The ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus European Joint Masters in Design and Health_Care is an ambitious and interdisciplinary two-year joint Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programme that equips designers with the skills to tackle pressing global health and care challenges through human-centred, socially engaged design. Hosted by a consortium of European institutions, this Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s degree blends design research, practical engagement with care communities, and cross-cultural mobility to empower graduates to create inclusive, accessible solutions across diverse health-care contexts. The curriculum places emphasis on understanding care systems, communicating with stakeholders across disciplines, and designing with people at the centre of meaningful change.
Across Belgium, Portugal, and the United Kingdom, students engage with design as a tool for societal impact, developing competencies that span from service and systems design to health communication and policy-aware innovation. The ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus programme prepares graduates for careers in care organisations, design consultancies, inclusive startups, research, and international development contexts where design and health intersect.
Key Details of ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters in Design and Health_Care |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master of Fine Arts (MFA) |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at LUCA School of Arts (Belgium), Year 2 at University of Aveiro (Portugal) and Sheffield Hallam University (United Kingdom) with mobility across all partners |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding / Consortium scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Design research, care systems, inclusive healthcare design, human-centred design methodologies |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 October 2024 |
| End Date | 30 November 2030 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| LUCA School of Arts | Belgium |
| University of Aveiro | Portugal |
| Sheffield Hallam University | United Kingdom |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Belgium (LUCA School of Arts, Genk) | Core subjects in design research, care topics, and foundational health_care design modules |
| Year 2 | Portugal (University of Aveiro) and UK (Sheffield Hallam University) | Advanced thematic coursework, applied projects, and Masters Final Project & Thesis (120 ECTS total) |
| Optional Mobility | Final semester host institution selection | Students may complete final project at any partner, subject to consortium approval |
Research and Industry Links
The ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus programme integrates academic learning with engagement in real health_care contexts through master classes, industry placements, and community-based design experiences that connect students with care organisations, NGOs, and research networks dedicated to inclusive health solutions.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Recognised bachelor’s degree in design or related field (minimum 180 ECTS)
- English language proficiency (e.g. CEFR B2 or equivalent)
- Strong motivation to apply design to health and care challenges
- Portfolio demonstrating relevant design work
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation letter
- Design portfolio
- Passport or identification page
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official ResponseAble Futures programme website.
- Access and complete the online application.
- Upload all required documents in English.
- Submit before the published deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for any required interviews or portfolio reviews.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Selection and Review | Febuary |
| Final Results Notification | March |
| Programme Start | Early September 2026 |
Scholarship Benefits for ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ scholarships covering full tuition waiver and monthly stipend (€1,400 for 24 months)
- Travel, visa and installation support as part of scholarship package
- Access to workshops, industry placements and professional networks
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate clear motivation for applying to a design and healthcare-oriented master’s programme.
- Highlight relevant design portfolio work including care-focused projects.
- Emphasise reflection on care contexts and user-centred design challenges.
- Ensure personal statement and portfolio are professionally presented.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of ResponseAble Futures describe the programme as transformative in shaping designers capable of addressing complex health and care issues. Alumni go on to influence inclusive design practices, lead creative projects in care sectors, or pursue doctoral research connecting design with social change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus Program?
It’s a two-year MFA program integrating design and healthcare studies across three European universities.
Who can apply for the ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in design or related fields and proficiency in English.
Are scholarships available for the ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, Erasmus+ scholarships covering tuition and a monthly stipend are available.
What is the structure of the ResponseAble Futures Erasmus Mundus Program?
The program includes three semesters at partner universities and a final semester dedicated to thesis research.
