The EMLDS Erasmus Mundus European Master in Linguistic Data Science is an interdisciplinary two-year, 120 ECTS Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree designed to prepare graduates for international careers at the intersection of linguistics, computer science, and data science. By combining theoretical foundations with methodological and technical training, this programme fosters the ability to analyse and model large linguistic datasets, utilise computational tools and machine-learning methods, and address ethical, political and social implications of linguistic data analysis.
Offered collaboratively by a consortium of leading European universities, the EMLDS Erasmus Mundus programme promotes academic excellence through compulsory mobility across institutions and a broad curriculum that reflects both academic and professional demands in data-driven language research and applications. Successful completion awards a joint degree recognised across partner institutions, reflecting the high international standards of the Erasmus+ initiative.
Key Details of the EMLDS Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus European Master in Linguistic Data Science |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at selected partner universities, Year 2 at partner institutions with mobility paths |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding (EMJM scholarships) and self-funded options |
| Academic Focus | Linguistics, Computer Science, Data Science integration |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 October 2024 |
| End Date | 30 November 2030 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in EMLDS Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Universidade NOVA de Lisboa | Portugal |
| Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore | Italy |
| Universidad de Zaragoza | Spain |
| University of Galway | Ireland |
Programme Structure
The EMLDS curriculum comprises coursework, thematic training and a master’s research or project component, coupled with multiple mobility tracks.
| Year | Location & Academic Components |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | Coursework in Semester 1 and Semester 2 at partner universities with mobility schemes involving two or more countries |
| Year 2 | Thematic training in Semester 3 (rotating among partners) plus Semester 4 dissertation/internship/project at a partner of choice |
Research and Industry Links
The EMLDS Erasmus Mundus integrates academic study with engagement opportunities across industrial and research partners such as INRIA – National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology, Lexicala by K Dictionaries, Charles University, Priberam Informática, Semantic Web Company, Unbabel and Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. These collaborations enrich training through seminars, potential internships and exposure to real-world linguistic computing challenges.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the EMLDS Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (minimum 180 ECTS) completed by programme start
- Demonstrated proficiency in English (CEFR B2.2 or higher)
- Academic merit and/or relevant professional experience
- Strong motivation for interdisciplinary work across linguistics, data science, and computation
Required Documents
Documents typically required for EMLDS include:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Updated CV
- Motivation letter
- Letters of recommendation
- Copy of identification/passport
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official EMLDS application portal on the programme website.
- Create an account and start a new application.
- Complete personal, academic and background information sections.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Provide referee contact details for letters of recommendation.
- Review all fields and submit before the deadline.
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for evaluation questions or clarifications.
- Await final results notification.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November |
| Application Deadline | Febuary |
| Selection and Review | March |
| Final Results Notification | March-April |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for EMLDS Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Tuition fee exemption for EMJM scholarship holders
- Contribution to travel and living expenses for selected scholarship recipients
- Support and administrative assistance throughout the programme duration
- Access to training events and thematic seminars
- Membership in an international academic community
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Highlight multidisciplinary motivation for Linguistic Data Science.
- Emphasise strong analytical, computational and linguistic academic background.
- Tailor motivation letters to specific mobility track preferences and research goals.
- Secure strong recommendations reflecting academic potential and interdisciplinary readiness.
Alumni Experience
The way I imagined my life during EMLDS is nothing compared to what I am experiencing, it is giving me even more. I am constantly immersed in a truly multicultural environment, surrounded by people from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, and every single day I am growing, learning, and discovering new perspectives. I began my first semester in Italy at Università Cattolica, and the atmosphere there has been incredible. The professors are highly experienced, and I am learning how to meaningfully combine data science techniques with linguistics a whole new and exciting world for me. This academic journey, along with the amazing food and the warm, friendly people in Italy, made my first semester truly enjoyable.
Habiba Dewan Arpita
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the EMLDS Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
It is a fully funded scholarship covering tuition fees, travel, and a monthly stipend.
Can I apply if my degree is not in Linguistics or Data Science?
Yes! If you have a related background and a strong motivation for linguistic data science, you are encouraged to apply.
What does the EMLDS Erasmus Mundus scholarship cover?
It covers full tuition, travel expenses, and a monthly allowance.
How competitive is the selection process for EMLDS Erasmus Mundus?
Highly competitive! Only top-ranked candidates are selected.
What career opportunities are available after graduation in EMLDS Erasmus Masters?
Graduates can pursue careers in NLP, AI, computational linguistics, research, or data science.
