech industries, or continue their studies with PhD programs in catalysis and sustainable chemistry.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification (all disciplines accepted)
- Final diploma must be submitted before 01 August of the intake year
- Minimum 3 months of documented journalism-related experience including student journalism
- Strong academic background and international motivation
- English language proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent test
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
- Motivation letter
- Documentation of journalistic experience
- Passport identification page
- Reference contact details and referee-submitted recommendation letters
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official SuCat Erasmus Mundus website and open the application portal
- Fill in personal, academic, and background details
- Upload all required PDF documents in English
- Submit referee contact information so references are uploaded by referees
- Review the application before submission
- Submit before the published deadline
- If shortlisted, prepare for an interview with a focus on motivation and communication skills
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November |
| Application Deadline | Febraury |
| Selection and Review | March |
| Final Results Notification | April-May |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ Joint Master scholarship covering tuition fees
- Monthly living stipend to support accommodation and daily expenses
- Travel allowance for relocation between partner universities
- Installation allowance for settling in host countries
- Health insurance coverage throughout the program
- Access to academic events, conferences, and international networking opportunities
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Explain why you want to study sustainable catalysis.
- Highlight your academic achievements and research projects.
- Include reports, publications, or project work if available.
- Show you can work in multicultural environments.
- Ask alumni for advice on the application and interview.
- Make sure all documents are clear, professional, and error-free.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus program report that the program is highly valuable for career and research opportunities. They gain practical skills in catalysis and sustainable chemistry. Alumni work in chemical companies, green-tech industries, research centers, or continue with PhD studies. Many also build strong international networks that support long-term career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Program?
The SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Program is a joint master’s degree in Sustainable Catalysis offered by a consortium of three European universities, focusing on various aspects of catalysis and sustainable chemistry.
Who is eligible to apply for the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Program?
Candidates with a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields, along with proven English proficiency, are eligible to apply for the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Program.
How can I apply for the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applications for the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Program are submitted online through the official program website, following all required instructions and deadlines.
What are the mobility opportunities in the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Program?
The SUCAT Program offers structured mobility across partner universities in France, Portugal, and Spain, providing students with diverse academic and research experiences.
What career opportunities does the SUCAT Erasmus Mundus Program provide?
Graduates of the SUCAT Program can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, and industries focused on sustainable catalysis and green chemistry.
