The SEAS4.0 Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree is a highly competitive two-year international programme designed for students seeking advanced expertise in sustainable ship design, maritime engineering, and next-generation shipping systems. The programme integrates naval architecture, marine engineering, digitalisation, and environmental sustainability to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the global maritime sector. Through a structured mobility scheme, students study in multiple European countries, gaining exposure to diverse regulatory, industrial, and technological maritime contexts.

Launched under the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree framework, SEAS4.0 responds to the urgent global demand for decarbonised, digital, and resilient shipping systems. The programme brings together leading European universities with strong academic and industrial reputations in naval architecture and marine engineering. Its curriculum combines solid theoretical foundations, applied engineering training, and research-driven learning aligned with Shipping 4.0 principles. Graduates are equipped to address contemporary challenges in ship sustainability, smart maritime operations, and environmental compliance at an international level.

Key Details of the SEAS4.0 Erasmus Mundus

Feature	Details
Programme Name	Erasmus Mundus Master in Sustainable Ship and Shipping 4.0 (SEAS 4.0)
Duration	2 academic years (120 ECTS)
Degree Type	Joint Master’s Degree
Language of Instruction	English
Study Model	Year 1 at University of Naples Federico II, Year 2 at a selected partner university for specialisation
Scholarship Type	Erasmus+ Joint Master Degree Scholarships
Academic Focus	Sustainable Ship Design, Green and Smart Shipping, Digitalisation, Marine Systems Engineering

Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information

Item	Detail
Status	Ongoing
Start Date	01 September 2020
End Date	28 Febraury 2026
Action Type	Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM)

Universities and Countries Involved in SEAS4.0 Erasmus Mundus

The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of European universities:

University	Country
University of Naples Federico II	Italy
University of A Coruña	Spain
University of Zagreb	Croatia
Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH)	Germany

Programme Structure

Year	Location	Academic Components
Year 1	Italy (University of Naples Federico II)	Core modules: Naval Architecture Fundamentals, Marine Engineering Systems, Sustainable Ship Design, Research Methods
Year 2	One partner university chosen based on specialisation	Advanced specialisation modules, applied projects, and Master’s thesis (60 ECTS)
Optional Mobility	Industry placement or research activities	Internship or research collaboration linked to thesis work

Research and Industry Links

The SEAS 4.0 Erasmus Mundus programme maintains strong connections with the maritime industry and research institutions across Europe. Students benefit from exposure to shipyards, classification societies, maritime technology providers, and research centres working on green propulsion, digital ship design, and smart maritime systems. Industry-led seminars, applied projects, and thesis collaborations ensure alignment with real-world challenges in sustainable shipping and maritime innovation.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the SEAS4.0 Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field
• Degree completed before the programme start date
• Strong academic background in engineering fundamentals
• Demonstrated interest in sustainable shipping and maritime technologies
• English language proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or an equivalent recognised test

Required Documents

• Bachelor’s degree certificate and official academic transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
• Motivation letter
• Copy of passport identification page
• Reference contact details and recommendation letters submitted by referees

How to Apply – Step-By-Step

• Visit the official SEAS4.0 Erasmus Mundus website and access the application portal
• Complete personal, academic, and background information
• Upload all required documents in PDF format and in English
• Provide referee contact details for online recommendation submission
• Review the application carefully before final submission
• Submit the application before the official deadline
• If shortlisted, attend an online interview focusing on academic motivation and technical background

Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake

Stage	Timeline
Applications Open	November
Application Deadline	March
Selection and Review	March
Final Results Notification	April
Programme Start	Early September

Scholarship Benefits for SEAS4.0 Erasmus Mundus Applicants

• Full tuition and participation cost coverage under Erasmus+ funding
• Monthly living allowance for the duration of the programme
• Travel and installation support for eligible non-EU students
• Health insurance coverage as part of the Erasmus Mundus package
• Access to academic events, research networks, and industry-linked activities

Guidance for a Strong Application

• Clearly articulate motivation for specialising in sustainable ship and shipping systems
• Highlight academic strengths in engineering and maritime-related subjects
• Demonstrate awareness of environmental and digital challenges in global shipping
• Present a coherent academic and professional trajectory aligned with SEAS 4.0 objectives

Alumni Experience

Graduates of the SEAS4.0 Erasmus Mundus programme highlight its strong academic rigour, international mobility, and close industry relevance. Alumni pursue careers in ship design companies, maritime technology firms, classification societies, and research institutions, while others continue into doctoral studies in marine and maritime engineering fields.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)