The HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Health and Wellbeing across the Lifespan is a prestigious two-year, 120 ECTS joint master’s degree designed for students eager to build international careers in preventive health, lifestyle and wellbeing strategies. Rooted in a holistic, non-pharmacological approach, the programme equips learners with scientific knowledge and practical competencies that emphasise risk prevention rather than treatment by integrating nutrition, lifestyle education, digital health tools and evidence-based use of food supplements and cosmetics. Students study across three European countries, gaining exposure to diverse perspectives in public health, wellness innovation and preventive strategies across the lifespan.

HYGIEIA responds to a critical gap in health and wellbeing education by preparing a new generation of professionals able to navigate evolving global health challenges with expertise and innovation. Through its structured mobility path and multidisciplinary curriculum, the programme fosters cultural competence, scientific rigour and practical insight, positioning graduates for impactful roles in healthcare systems, industry, policy environments and research settings.

Key Details of the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus

Feature	Details
Programme Name	Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Health and Wellbeing across the Lifespan
Duration	2 academic years (120 ECTS)
Degree Type	Joint Master’s Degree
Language of Instruction	English
Study Model	Year 1 at Universidade Lusófona, Year 2 at Universitat de les Illes Balears and University of Belgrade for specialisation and internship/dissertation
Scholarship Type	Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding
Academic Focus	Preventive health strategies, lifestyle & nutrition education, digital health tools, regulatory frameworks of non-drug products
Intake Capacity	Up to 25 students per cohort

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 HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus

The programme is delivered by a consortium of leading European universities:

University	Country
Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias	Portugal
Universitat de les Illes Balears	Spain
University of Belgrade	Serbia

Programme Structure

Year	Location	Academic Components
Year 1 Semesters 1 & 2	Portugal (Universidade Lusófona + Spain (UIB))	Core modules on public health, nutrition, lifestyle, digital tools and sustainability, electives
Year 1 Semester 3	Serbia (University of Belgrade)	Advanced modules on non-drug products, formulation, health economics and communication
Year 2 Semester 4	Worldwide (Internship/Dissertation)	Internship or research project leading to final dissertation

Research and Industry Links

The HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus programme integrates academic learning with industry exposure by involving associated partners from healthcare providers, research centres, medical societies and commercial stakeholders across Europe. Students may engage with these partners through internships or collaborative projects, enriching their practical experience and aligning theoretical knowledge with real-world health innovation and wellbeing strategies.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (European Qualifications Framework Level 6 or higher)
• Academic background in health sciences, pharmacy, nutrition, sports science, biochemistry, chemistry, biology or related fields
• Strong motivation for preventive health and wellbeing studies
• Demonstrated English proficiency via recognised tests or equivalent

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit:

• Curriculum Vitae (up to 5 pages)
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Motivation Letter (up to 750 words)
• Academic diploma and transcripts (English or certified translation)
• Copy of passport/ID
• Residence certificate
• Proof of English proficiency
• Photo and additional portfolio for scholarship applicants

How to Apply – Step-By-Step

1. Visit the official HYGIEIA website and open the online application portal.
2. Complete personal, academic and background details.
3. Upload all required PDF documents.
4. Provide referees’ contact details for recommendation letters.
5. Review and submit before the deadline.
6. If shortlisted, participate in an English interview as part of selection.

Application Timeline 2026 Intake

Stage	Timeline
Applications Open	November
Application Deadline	February
Selection and Review	March–April
Final Results Notification	April
Programme Start	Early September

Scholarship Benefits for HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Applicants

• Erasmus+ scholarships covering full tuition and participation fees
• Monthly stipend of €1,400 for up to 24 months
• Travel support and installation allowance
• Access to international networks, events and research communities
• Additional support for students with disabilities as per EU provisions

Guidance for a Strong Application

• Present a clear and compelling motivation for studying preventive health internationally
• Highlight relevant academic and professional experience in health-related fields
• Prepare a coherent portfolio for scholarship consideration
• Demonstrate readiness to engage in multicultural environments
• Ensure all documents are clear, formatted professionally and submitted early

Alumni Experience

As the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus programme’s first cohort begins in 2025, early participants describe its interdisciplinary curriculum, international mobility and industry links as transformative for career readiness in preventive health, nutrition, wellness innovation and related sectors, emphasising practical application and future-focused competencies.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)