The ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus program is a highly competitive two-year joint master’s degree designed for students aiming to build international careers in architectural conservation, urban heritage management, and contemporary urban research. This academic track combines theoretical knowledge with practical application in urban environments and architectural heritage projects. Students study across multiple European institutions, gaining exposure to diverse architectural styles, conservation techniques, and urban planning practices. The program involves the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Politecnico di Torino, and Kaunas University of Technology, providing a robust European perspective on contemporary heritage.
Launched as an Erasmus+ Joint Master under the European Union’s EMJM funding, the program prepares graduates to safeguard, conserve, and reuse 20th-century urban and built heritage. With a total of 90 ECTS, ARURCOHE enables access to European doctoral programs and equips students with advanced skills in urban typology, architectural identity preservation, and sustainable heritage interventions. Its multi-institutional and research-driven curriculum ensures students are well-prepared for professional and academic careers in Europe and worldwide.
Key Details of the ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Program in Architectural and Urban Contemporary Heritage |
| Duration | 2 academic years (90 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Year 2 at Politecnico di Torino or Kaunas University of Technology for specialisation |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Safeguarding, Conservation, and Reuse of 20th Century Urban and Built Heritage |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 October 2022 |
| End Date | 30 November 2028 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), School of Architecture | Spain |
| Politecnico di Torino, Dipartimento di Architettura e Design | Italy |
| Kaunas University of Technology, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture | Lithuania |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain | Core modules: Contemporary Architectural Heritage, Urban Typology Analysis, Research Methodology |
| Year 2 | Politecnico di Torino, Italy or Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuania | Advanced modules: Urban Regeneration, Heritage Reuse Strategies, Dissertation (45 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Additional semester or internship | Study abroad option or professional internship |
Research and Industry Links
The ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus program integrates academic learning with practical engagement in heritage projects. Students may participate in urban conservation projects, workshops, and collaborative research with European heritage institutions. The program fosters professional connections with architectural firms, urban planning agencies, and international heritage organizations.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, or related disciplines
- Final diploma must be submitted before the application deadline
- Strong academic record and interest in urban heritage and architecture
- 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
- Portfolio or documentation of architectural/urban projects
- Passport identification page
- Reference contact details and referee-submitted recommendation letters
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official ARURCOHE 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 architectural knowledge
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | February |
| Application Deadline | March |
| Selection and Review | April |
| Final Results Notification | May |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering tuition and participation
- Living stipend depending on eligibility
- Travel support and installation allowance for non-EU residents
- Consortium scholarship awards available for top-ranked candidates
- Access to academic events, conferences, and network programmes
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Present clear motivation for studying architectural heritage in an international context
- Emphasise previous architectural, urban planning, or conservation projects
- Include high-quality portfolio or project samples
- Demonstrate readiness to work in multicultural environments
- Reach out to alumni for insight into interview expectations
- Ensure documents are professionally written and error-free
Alumni Experience
Graduates of ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus report significant professional growth, citing practical engagement in heritage projects and exposure to European architectural methodologies as key strengths. Alumni work in urban planning firms, heritage conservation agencies, international organizations, or pursue doctoral research in architectural and urban studies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
hat makes the ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Program unique?
It’s the only Erasmus Mundus master devoted entirely to 20th‑century architectural and urban heritage
Can I access a PhD after completing ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus?
Absolutely, its 90‑ECTS joint diploma gives direct access to doctoral studies in Europe
Which universities participate in the ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Program?
The ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Program is jointly offered by the University of the Basque Country (Spain), Politecnico di Torino (Italy), and Kaunas University of Technology (Lithuania).
Does the ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Program offer scholarships?
Yes, the ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Program offers full scholarships that cover tuition, travel, installation costs, and a monthly stipend for selected students.
What language is the ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Program taught in?
The ARURCOHE Erasmus Mundus Program is entirely taught in English, and proof of proficiency is required during the application process.
