The EMGS Erasmus Mundus Master in Global Studies is a two-year international Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree designed for students eager to explore globalisation from historical, cultural, political, and socio-economic angles through a critical interdisciplinary lens. Delivered in collaboration by a consortium of distinguished European higher education institutions, EMGS equips graduates with the analytical tools to understand and navigate the complexities of global interconnectedness, from comparative regional studies to transnational processes. .
EMGS blends rigorous academic coursework with mobility across multiple countries, enhancing students’ cultural fluency and methodological versatility. The programme’s structure, built on historical and comparative approaches, fosters critical thinking about global phenomena and prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to research, policy, and practice in global contexts. With opportunities to spend part of the study period at non-European partner universities, participants gain invaluable exposure to diverse intellectual traditions and research environments.
Key Details of the EMGS Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Master in Global Studies (EMGS) |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at a selected European university, Year 2 at another selected European university for specialisation |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Interdisciplinary study of globalisation, global history, transnational processes, comparative global studies |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 October 2023 |
| End Date | 30 November 2029 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in EMGS Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by the following European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Leipzig University | Germany |
| University of Vienna | Austria |
| University of Wrocław | Poland |
| Roskilde University | Denmark |
| Ghent University | Belgium |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | One selected European partner university | Core modules in Global Studies including Global History, Theories of Globalisation, Comparative Area Studies, Transnational Processes, and Interdisciplinary Research Methodologies |
| Year 2 | A different European partner university chosen for specialisation | Advanced thematic modules aligned with the host university’s strengths, regional or thematic specialisation, and Master’s thesis (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Non-European partner university or approved host institution | Optional study period, research stay, or academic mobility outside Europe (subject to availability and approval) |
Research and Industry Links
The EMGS Erasmus Mundus programme maintains strong academic and research links with global partner institutions such as Dalhousie University (Canada), Macquarie University (Australia), University of California, Santa Barbara (USA), Stellenbosch University (South Africa), Fudan University (China), Jawaharlal Nehru University (India), University of Otago (New Zealand), Addis Ababa University (Ethiopia) and University of Yaoundé I (Cameroon), allowing students to engage in transdisciplinary research, summer and winter schools, and comparative regional studies outside Europe.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the EMGS Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in humanities or social sciences (or equivalent) with relevant coursework.
- Excellent command of English, proven by standardized test scores or equivalent documentation.
- Knowledge of another foreign language at minimum A2 level (CEFR).
- Strong academic record and motivation for interdisciplinary global studies.
- Official transcripts, diplomas and proof of nationality/residence.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English.
- Motivation letter.
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Proof of another language proficiency at A2 level.
- Passport identification page and proof of residence.
- Academic or professional reference letters.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official EMGS programme website and open the application portal.
- Complete personal, academic and background information.
- Upload required documents in PDF format (in English or with certified translations).
- Submit referee contact information and ensure recommendations are uploaded.
- Verify and submit your application before the deadline.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | January |
| Scholarship Application Deadline | February |
| Self-Funded Application Deadline | May |
| Selection & Review | June |
| Final Results Notification | July |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for EMGS Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ scholarships covering full participation costs and providing a generous monthly living allowance (approx. €1,400).
- Coverage of basic medical insurance under Erasmus+ scheme.
- Additional regional scholarships prioritising students from Least Developed Countries and other regions.
- Opportunities to join academic conferences, research schools and global academic networks.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate your motivation to study global phenomena with interdisciplinary rigour.
- Highlight academic achievements and relevant coursework or research experience.
- Demonstrate intercultural experience or international engagement.
- Ensure language proficiency and supporting documents exceed minimum requirements.
- Seek feedback from alumni or academic mentors before submission.
Alumni Experience
After two amazing years in the Global Studies program, I stayed in Vienna and became involved in human rights and migratory affairs. Now I work for the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) as a Project Manager. Since my graduation, EMGS has continued to be an important part of my life, as I’ve remained involved in the program’s impressive alumni network.
~Ross Goodman-Brown
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
A two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Global Studies, spanning multiple countries and academic disciplines.
Can I do the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program without German?
Yes, English is the main language. Local language courses are optional
Can I apply to EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program if I graduate after deadline?
Yes, upload transcripts. Final diploma can be submitted in first semester
Must I apply separately to each university in EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
No, all applications go through Leipzig University; just indicate preferred universities .
Do I need a background in Global Studies to apply for the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
No, but related fields like social sciences or humanities are preferred.
What degree do I earn after completing the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
A joint or multiple master’s degree, depending on your mobility track.
