The STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Master in Advanced Solid Mechanics is a highly integrated two-year joint master’s programme designed for students who want to dive deep into the theory, experimentation, and numerical modelling of solid materials and structures. It combines solid scientific foundations with strong international mobility, preparing graduates for careers in research, industry, or doctoral studies.
The STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Master in Advanced Solid Mechanics is a highly integrated two-year joint master’s programme designed for students who want to dive deep into the theory, experimentation, and numerical modelling of solid materials and structures. It combines solid scientific foundations with strong international mobility, preparing graduates for careers in research, industry, or doctoral studies.
Key Details of the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Master in Advanced Solid Mechanics |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Université de Lille, Year 2 at a selected partner university within the STRAINS consortium for specialisation and master’s thesis |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Advanced Solid Mechanics, Continuum Mechanics, Computational Mechanics, Experimental Mechanics, Mechanics of Materials, Structural Mechanics |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2020 |
| End Date | 30 September 2026 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in STRAINS Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of leading European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Université de Lille | France |
| Centrale Lille Institut | France |
| Université catholique de Louvain | Belgium |
| Wrocław University of Science and Technology | Poland |
| National Technical University of Athens | Greece |
| Università della Calabria | Italy |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Université de Lille | Core modules in Continuum Mechanics, Numerical Methods, Experimental Mechanics, Dynamics and Vibrations, and Constitutive Modelling |
| Year 2 | Selected partner university within the STRAINS consortium | Advanced specialisation modules in solid mechanics and master’s thesis or professional internship (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Industry or research partner | Professional internship or research placement linked to the master’s thesis |
Research and Industry Links
The STRAINS Erasmus Mundus programme is closely linked to advanced research and engineering practice in solid mechanics. Students work with modern experimental laboratories, numerical simulation tools, and research groups across consortium universities, particularly in material behaviour, structural mechanics, and computational modelling. The final master’s thesis or internship is typically carried out in collaboration with university research teams, industrial partners, or applied research centres, preparing graduates for PhD studies or high-level engineering roles.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s in Mechanics, Mechanical or Civil Engineering (or equivalent) with strong Mechanics, Physics, and Math background.
- English proficiency at CEFR B2 or higher: TOEFL (570P / 85I), IELTS 6.5, Cambridge FCE A or B, or equivalent.
- Strong academic background and international motivation
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official academic transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Two academic recommendation letters
- Passport or national identification document
- Proof of residence (if applicable)
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official STRAINS application portal and create an account.
- Complete the online form with personal and academic details in English.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Provide referee contact information so letters are submitted by referees.
- Submit before the published deadline (typically January).
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview assessing motivation, mechanics understanding, and English communication
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Selection and Review | February |
| Final Results Notification | April-May |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Coverage of tuition costs.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Travel and installation support.
- Health and accident insurance (where applicable).
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Highlight academic excellence and technical projects related to mechanics.
- Craft a compelling motivation letter that aligns with STRAINS objectives.
- Secure strong academic references.
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews covering mechanics fundamentals and research interests
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus programme describe the experience as academically intensive and professionally rewarding, highlighting the strong research environment and international mobility as key strengths. Alumni pursue careers in advanced engineering industries, applied research centres, and technical consulting firms, while many continue to doctoral studies in solid mechanics, materials science, and computational engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Program is a Master’s in Advanced Solid Mechanics offered by a consortium of top European universities.
What are the admission requirements for the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants to the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Program must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanics, Mechanical or Civil Engineering, with strong foundations in physics and mathematics, along with proof of English proficiency.
What career opportunities are available after completing the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Program can pursue careers in research, advanced engineering industries, or continue with doctoral studies.
How long is the STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The STRAINS Erasmus Mundus Program is a two year Master’s degree consisting of four semesters with mobility across European partner universities.
