The META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Manufacturing 4.0 by intElligent and susTAinable technologies is an elite two-year (120 ECTS) joint master’s degree designed for students aiming to build global careers in advanced manufacturing systems, digital and sustainable industry solutions, and smart production technologies. Delivered entirely in English and organised across multiple European universities, this programme equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to tackle the technological, environmental, and industrial challenges of Manufacturing 4.0.
Established under the auspices of the Erasmus+ EMJM initiative, META 4.0 brings together six leading European technical universities to offer an integrated, mobility-rich curriculum that blends core engineering foundations with specialised tracks in digital, clean, sustainable, and intelligent manufacturing technologies. As a result, students gain exposure to cutting-edge research, cross-cultural teamwork, and industry-aligned project work, positioning them competitively for careers in manufacturing innovation and systems engineering.
Key Details of the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Manufacturing 4.0 by intElligent and susTAinable technologies |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at École Centrale de Lyon (France) and Politecnico di Torino (Italy), Year 2 at partner universities for specialisation |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Manufacturing 4.0, Digital Manufacturing, Clean Manufacturing, Sustainable Manufacturing, Smart/Intelligent Manufacturing |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 November 2022 |
| End Date | 31 December 2028 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of prominent European technical universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| École Centrale de Lyon | France |
| ENISE – École Nationale d’Ingénieurs de Saint-Étienne | France |
| Politecnico di Torino | Italy |
| Norwegian University of Science and Technology | Norway |
| University of Ljubljana | Slovenia |
| Technische Universität Chemnitz | Germany |
| Mines Saint-Étienne | France |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | France & Italy | Core foundations in manufacturing technologies and materials science (60 ECTS) |
| Year 2 | Specialisation at partner universities | Specialised modules and mobility in manufacturing disciplines + work placement and Master thesis (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Semester exchanges or internships | Practical industrial or research experience |
Research and Industry Links
META 4.0 integrates academic learning with practical industrial relevance by engaging closely with key European manufacturing stakeholders. Industrial partners from aerospace, automotive, energy, automation, and smart systems sectors contribute insights into curriculum design and offer opportunities for internships, applied projects, and thesis collaborations, strengthening the link between education and the labour market.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree (BSc or equivalent; 180 ECTS) in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechatronics, or a related field
- Minimum academic standing equivalent to a ‘B’ average
- Documented coursework in mathematics or engineering fundamentals
- English language proficiency (B2 or higher via IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC)
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Academic references
- Passport identification page
- Additional portfolio or documentation as specified in the application portal
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official META 4.0 online application portal.
- Complete personal and academic details.
- Upload all required supporting documents in English.
- Submit referees’ contact information for recommendation letters.
- Review and submit your application before the deadline (15 February).
- Await notification of results (typically by late March).
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November |
| Application Deadline | February |
| Selection and Review | March |
| Final Results Notification | March/April |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Tuition and participation costs fully covered for Erasmus+ scholarship holders
- Monthly stipend (approx. €1,400) for living and accommodation
- Travel support and insurance coverage
- Installation and relocation allowance where applicable
- Access to academic networks, industry contacts, and mobility opportunities
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate your motivation for pursuing advanced manufacturing studies.
- Highlight relevant engineering projects or practical experience.
- Showcase evidence of technical skills, teamwork, and international outlook.
- Ensure all documents are professionally presented and error-free.
- Engage early with referees to secure strong recommendation letters.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus programme report transformational academic growth and strong professional preparedness. Alumni enter roles in international manufacturing firms, research institutions, and technology consultancies, leveraging the multidisciplinary training and international exposure gained through mobility and industrial engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus program?
It’s a two‑year joint master’s funded by Erasmus+, focused on Manufacturing 4.0 with mobility, specialisations, and scholarships.
Who can apply to META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus?
Students with a bachelor’s in relevant engineering or materials fields and strong English proficiency.
What scholarships are available under the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus program?
The META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus program offers Erasmus+ scholarships that provide up to €1,400 per month for living expenses, full tuition coverage, health insurance, and travel support.
What degrees are awarded upon completion of the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus program?
Graduates of the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus program receive multiple nationally accredited master’s degrees—two from the first-year universities and one from the university offering the specialization.
Is industry experience included in the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus program?
Yes, the final semester of the META 4.0 Erasmus Mundus program includes a mandatory internship or research thesis in collaboration with industry or academic partners, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
