The ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus Program in International Law of Security, Peace and Sustainable Development is a highly competitive two-year joint master’s degree designed for students seeking advanced expertise in international law, global security, peacebuilding, sustainability, and governance. The programme combines legal scholarship with interdisciplinary perspectives from international relations and security studies. Students complete their studies across multiple European universities, gaining academic and practical insight into contemporary international legal challenges through a structured mobility pathway.
Building on the success of the former ILGSPD Erasmus Mundus programme, ILSPSD is delivered by a consortium of leading European higher education institutions and supported through the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s initiative. The curriculum focuses on the relationship between international law, security, sustainable development, and human rights while preparing graduates for careers in international organisations, public institutions, academia, and the legal profession. Throughout the programme, students benefit from international mobility, multidisciplinary teaching, and research-led learning across several European countries.
Key Details of the ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in International Law of Security, Peace and Sustainable Development (ILSPSD) |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint/Multiple Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Leuphana University of Lüneburg and Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals, Year 2 at a selected partner university for thematic specialisation |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EMJM) Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | International Law, Security, Peace, Sustainable Development, Human Rights and Global Governance |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
| Start Date | 01 October 2025 |
| End Date | 30 November 2031 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of leading European universities.
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Leuphana University of Lüneburg | Germany |
| Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI) | Spain |
| University of Glasgow | United Kingdom |
| Université libre de Bruxelles | Belgium |
| Universidade NOVA de Lisboa | Portugal |
| University of Tartu | Estonia |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Semester 1 at Leuphana University of Lüneburg (Germany) | Core modules in International Law of Security, Peace and Sustainable Development, sustainability law, international economic law, and complementary studies |
| Year 1 | Semester 2 at Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (Spain) | Theories of International Security, research methods, security electives, interdisciplinary electives and thesis preparation |
| Year 2 | Semester 3 at a selected partner university | Students choose one specialisation track: International Law and International Security (University of Glasgow), Security and Conflict (Université libre de Bruxelles), Globalization, Law and Security (Universidade NOVA de Lisboa), or International Law and Human Rights (University of Tartu) |
| Year 2 | Semester 4 | Master’s dissertation completed at the Semester 3 partner university under academic supervision (30 ECTS) |
Research and Industry Links
The ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus programme combines advanced legal education with interdisciplinary research and practical engagement. Students participate in research-led teaching, project-based learning, seminars, law clinics, guest lectures, conferences, employability training, and international academic networks. The consortium is supported by an extensive group of associated partners that contribute research collaboration, professional expertise, and work placement opportunities in areas related to international law, security, peace, sustainability, and global governance.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Law or a closely related discipline such as International Relations, Political Science, Social Sciences, or another relevant field with a substantial legal component.
- Applicants in the final year of their bachelor’s studies may apply, provided they complete their degree before enrolment.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record and interest in international law, security, peace, and sustainable development.
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements through an accepted English language qualification or other approved evidence.
- Satisfy any additional academic requirements specified by the consortium during the admission process.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate (or proof of expected graduation)
- Official academic transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Copy of passport or national identity document
- Contact details or letters of recommendation, if requested during the application process
- Any additional supporting documents required by the consortium
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus website and access the online application portal.
- Create an applicant account.
- Complete the online application form with your personal and academic information.
- Upload all required documents in the prescribed format.
- Review your application carefully before submission.
- Submit your application before the published deadline.
- Monitor your email regularly for updates, document requests, or interview invitations, if applicable.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline* |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Eligibility and Academic Evaluation | January – February |
| Selection Results | March – April |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus Mundus scholarships for selected students funded by the European Union.
- Full participation cost coverage for scholarship recipients.
- Monthly living allowance throughout the study period in accordance with Erasmus Mundus funding rules.
- Travel and installation support for eligible scholarship holders.
- Opportunity to study at multiple European universities under the consortium’s mobility scheme.
- Access to international academic networks, research activities, conferences, and professional events.
- Joint supervision and academic support from leading European institutions.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate a clear academic interest in international law, security, peace, and sustainable development.
- Explain how the programme aligns with your long-term academic and professional goals.
- Highlight coursework, research, internships, or professional experience relevant to international law or related disciplines.
- Present evidence of strong analytical, research, and writing skills.
- Ensure your motivation letter is well-structured, specific to the programme, and supported by concrete examples.
- Submit complete and professionally prepared application documents before the deadline.
- Review all eligibility requirements carefully and ensure every required document meets the consortium’s specifications.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus programme develop expertise in international law, global security, peacebuilding, and sustainable development through an interdisciplinary and international learning environment. Alumni pursue careers in international organisations, governmental institutions, non-governmental organisations, research centres, legal practice, and academia, while many continue with doctoral studies in international law and related fields. The programme’s international mobility and consortium network provide valuable professional connections that support long-term career development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus programme?
It is a two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programme in International Law of Security, Peace and Sustainable Development delivered by a consortium of European universities.
Who can apply for the ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus programme?
Applicants holding a bachelor’s degree in Law or another relevant discipline with a suitable academic background may apply, provided they meet the programme’s eligibility and English language requirements.
Does the ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus offer scholarships?
Yes. The programme offers Erasmus Mundus scholarships funded by the European Union for selected applicants
What degree will I receive after completing the ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus?
Graduates receive a Joint/Multiple Master’s degree awarded by the participating consortium universities in accordance with the programme regulations.
How competitive is the ILSPSD Erasmus Mundus programme?
The programme is internationally competitive and attracts applicants from around the world. Admission is based on academic merit, eligibility, and the overall quality of the application.
