The SPOT Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Programme in Social Psychology of Transformation: Understanding and Mastering Social Change is an international two-year master’s degree designed to prepare future psychologists and social change agents with deep theoretical, research, and practical expertise. This programme combines rigorous academic training with international exposure across several European countries, enabling students to study societal transformation through the psychological lens of leadership, cooperation, and sustainability. SPOT brings together faculty and peers from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, equipping graduates to address contemporary social challenges on a global scale.
SPOT emphasizes a co-teaching curriculum where students engage with the International Psychoanalytic University Berlin (Germany), Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (Portugal), Università degli Studi di Padova (Italy), Tallinn University (Estonia), University of Banja Luka (Bosnia and Herzegovina), University of Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina), and University of Niš (Serbia) through structured mobility and collaborative learning. Upon successful completion, students earn a joint master’s degree that reflects both academic depth and practical readiness for careers in research, organisational consultation, psychosocial interventions, policy, and more.
Key Details of the SPOT Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in Social Psychology of Transformation: Understanding and Mastering Social Change |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at International Psychoanalytic University Berlin and Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Year 2 at Università degli Studi di Padova and other partner institutions |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Programme Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Transformative Leadership, Conflict & Cooperation, Environment & Sustainability |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 October 2024 |
| End Date | 31 October 2030 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in SPOT Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| International Psychoanalytic University Berlin | Germany |
| Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa | Portugal |
| Università degli Studi di Padova | Italy |
| Tallinn University | Estonia |
| University of Banja Luka | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| University of Sarajevo | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| University of Niš | Serbia |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Germany (IPU Berlin) | Core modules: Transformative Leadership I, Conflict and Cooperation I, Environment and Sustainability I, Advanced Research Methods |
| Semester | Portugal (Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa) | Advanced modules: Transformative Leadership II, Conflict and Cooperation II, Environment and Sustainability II |
| Year 2 | Italy (Università degli Studi di Padova) | Cross-cultural psychology and organisational modules + Internship (20 ECTS) + Dissertation (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Estonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia | Summer school, internships, and additional research opportunities |
Research and Industry Links
The SPOT Erasmus Mundus programme connects academic study with real-world practice through guaranteed internship placements in Bosnia and Herzegovina or Serbia, typically involving psychosocial support, community intervention, and organisational development. Co-teaching by partner institutions across Europe and opportunities to self-organise a summer school enrich research engagement and industry interaction.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the SPOT Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in psychology (minimum 180 ECTS with at least 100 ECTS in psychology)
- Strong academic record and motivation for societal transformation
- English language proficiency at CEFR C1 level
- Commitment to research and practical engagement in social psychology
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
- Motivation letter
- Two recommendation letters
- Passport identification page
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official programme website and open the SPOT application portal
- Fill in personal, academic, and background details
- Upload all required PDF documents in English
- Submit referee contact information for reference letters
- Review and submit your application before the deadline
- Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November |
| Application Deadline | January – February |
| Selection and Review | February – March |
| Final Results Notification | March – April |
| Programme Start | September – October |
Scholarship Benefits for SPOT Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering participation and tuition fees
- Monthly stipend of €1,400 for up to 24 months
- Travel and installation allowances
- Visa and residence fee reimbursements
- Additional support for special mobility needs
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Present a clear motivation for studying transformation psychology
- Emphasise relevant experience in social psychology or civic engagement
- Include strong academic and professional references
- Demonstrate intercultural adaptability and research commitment
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the SPOT Erasmus Mundus programme report that its international mobility, combined with hands-on internships and cross-institutional mentorship, provided a solid foundation for careers in psychological research, organisational consultancy, community leadership, and policy planning. The network of European partner universities and professional contacts greatly supports career development and doctoral studies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the SPOT Erasmus Mundus Program?
A two-year, Erasmus‑funded Joint Master’s in Social Psychology of Transformation across seven European universities.
Who can apply to the SPOT Erasmus Mundus Program?
Holders of a bachelor’s degree in psychology (180 ECTS, with ≥100 in psychology), C1 English, and ideally with practical experience or civic engagement.
How do I apply for the SPOT Erasmus Mundus Program?
Apply online via Uni‑Assist, submitting required documents, transcripts, CV, language proof, and motivation letter.
What makes the SPOT Erasmus Mundus Program stand out?
Its co-taught, multi-country structure, integrated internships, and focus on transformative social change.
When are applications for the SPOT Erasmus Mundus Program open?
Typically in autumn, with deadlines early in the year and results by spring. Check the official site for precise dates.
What are the career prospects after completing the SPOT Erasmus Mundus Program?
Alumni pursue roles in educational, organisational, clinical, counselling psychology, and academia.
