The ASC Erasmus Mundus Program in Advanced Spectroscopy in Chemistry is a prestigious and academically rigorous two-year joint master’s degree designed for graduates who aspire to become international specialists in advanced spectroscopic techniques within modern chemistry. Delivered in collaboration with five leading European universities, the programme equips students with a deep theoretical foundation and practical expertise in cutting-edge spectroscopic methods applied across molecular synthesis, materials science, biology, and environmental chemistry. The ASC Erasmus Mundus fosters professional and research-oriented careers by combining multidisciplinary coursework with mandatory mobility across consortium institutions and access to world-class laboratories and facilities.
Since its inception in 2006, the ASC Erasmus Mundus has earned continuous Erasmus+ support and the esteemed Chemistry Euromaster® label for excellence, reflecting its commitment to high-quality education and international integration. Students graduate with multiple degrees and bilingual competencies, fully prepared for doctoral studies or roles in industry, research laboratories, and high-technology environments.
Key Details of the ASC Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Advanced Spectroscopy in Chemistry |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Multiple Master of Science Degrees (joint/multiple) |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at University of Lille & partner mobility; Year 2 at selected consortium institutions for specialization |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding (when available) and other fee waivers |
| Academic Focus | Advanced Spectroscopic Techniques, Chemical Analysis, Materials Characterization |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing (Erasmus Mundus funding period 2019–2026) |
| Start Date | 01 September 2019 |
| End Date | 31 August 2026 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in ASC Erasmus Mundus
The ASC Erasmus Mundus is jointly delivered by a consortium of five European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna | Italy |
| University of Helsinki | Finland |
| Jagiellonian University in Krakow | Poland |
| Leipzig University | Germany |
| University of Lille (Coordinator) | France |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | France (University of Lille) | Common core courses: Quantum Chemistry, NMR, Optical Spectroscopy, Mass Spectrometry, X-ray Diffraction, Professional Skills (30 ECTS) |
| Year 2 | Consortium partner universities | Elective advanced modules + internships/research + Master’s thesis (90 ECTS culminating in thesis) |
| Optional Mobility | Winter School & internships | Annual winter school; additional research/practical experience |
Research and Industry Links
The ASC Erasmus Mundus program boasts strong ties with 17 associated research and industrial partners, including global spectrometer manufacturers and large-scale facilities such as SOLEIL (France), ELETTRA (Italy), and SOLARIS (Poland). These partnerships enhance student exposure to advanced instrumentation and real-world applications of spectroscopy, bridging academic learning with professional and doctoral pathways.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the ASC Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics or equivalent.
- Proof of degree completion by the time of enrolment.
- Proficiency in English (minimum CEFR B2, e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
- Strong academic motivation towards spectroscopy and international mobility.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts.
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter demonstrating research and career goals.
- Two academic reference letters.
- Passport identification details.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official ASC Erasmus Mundus application portal on the programme’s website.
- Register and complete the online application form in English.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Provide referee contact information for recommendation letters.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Await selection results and next steps for enrolment.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | Febuary |
| Selection and Review | March |
| Final Results Notification | April |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for ASC Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ scholarships covering participation costs (when available).
- Monthly living stipend (up to €1000).
- Contribution to travel and installation costs.
- Partial fee waivers based on academic merit or financial need.
- Access to consortium resources, industrial links, and networking opportunities.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Highlight your motivation for pursuing spectroscopy and international research.
- Demonstrate laboratory experience or research potential.
- Ensure your English proficiency documentation meets requirements.
- Tailor your motivation letter to reflect intercultural adaptability.
- Reach out to alumni or faculty for insights into the selection process.
Alumni Experience
“With five different universities to choose from, you can choose exactly what you want to study. This is by no means an easy route to a Master’s degree, but it gives you a great foundation for an academic career and is particularly good for international networking. An experience like this is life-changing and I wouldn’t trade this opportunity for anything.”
~Heini Sundstrom (ASC 2021-2023)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ASC Erasmus Mundus Program?
A two-year, 120 ECTS joint Master’s in Advanced Spectroscopy in Chemistry, taught across five top European universities.
Who can apply to the ASC Erasmus Mundus Program?
BSc graduates in chemistry or related fields, with minimum B2 English and strong lab/research preparedness.
Does the ASC Erasmus Mundus Program offer scholarships?
Yes, Erasmus+ scholarships are available for early applicants; later rounds accommodate EU/EFTA scholarships and self-funded candidates.
What mobility tracks does the ASC Erasmus Mundus Program include?
All students start in Lille, then choose from partner universities in Semesters 2–3, and can conduct their thesis in different locations around the world.
What career paths follow the ASC Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates proceed to PhDs (~78%) or roles in chemical analysis and instrumentation, for example with L’Oréal R&D, BASF, Novartis, Agilent (~19%).

















