The RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters in GAMES is an innovative two-year, 120 ECTS Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree designed for students passionate about redefining the role of games and play as cultural artefacts, creative tools and industry drivers. Delivered entirely in English by a European consortium of leading institutions, the programme blends theoretical grounding with hands-on design practice, research, production and mobility across three countries. Graduates emerge with a robust artistic, critical and professional foundation to influence the evolving landscape of game and playful media industries globally.
RE_PLAY EMJM encourages cultural diversity, interdisciplinary collaboration and creative experimentation, empowering students to engage with games beyond entertainment as tools for education, social reflection, cultural expression and systemic innovation. Students move between Lisbon, Genk and Helsinki, immersing themselves in distinct national and academic ecosystems, and complete a mobility-based thesis project that underscores both individual agency and global perspective.
Key Details of the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters in GAMES |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Lusófona University and LUCA School of Arts, Year 2 at Aalto University for specialisation and thesis |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and EMJM Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Game Design, Cultural Play, Creative Production, Interdisciplinary Practice |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 October 2023 |
| End Date | 30 November 2029 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Lusófona University | Portugal |
| LUCA School of Arts | Belgium |
| Aalto University | Finland |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Lisbon (Lusófona University) & Genk (LUCA School of Arts) | Core modules in game studies, critical play, design sprints, experimental labs |
| Year 2 | Helsinki (Aalto University) + Thesis mobility | Advanced game production seminars, professional workshops, thesis project (30 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Final semester thesis at one of the consortium sites or approved partner | Professional placement or research residency |
Research and Industry Links
RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus promotes integration of academic learning with creative industry engagement through workshops, seminars, game jams and collaborations with local studios and cultural institutions across Portugal, Belgium and Finland. This liaison with external partners fosters professional networking, production residencies and opportunities to disseminate work at festivals, exhibitions and public events.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree (EQF 6 / equivalent) in game design, arts, computer science or related disciplines; professional experience may be considered.
- Documented academic achievement and motivation for interdisciplinary game study.
- English proficiency demonstrated through IELTS, TOEFL iBT or equivalent (e.g., IELTS ≥ 6.0, TOEFL ≥ 80) unless prior degree fully in English.
- Submission of a creative portfolio and motivation that reflects design thinking and cultural engagement.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts (translated to English).
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages) including links to portfolio/showreel.
- Motivation letter outlining personal vision and fit with RE_PLAY objectives.
- Portfolio and creative work samples, such as playable projects or development documentation.
- Recommendation letters and contact details for referees.
- Identification (passport page) and residency documentation.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus website and locate the admissions portal.
- Complete the online application form with personal, academic and portfolio details.
- Upload all required PDF documents in English.
- Submit referee contact information so recommendation letters are submitted by referees.
- Review and submit your application before the published deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for an interview focused on motivation, portfolio and collaborative potential.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | Mid-January |
| Selection and Review | Febuary |
| Final Results Notification | March |
| Programme Start | September / October |
Scholarship Benefits for RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering full tuition and participation costs.
- Monthly living stipend (approx. €1 400) for up to 24 months plus travel and installation allowances.
- Exposure to international academic and creative communities.
- Access to industry events and production residencies.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate your passion for game design, culture and interdisciplinary practice.
- Develop a portfolio that showcases depth, diversity and reflective critique.
- Tailor your motivation letter around the programme’s themes and mobility.
- Collect strong recommendations highlighting creativity and teamwork.
- Prepare for interview questions about design philosophy and collaborative goals.
Alumni Experience
Alumni of the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus report transformative exposure to diverse creative ecosystems, professional networks in gaming and media, and deepened capacities for cultural and industry contributions. Graduates pursue roles in game development studios, cultural institutions, creative research and entrepreneurial ventures, leveraging their cross-border expertise and portfolio-driven achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
A two-year, full-time Master’s in Game Design offered by a European consortium, culminating in a joint MA degree.
Who is eligible for the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates with a Bachelor’s (or equivalent) in game design, arts, computer science, or significant related professional experience.
Can I apply for a scholarship in the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, top-ranked applicants receive Erasmus Mundus scholarships covering tuition, living, and travel expenses for 24 months
Is English required for the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes. IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 80, or equivalent is required, unless your prior degree was entirely in English.
When can I apply to the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
Next intake opens October 2025, deadline mid‑January 2026 for the 2026–28 cohort.
