The emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Master Program in Plant Breeding is an internationally oriented two-year joint master’s degree designed to equip students with comprehensive scientific and practical skills in plant breeding, biotechnology, seed technology, genetics, and related disciplines. Delivered by a consortium of leading European universities, this programme prepares graduates to address global challenges such as food security, climate change adaptation, and sustainable crop improvement through an integrated curriculum spanning traditional breeding methods, modern molecular tools, data analytics, and project management.
Launched to respond to the urgent need for highly qualified plant breeders capable of working in research institutes, seed companies, public breeding programmes, and policy environments worldwide, emPLANT+ builds on a strong tradition of collaborative education in plant sciences. Graduates emerge with deep expertise in scientific principles and industry-relevant competencies that are essential in both public and private sectors. Membership in a vibrant network of institutions and associated partners further enhances employability and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities for students.
Key Details of the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Master in Plant Breeding (emPLANT+) |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English and Spanish (varies by host university) |
| Study Model | Year 1 at UniLaSalle, SLU or MATE; Year 2 at BOKU, UMIL, UPV or UniLaSalle (mobility tracks) |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding (for eligible intakes) |
| Academic Focus | Plant breeding, genetics, biotechnology, seed science, data analytics, management & law |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing (emPLANT+ funded 2020–2026) |
| Start Date | 01 September 2020 |
| End Date | 31 August 2026 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in emPLANT Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Institut Polytechnique UniLaSalle (ULS) | France |
| Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) | Hungary |
| The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) | Sweden |
| University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) | Austria |
| Università degli Studi di Milano (UMIL) | Italy |
| Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) | Spain |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | ULS, SLU or MATE | Core modules in plant breeding science, genetics, statistics, seed technology and foundational skills (60 ECTS) |
| Year 2 | BOKU, UMIL, UPV or ULS | Advanced specialization courses, research projects and master’s thesis (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Internship or field experiences | Summer breeding field camp, workshops, additional placements |
Research and Industry Links
The emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Master in Plant Breeding integrates rigorous academic instruction with strong links to the seed industry, research institutes, and professional organisations across Europe. The consortium maintains relationships with over 20 associated partners, providing opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, guest lectures, and field experiences that align with current industry needs and research trends.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Master in Plant Breeding should meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (minimum 180 ECTS) in Agriculture, Agronomy, Plant Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biosciences or closely related fields
- Strong foundational knowledge in relevant sciences and quantitative methods
- English proficiency (and Spanish where applicable) at the required level
Required Documents
- Official bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
- Proof of language proficiency (English/Spanish)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Passport identification page
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official programme website and open the online application portal.
- Complete personal, academic, and background information.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format (in English or Spanish as specified).
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- Await selection outcomes and follow further instructions for enrolment if accepted.
Application Timeline 2026 and 2028 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | Mid-January (first call), end-February (second call) |
| Selection and Review | February–March |
| Final Results Notification | March |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering participation costs for eligible intakes (when available)
- Travel contribution and insurance support (subject to funding rules)
- Monthly stipends depending on eligibility category
- Consortium scholarships for international students (if applicable)
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate clear motivation for advanced study in plant breeding.
- Highlight scientific coursework and practical experience relevant to the field.
- Ensure language certificates and academic transcripts are complete and professionally presented.
- Prepare a compelling CV that reflects international ambitions and research interests.
- Engage referees who can attest to your academic potential.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Master in Plant Breeding report enhanced scientific expertise and international exposure, often leading to roles in R&D, seed industry leadership, public breeding programmes, and doctoral research. Alumni value the programme’s multidisciplinary approach and extensive professional network.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program?
The emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year Joint Master Degree in Plant Breeding coordinated by six European universities. It combines advanced training in breeding, biotechnology, law, and intercultural communication
How does student mobility work in the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program?
In the emPLANT Program, students spend Year 1 in either France, Sweden, or Hungary, and Year 2 in Spain, Austria, or Italy depending on their specialization track.
How can I apply for the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applications for the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program are submitted online via the official website, with two calls: the first (Oct–Jan) includes scholarship eligibility, and the second (Jan–Feb) is for self-funded candidates.
What are the admission requirements for the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program?
To enter the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program, applicants need a Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS minimum) in agricultural or related sciences, with solid knowledge in genetics, statistics, chemistry, physics, plant sciences, and breeding.
What makes the emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program unique compared to other plant breeding programs?
The emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Program is unique because it integrates scientific, managerial, and legal aspects of plant breeding, while requiring mobility across multiple top universities in Europe.
