The ReSound Erasmus Mundus Joint Master of Arts in Sound Design for Media Arts is a two-year, full-time European Joint Master’s programme that explores the role of sound as an artistic, cultural, and technological force across media arts, immersive environments, performance and audiovisual industries. Designed around creative practice and critical inquiry, the programme equips students with deep skills in sound design, production, composition, and research, preparing graduates for innovative careers across film, gaming, immersive media, and artistic practice.
Delivered within a pan-European consortium, ReSound Erasmus Mundus fosters intense academic mobility and cross-cultural collaboration across three universities in Ireland, Portugal and Lithuania, allowing students to immerse themselves in diverse creative cultures and professional networks. Its rigorous curriculum and industry-linked projects view sound not just as a technical craft but as a meaningful element shaping experience, perception, narrative and space.
Key Details of the ReSound Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | ReSound Erasmus Mundus Joint Master of Arts in Sound Design for Media Arts |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Institute of Art, Design + Technology (IADT) & Lusófona University, Year 2 at Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre or partner for thesis |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Erasmus Mundus Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Sound design, creative practice, immersive media, audiovisual production |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 January 2025 |
| End Date | 28 February 2031 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
| Funded By | Erasmus+ Programme, European Union |
| Project Number | 101180273 |
Universities and Countries Involved in ReSound Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of leading European institutions:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Institute of Art, Design + Technology (IADT) | Ireland |
| Universidade Lusófona (UL) | Portugal |
| Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre (LMTA) | Lithuania |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 Semester 1 | IADT, Dublin, Ireland | Core modules such as Acoustics & Psychoacoustics, Audio & Music Production, Interactive Systems, Sound Psychology, Synthesis & Sampling |
| Year 1 Semester 2 | Universidade Lusófona, Lisbon, Portugal | Film Sound Theory, Sound Ecosystems, Film Audio Post-production, Sound/Music Interface, Project Incubation |
| Year 1 Semester 3 | LMTA, Vilnius, Lithuania | Sound Concepts, Sound Design & Immersion, Sound and the Environment, Film Sound Practice, Thesis Preparation |
| Year 2 Semester 4 | Any partner institution | Master’s thesis or artistic/technological project |
| Optional Mobility | Internship or professional engagement | Subject to opportunity and partner arrangements |
Research and Industry Links
ReSound Erasmus Mundus integrates rigorous artistic research with industry exposure, fostering collaborations with creative sectors across Europe. Students engage in projects that connect sound design to film, games, immersive media, performance and interactive installation contexts, drawing on facilities such as Dolby Atmos studios, immersive media labs and experimental sound environments. The consortium’s connections within the FilmEU alliance amplify professional networks for graduates entering sound-oriented industries or pursuing further research.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the ReSound Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in sound, music, film, media studies, or closely related fields
- Strong academic record with relevant creative or technical competencies
- Portfolio of creative work in sound or media arts
- Proficiency in English demonstrated via recognized exams (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Motivation for studying sound design across cultural and creative contexts
Required Documents
To apply, candidates should prepare:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation letter
- Portfolio of previous sound/media work with reflections
- Passport identification copy
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proposal or description of intended thesis project
- Proof of English proficiency
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official ReSound Erasmus Mundus application portal on the programme website.
- Complete the online application form with personal, academic, and project details.
- Upload all required documents in English.
- Ensure referee contact details are provided for recommendation submission.
- Review and submit the application before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, attend an online interview focusing on motivation and portfolio discussion.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Selection and Review | February – March |
| Final Results Notification | April |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for ReSound Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering tuition and participation costs.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses under scholarship terms.
- Contributions toward travel and installation support.
- Access to industry events, workshops, and creative networks across partner countries.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Present a compelling portfolio that shows creative sound and media skills.
- Articulate motivation clearly, linking past work to future ambitions in sound design.
- Highlight adaptability to mobility across three European countries.
- Demonstrate collaboration and creative thinking in interdisciplinary projects.
- Ensure all documents are professionally presented and meet specified formats.
Alumni Experience
“ReSound provides a unique opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary environment and explore the boundaries of sound design in media arts. The mobility program gives students an immersive experience across different European institutions, making it truly a life-changing journey.”
[Former Erasmus Mundus Scholar]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ReSound Erasmus Mundus Joint Master?
It is a two-year master’s program focusing on sound design for media arts, involving three European universities and offering full Erasmus Mundus scholarships.
Who can apply for the ReSound Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
Anyone with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, English proficiency, and a strong portfolio in sound design can apply.
How much funding is provided by the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, and a monthly stipend to support living expenses.
What career opportunities are available after completing ReSound Erasmus Mundus program?
Graduates can work in film, television, music production, interactive media, game design, research, and academia.
Can I apply for ReSound Erasmus Mundus Program if I already have a master’s degree?
Yes, students with previous master’s degrees are eligible to apply.
How competitive is the selection process for ReSound Erasmus Mundus Program?
It is highly competitive, with only the best candidates being selected based on academic merit, portfolio quality, and motivation.
