The DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus Program in Documentary Filmmaking is a prestigious two-year joint master’s degree designed for emerging filmmakers who seek to develop strong artistic voices in documentary cinema within an international academic environment. DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus brings together leading European film institutions to offer rigorous practical training, critical reflection, and cross-cultural collaboration. Students study in multiple countries, engaging with diverse cinematic traditions while producing documentary films under the supervision of experienced professionals and academics.
Launched as an evolution of the long-standing DocNomads master’s course, the DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus framework strengthens its international dimension and industry integration. The programme combines intensive workshops, collaborative film production, theoretical seminars, and professional mentoring. Through structured mobility and intercultural teamwork, students refine their storytelling skills, explore contemporary documentary practices, and graduate with a portfolio of films created across different European contexts. The programme prepares graduates for careers in independent filmmaking, creative documentary production, and advanced artistic research.
Key Details of the DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Documentary Filmmaking – DocNomadsPlus |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 and Year 2 at Universidade Lusófona, National Film School (KIMO) at LMTA, and LUCA – School of Arts with sequential mobility Lisbon → Vilnius → Brussels |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and limited consortium awards |
| Academic Focus | Documentary theory and practice, cinematic aesthetics, creative research, professional fieldwork |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2025 |
| End Date | 31 October 2031 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of three leading European institutions:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Universidade Lusófona | Portugal |
| National Film School (KIMO) at the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre | Lithuania |
| LUCA – School of Arts | Belgium |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Portugal (Universidade Lusófona, Lisbon) | Core modules: Documentary filmmaking fundamentals, doc skills & teamwork, cinema & culture, documentary research & professional field projects (ECTS distributed across semester components) |
| Year 2 | Lithuania (National Film School, Vilnius) + Belgium (LUCA – School of Arts, Brussels) | Advanced filmmaking projects, documentary aesthetics, professional fieldwork, sound and contemporary practice, and the Graduation Film Project (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | — | Intensive workshops, internships, festival engagements and additional creative exercises |
Research and Industry Links
The DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus programme maintains strong ties to the documentary and film industry through collaborations with associated partners including film festivals, production houses, archives, cultural associations, and professional networks that provide guest lectures, masterclasses, networking opportunities, and access to industry events across Europe.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (minimum EQF Level 6), typically in Film Studies, Audiovisual Arts, Media, Communication or related fields, or an alternative field with a convincing artistic portfolio.
- Portfolio of creative work demonstrating artistic potential.
- English language proficiency (official certifications accepted).
- Motivation towards documentary filmmaking.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts.
- Artistic portfolio (films, creative projects).
- CV/Resume.
- English language test certificate (if required).
- Passport copy.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official DocNomadsPlus application portal.
- Create an applicant profile and access the online form.
- Upload required documents and artistic portfolio.
- Review and submit your application before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for possible interviews or creative assessment.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 20 October 2025 for the 2026 start (scholarship call until 20 January 2026) |
| Application Deadline | Scholarship: 20 January 2026; Self-funded: 15 April 2026 |
| Selection and Review | May |
| Final Results Notification | June |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering participation costs/tuition for selected candidates.
- Monthly stipend of approximately €1,400 for living and mobility support for scholarship holders.
- Access to film equipment, studios, and professional infrastructure.
- Insurance and administrative support provided by the consortium.
- Possibilities for additional local or external scholarships.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate a passionate and coherent motivation for documentary filmmaking.
- Present a high-quality artistic portfolio.
- Highlight any practical filmmaking experience or related creative projects.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus are recognised for their creative portfolios and professional readiness, with alumni films frequently selected and awarded at international film festivals. Many alumni proceed to work as documentary directors, producers, editors, or festival programmers and some pursue advanced academic or artistic careers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus programme about?
The programme is a two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Documentary Filmmaking delivered across Portugal, Lithuania, and Belgium. It combines artistic practice, film theory, and international mobility, allowing students to develop and produce documentary projects in multiple cultural contexts.
How competitive is the DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus programme?
The programme is highly competitive, attracting applicants from around the world with strong creative portfolios. Selection is primarily based on artistic potential, portfolio quality, academic background, and motivation.
Who is eligible to apply for the DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus programme?
Applicants must hold a recognised bachelor’s degree (EQF Level 6 or equivalent). While film-related backgrounds are common, candidates from other fields may apply if they present a convincing artistic portfolio and demonstrate clear motivation for documentary filmmaking.
What kind of scholarship does the DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus programme offer?
Selected students may receive Erasmus+ scholarships covering participation costs and including a monthly stipend for living and mobility expenses.
What career opportunities are available after completing the DocNomadsPlus Erasmus Mundus programme?
Graduates typically pursue careers as documentary directors, producers, editors, cinematographers, festival programmers, or continue into doctoral or artistic research pathways.
