The MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Programme in Data Science of Human Multimodal Communication is a newly established and highly interdisciplinary Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) designed to prepare students for international careers at the intersection of language, cognition, communication and data science. Delivered through a structured combination of theory, lab methods, and computational techniques, the programme equips graduates with advanced skills to analyse human communicative behaviour speech, gesture, gaze, facial expression, prosody, and more—using state-of-the-art multimodal data science tools and frameworks. As a fully English-taught joint degree, it brings together world-class academic institutions and provides mobility across three European countries to foster cross-cultural understanding and research excellence in an emerging domain of human–computer and human–human interaction.
Initiated with European Union co-funding, the MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus programme leverages the complementary strengths of University of Murcia in Spain, Lund University in Sweden, and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg in Germany to offer an academically rigorous curriculum that blends linguistics, cognitive science, computational methods, and professional development. Unique to this programme is its focus on human multimodality in communicative contexts, the integration of large-scale data analysis, and active engagement with technological tools such as machine learning, eye tracking and body pose detection. The joint degree, consisting of 120 ECTS over four terms, includes coursework, lab projects, professional placements, and a thesis term that may be pursued across host universities or with associated partners worldwide.
Key Details of the MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Data Science of Human Multimodal Communication (MULTICOM) |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree (co-awarded) |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at University of Murcia & Lund University, Year 2 at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg / research placement |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and programme-specific financial aid |
| Academic Focus | Language & cognition, multimodal data science, computational analysis, research methods |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing (first edition scheduled) |
| Start Date | 01 October 2025 |
| End Date | 30 November 2031 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| University of Murcia | Spain |
| Lund University | Sweden |
| Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg | Germany |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 – Term 1 | Murcia, Spain | Introduction to Multimodal Data Science; core multimodal and computational methods modules |
| Year 1 – Term 2 | Lund, Sweden | Lab methods, language and multimodality, advanced theoretical and practical modules |
| Year 2 – Term 3 | Erlangen, Germany | Machine learning and multimodal corpora, professional project components |
| Year 2 – Term 4 | Flexible / thesis placement | Master’s thesis and professional development project |
Research and Industry Links
The MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus programme actively integrates academic learning with professional and research exposure through its consortium of associated partners across academia and industry. Students engage with professional projects, lab work and networking events alongside faculty experts from University of Murcia, Lund University, and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg. These collaborations extend into industry placements and opportunities to work with advanced multimodal technology initiatives, bridging theory and applied data science across sectors.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification completed by registration.
- Strong academic background in language, communication, cognitive science or a relevant field.
- Evidence of basic quantitative skills via coursework or demonstrable experience.
- Excellent command of English.
- Professional motivation for interdisciplinary research.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and full academic transcripts.
- Proof of quantitative background or equivalent experience.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- English language proficiency evidence.
- Motivation statement or video as specified.
- Passport identification page.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus website.
- Access the online pre-enrolment platform when open.
- Complete personal, academic and background details.
- Upload all required documents in English.
- Review application before final submission.
- Submit by the published deadline.
Application Timeline 2025–2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | March |
| Selection and Review | March–April |
| Final Results Notification | April–May |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering tuition and participation costs.
- Monthly stipend of approximately €1,400 for the full programme duration.
- Insurance and cultural activity support.
- Travel and relocation allowances as per eligibility.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate clear motivation for interdisciplinary research in multimodal communication.
- Highlight relevant academic projects or professional experience.
- Provide strong evidence of quantitative or computational experience.
- Submit well-prepared English documentation.
Alumni Experience
As the MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus programme is launching its first cohort in September 2026, alumni experience insights are not yet available on the official website. Future cohorts are expected to build strong professional networks given the programme’s interdisciplinary and international structure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus programme?
It is a two-year joint Master’s degree in Data Science of Human Multimodal Communication delivered by European universities.
Who can apply for MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus?
Applicants with a relevant bachelor’s degree and basic quantitative skills.
Does MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus offer scholarships?
Yes, Erasmus+ and programme-specific financial support is available.
What degree will I receive after the completion of MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus?
A joint Master’s degree co-awarded by University of Murcia, Lund University, and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg upon successful completion.
Is the MULTICOM Erasmus Mundus fully taught in English?
Yes. The language of instruction for the entire programme is English.
