The MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus Masters Program in Public Policy is a prestigious two-year joint master’s degree designed to prepare future leaders in public policy practice, analysis, research, and governance. Delivered by a unique consortium of four leading European universities, the programme blends scholarly rigour with practical experience to equip students with the analytical, comparative, and problem-solving skills needed to engage with pressing transnational policy issues from governance and development to European integration and global public policy.
Established in 2007, MUNDUS MAPP stands out for its interdisciplinary curriculum, mobility options, and professional practice components such as internships, field visits, and policy labs. Students study across different European academic environments, enriching their understanding of public policy processes at global, national, and local levels while gaining exposure to diverse political systems and governance cultures.
Key Details of the MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Masters Program in Public Policy (MUNDUS MAPP) |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Central European University or International Institute of Social Studies, Year 2 at University of York or Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Comparative Public Policy, Governance & Development, European Public Policy, Global Policy |
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 MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of four leading European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Central European University (CEU) | Austria |
| International Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam (ISS) | Netherlands |
| Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI) | Spain |
| University of York | United Kingdom |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | CEU or ISS | Core modules in Public Policy theory, research methods, economics, policy analysis |
| Year 2 | University of York or IBEI | Advanced topics, track-specific courses, internships/study-trip and thesis (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | – | Internships, policy labs, practice components |
Research and Industry Links
The MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus programme integrates academic learning with direct policy-making experience. Students participate in internships at top international organizations, government bodies, NGOs, and research centres and engage in field trips and policy labs designed to connect theoretical insights with real-world public policy challenges. This blend of scholarly study and practical exposure enhances employability and professional networking opportunities.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus must satisfy the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree (min. 3 years or 180 ECTS, preferably in social sciences or related fields)
- Final diploma must be presented by the deadline
- Strong academic records and motivation for public policy study
- English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
- Capability to study and complete modules in different European contexts
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter tailored to track choice
- Two academic/professional recommendation letters
- Proof of residence (for funding eligibility)
- Passport identification page
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official MUNDUS MAPP website and open the application portal via CEU.
- Choose and apply for only one mobility track.
- Fill in all personal, academic, and motivational sections.
- Upload all required documents in English.
- Indicate if you wish to be considered for Erasmus+ scholarship funding.
- Review and submit before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for possible follow-up interviews.
Application Timeline 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | December |
| Application Deadline | January / February |
| Selection and Review | February–March |
| Final Results Notification | March–April |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Full Erasmus+ funding covering tuition and participation
- Monthly stipend (e.g., ~€1,400/month for 24 months)
- Travel and installation allowances
- Access to internships, field trips, and policy practice components
- Strong academic and professional network across four universities
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clarify your reasons for studying public policy internationally.
- Highlight relevant analytical, research, or policy internships.
- Align motivation with your chosen mobility track.
- Provide polished, error-free documentation.
- Seek insight from alumni or faculty if possible.
Alumni Experience
In September 2022, I graduated from Erasmus Mundus Masters Program in Public Policy – Mundus MAPP, track of Political Economy and Development. The first year at International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of Erasmus University Rotterdam and the second year at Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals. They were two years of extraordinary intensity that gave me experiences for which I will always be grateful. Getting to know and engage with people from all over the world on public policy issues allowed me to break out of the fixed patterns I was used to and made me see reality from new perspectives.
~Salvatore Delle Donne
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
The MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year joint master’s degree in public policy funded by the EU, offered by four top universities across Europe. It combines interdisciplinary academic training with real-world policy experience.
Can I apply to more than one track in the MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus Program
No, you must choose and apply to a single mobility track that best fits your interests and goals.
Is English proficiency mandatory for the MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, since the MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus Program is fully taught in English, applicants must submit a valid language test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
What documents are required for the MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus application?
Applicants must submit a degree certificate, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, CV, motivation letter, two references, and proof of residence.
What kind of degree do I receive after completing the MUNDUS MAPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates receive a joint or multiple degrees from the two universities where they completed their studies.
