The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Aquaculture, Environment and Society-STAR is a two-year, 120 ECTS international master’s programme that prepares graduates to address scientific, technological and societal challenges in sustainable aquaculture. Delivered through an integrated curriculum and cross-country mobility, the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus emphasises both theoretical knowledge and practical capabilities needed for careers in research, industry, policy and environmental management. Students benefit from intensive academic immersion at three European centres of excellence and a dissertation or internship with international partners.
Founded to foster comprehensive expertise in aquatic food systems, environmental interactions and societal impact, the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus programme annually attracts a diverse cohort intent on shaping sustainable solutions for global aquaculture, ecosystem resilience and marine resource governance.
Key Details of the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Aquaculture, Environment and Society-STAR |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Scottish Association for Marine Science & University of the Highlands and Islands, Year 1 continued at University of Crete, Year 2 at University of Nantes with final dissertation/internship period |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding |
| Academic Focus | Sustainable aquaculture systems, environmental interactions, socio-economic and policy frameworks |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2022 |
| End Date | 31 October 2028 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus
The programme is delivered by a consortium of leading European institutions:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Scottish Association for Marine Science & University of the Highlands and Islands | United Kingdom |
| University of Crete | Greece |
| University of Nantes | France |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1, Semester 1 | United Kingdom | Core modules and foundation in aquaculture systems |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | Greece | Finfish aquaculture, environmental interactions |
| Year 2, Semester 3 | France | Shellfish aquaculture, advanced topics |
| Year 2, Semester 4 | Chosen partner or host | Dissertation or internship project |
| Optional Mobility | Affiliated partners | Extended practical experience or research collaboration |
Research and Industry Links
The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus programme links rigorous academic study to real-world industry demands through compulsory internships and dissertation placements embedded with industry or research partners. Students gain exposure to aquaculture enterprises, policy organisations and research laboratories, strengthening employability and professional networks across Europe’s aquaculture and marine science sectors.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree with honours or equivalent in biological, environmental or related sciences.
- Degree must include a dissertation or equivalent research component.
- English language proficiency with IELTS Academic (overall 6.5 with no component below 6.0) or equivalent.
- Motivation to work in sustainable aquaculture, environment and society.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter addressing career goals and relevance of the programme.
- One professional reference (500–800 words).
- Proof of English language ability.
- Copy of passport.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official ACES-STAR website and access the application portal.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Provide accurate referee contact information.
- Review and submit before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, attend an interview to assess motivation and fit.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Selection and Review | Febuary |
| Final Results Notification | March – April |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ fully funded scholarships covering tuition fees, insurance and living stipend (subject to funding availability).
- Fee-waiver scholarships where tuition and insurance are covered even when fully funded awards are unavailable.
- Monthly stipend of approximately €1,400 to support living costs for fully funded candidates.
- Additional allowances for travel and installation where applicable.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate a clear passion for sustainable aquaculture and its environmental context.
- Highlight research, volunteer or professional experience relevant to aquatic systems.
- Tailor the motivation letter to convey international and interdisciplinary motivation.
- Secure strong professional references emphasising potential and academic capability.
- Ensure all documents are clear, complete and aligned with requirements.
Alumni Experience
Being in ACES+ was amazing. I met the most amazing friends and had the best experiences. I learned a lot from all the people I had contact with and I know it has made me grow a lot. I’m sure this experience will stay with me forever, starting with the professors who have taught me so much during the last two years. I appreciate, greatly, this opportunity and I know that now I’m a better professional than I was before starting this master.
~Graciella Medina Madariaga
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program all about?
The ACES‑STAR Erasmus Mundus program is a two-year international Master’s focused on Aquaculture, Environment, and Society, offered by three top universities in the UK, Greece, and France.
Who is eligible to apply for the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program?
Anyone with a relevant Bachelor’s degree (in biology, environmental science, marine science, etc.) and proof of English proficiency can apply for the ACES‑STAR Erasmus Mundus program.
What does the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus scholarship cover?
The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus scholarship typically covers tuition fees, insurance, travel costs, and a monthly living allowance of approximately €1,400.
What documents are required to apply for the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program?
Applicants to the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program need academic transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter, two references, proof of English language skills, and sometimes a passport copy.
How competitive is the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program?
The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program is highly competitive, attracting students globally with academic excellence, motivation, and alignment with the program’s sustainability goals.
