The EMMA Erasmus Mundus program is a highly competitive two-year joint master’s degree designed for students who aim to build international careers in journalism, media studies, public communication, and global affairs. This academic track combines theoretical grounding with hands-on reporting experience and exposure to global newsrooms and diverse political environments. Students study in multiple countries, enabling them to understand journalism from various cultural and socio-political lenses.
Launched in 2005, EMMA Erasmus Mundus has evolved into one of Europe’s most prestigious journalism programs. It brings together world-leading academic institutions to prepare graduates capable of reporting, analysing, and interpreting global news issues. The program is structured to enhance students’ exposure to crisis journalism, political communication, media systems, and cross-cultural reporting. Its international mobility and research-based curriculum make it a strong choice for aspiring journalists seeking a global professional advantage.
Key Details of the EMMA Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Masters in Journalism, Media and Globalisation |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Aarhus University and Danish School of Media and Journalism, Year 2 at a selected partner university for specialisation |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Crisis and Conflict, Politics and Communication, Totalitarianism and Transition, Cultures and Contexts |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2019 |
| End Date | 31 August 2025 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in EMMA Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of leading European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Aarhus University | Denmark |
| Danish School of Media and Journalism | Denmark |
| University of Amsterdam | Netherlands |
| Charles University Prague | Czech Republic |
| City, University of London | United Kingdom |
| Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich (LMU) | Germany |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Denmark (Aarhus University + Danish School of Media and Journalism) | Core modules: Digital Journalism, Public Opinion and Media, Journalism and Cultural Globalisation, Research Methodology |
| Year 2 | One partner university chosen based on specialisation | Advanced modules and thematic study + dissertation (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Additional semester or internship | Study abroad option or professional internship |
Research and Industry Links
The EMMA Erasmus Mundus program integrates academic learning with industry exposure. Students may complete internships in media houses, NGOs, think tanks, or policy organisations. The consortium collaborates with partner institutions such as UC Berkeley, University of Technology Sydney, and Fudan University for global exchange opportunities. Alumni often join international news organisations, research institutes, media consulting firms, or pursue PhD research linked to media theory and globalisation.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the EMMA Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification (all disciplines accepted)
- Final diploma must be submitted before 01 August of the intake year
- Minimum 3 months of documented journalism-related experience including student journalism
- Strong academic background and international motivation
- English language proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent test
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
- Motivation letter
- Documentation of journalistic experience
- Passport identification page
- Reference contact details and referee-submitted recommendation letters
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official Mundus Journalism website and open the application portal
- Fill in personal, academic, and background details
- Upload all required PDF documents in English
- Submit referee contact information so references are uploaded by referees
- Review the application before submission
- Submit before the published deadline
- If shortlisted, prepare for an interview with a focus on motivation and communication skills
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Selection and Review | February |
| Final Results Notification | March |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for EMMA Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering tuition and participation
- Living stipend depending on eligibility
- Travel support and installation allowance for non-EU residents
- Consortium scholarship awards of EUR 10,000 available for top-ranked candidates
- Access to academic events, conferences and network programmes
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Present clear motivation for studying journalism in an international context
- Emphasise journalistic achievements or media-related projects
- Include high-quality writing samples or portfolio pieces
- Demonstrate readiness to work in multicultural environments
- Reach out to alumni for insight into interview expectations
- Ensure documents are professionally written and error-free
Alumni Experience
Graduates describe the EMMA Erasmus Mundus as transformative, citing multicultural exposure and access to a global journalism network as key strengths. Alumni work in international news agencies, media analysis companies, political think tanks, NGOs and continue to pursue doctoral studies. The professional network built through the programme often becomes central to long-term career success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the EMMA Erasmus Mundus program?
It is a two-year joint master’s degree in Journalism, Media and Globalisation delivered by European universities.
Who can apply for the EMMA Erasmus Mundus?
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree and at least three months of journalism-related experience.
Does the EMMA Erasmus Mundus offer scholarships?
Yes, Erasmus+ financial support and consortium scholarships are available.
What degree will I receive after completing the EMMA Erasmus Mundus?
A joint master’s degree awarded by Aarhus University and the chosen specialisation institution.
How competitive is the EMMA Erasmus Mundus?
Approximately 400 to 500 applicants compete each year for fewer than 100 seats.
