MAGMa Erasmus Mundus Program in Managing Art & Cultural Heritage in Global Markets is a prestigious two-year Joint Master’s (EMJM) programme designed to prepare future leaders in the global art and cultural heritage sector. This degree equips students with interdisciplinary skills spanning art market economics, cultural heritage management, law, and marketing. Students study across multiple European institutions including University of Glasgow, ISCTE Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Universidade de Lisboa, IESA Arts and Culture Paris, and Erasmus University Rotterdam gaining a rich combination of theoretical knowledge and real-world experience.
The MAGMa Erasmus Mundus programme focuses on understanding contemporary challenges within the art and heritage industries, from legal and ethical issues in art markets to economic strategies for cultural institutions. Through mobility across Lisbon, Paris, Rotterdam, and optional Summer/Winter Schools in Glasgow and Mumbai, students engage with diverse cultural contexts while forging strong professional networks that support international careers in museums, galleries, auction houses, cultural policy agencies, and related fields.
Key Details of the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Managing Art & Cultural Heritage in Global Markets (MAGMa) |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at ISCTE Instituto Universitário de Lisboa and Universidade de Lisboa, Year 2 at IESA Arts and Culture Paris and Erasmus University Rotterdam, with online and optional Summer/Winter Schools at University of Glasgow |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding (MAGMa Erasmus Mundus Scholarship) |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
| Start Date | 01 September 2022 |
| End Date | 31 Octtober 2028 |
| Action Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in MAGMa Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| University of Glasgow | United Kingdom |
| ISCTE Instituto Universitário de Lisboa | Portugal |
| Universidade de Lisboa, Faculty of Humanities | Portugal |
| IESA Arts and Culture Paris | France |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | Netherlands |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Lisbon | Core modules delivered at ISCTE Instituto Universitário de Lisboa and Universidade de Lisboa, including art market theory, cultural heritage studies, and management foundations. |
| Year 2 | Paris & Rotterdam | Advanced study at IESA Arts and Culture Paris and Erasmus University Rotterdam, specialised modules in cultural economics, law, and strategic management + dissertation. |
| Optional Mobility | Glasgow or Mumbai | Summer/Winter Schools and short immersive programmes enhancing applied skills and networking opportunities. |
Research and Industry Links
The MAGMa Erasmus Mundus programme integrates academic rigour with access to professional environments in the global art and heritage sector. Students benefit from guest lectures, project collaborations, and mentorship from cultural institutions and partner organisations, including seasonal schools with the Smithsonian Institution and Tata Institute of Social Sciences. This multidisciplinary approach supports practised engagement with museums, galleries, and market professionals across Europe.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of upper second class (2:1) honours or equivalent in relevant fields (e.g., art history, economics, cultural heritage, law, management).
- Strong academic background with motivation for international cultural heritage careers.
- English language proficiency (official test scores required if English is not first language).
- Relevant work experience or professional engagement recommended for non-arts degrees.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter outlining academic and professional aims.
- Passport identification page.
- Academic or professional references.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official University of Glasgow MAGMa application portal.
- Create and fill in the application form with personal, academic, and background information.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Submit referee contact details for recommendation letters.
- Choose whether you are applying for Erasmus Mundus scholarship funding or self-funding.
- Review and submit before the published deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for potential interview or further evaluation stages.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Selection and Review | April |
| Final Results Notification | May |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for MAGMa Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ full scholarship covering tuition and participation costs.
- Monthly living stipend throughout the 2-year programme.
- Travel insurance and mobility support to each study destination.
- €33,600 total scholarship value to support tuition fees and living expenses.
- Access to cultural events, workshops, and international networks.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate your motivation for studying cultural heritage and art markets.
- Emphasise relevant academic achievements and professional experiences.
- Present concise, well-written personal statements and documentation.
- Demonstrate readiness to engage in multicultural and transnational learning.
- Seek feedback on application drafts and refine before submission.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus programme report enhanced capacities to work across international art markets, cultural management agencies, museums, and heritage organisations. The multiple degree structure and mobility experience expand professional networks that support roles in cultural policy, art investment, and institutional leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus program about?
The MAGMa program is a two-year Master’s degree that focuses on managing art and cultural heritage in global markets, blending cultural studies with management and policy.
Who can apply for the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus program?
Graduates with a background in humanities, social sciences, or cultural studies are encouraged to apply for the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus program.
Does the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus program offer scholarships?
Yes, the MAGMa program offers Erasmus+ funded scholarships that cover tuition, living allowance, and travel.
What careers can I pursue after completing the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus program?
Graduates of the MAGMa program can work in museums, cultural policy, international organizations, creative industries, and NGOs.
What is the mobility structure of the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus program?
Students of the MAGMa Erasmus Mundus program study across four European universities: in the UK, Netherlands, France, and Portugal.
