The PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Master Degree in Plant Health in Sustainable Cropping Systems is a prestigious two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) designed by leading European universities to prepare highly skilled professionals capable of addressing global challenges in plant health, sustainable agriculture, and crop protection. This programme combines rigorous scientific training with practical experience including fieldwork, laboratory research, workshops, and international mobility, so graduates are ready to contribute to food safety, ecosystem management, and sustainable cropping systems worldwide. One of its core strengths is the double degree awarded by two partner universities upon successful completion of the curriculum.
Structured across 120 ECTS credits, the PlantHealth programme offers a unique blend of interdisciplinary coursework, mobility in diverse agro-ecological settings, and specialised training through defined thematic tracks, fostering academic excellence and professional versatility in the rapidly evolving field of plant health.
Key Details of the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Master in Plant Health in Sustainable Cropping Systems |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English (French for some courses in France) |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Universitat Politècnica de València or Università di Padova, Year 2 at a selected partner from the consortium |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Programme Scholarships (subject to availability) |
| Academic Focus | Sustainable agriculture, integrated pest management, crop protection science, epidemiology, molecular biology, ecology |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 November 2023 |
| End Date | 31 December 2028 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus
The programme is delivered by a consortium of esteemed European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) | Spain |
| Università di Padova (UNIPD) | Italy |
| University of Göttingen (UGOE) | Germany |
| L’Institut Agro | France |
| AgroParisTech | France |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| M1 (Year 1) | Spain or Italy | Core modules: sustainable farming systems, crop protection, molecular biology, ecology, statistics (first-year academic foundation) |
| M2 (Year 2) | Selected partner (Germany, Spain, Italy or France) | Specialisations in integrated pest management, advanced plant health topics + Master thesis (60 ECTS) |
| Optional Mobility | Additional semester or internship | International fieldwork, research stays, professional experience |
Research and Industry Links
The PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus programme maintains strong connections with research institutes, agricultural organisations, and companies across Europe involved in crop protection and sustainable agriculture. Students benefit from expert guest lecturers, collaborative projects, field-based learning, and potential opportunities for internships and applied research, preparing them for international roles in research, industry, regulatory bodies, or advanced academic study.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria (based on official admissions information):
- Bachelor of Science degree (180 ECTS) in Agronomy, Agricultural Sciences or related field with at least 4 ECTS in Plant Health/Crop Protection
- Proof of English proficiency at B2 level (CEFR) or equivalent, unless native English speaker
- Two reference letters
- Completed application through the online platform
- Final diploma must be presented before enrolment
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae
- Two recommendation letters
- Declaration on honour
- Other supporting documents (e.g., publications, refugee status evidence)
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official PlantHealth application portal on the programme website and create an account.
- Complete all personal, academic, and mobility preference sections in English.
- Upload required documents in PDF format.
- Provide referee contact details for recommendation letters.
- Review your application carefully before submission.
- Submit before the deadline; only complete applications are considered.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | Febuary |
| Selection and Review | March |
| Final Results Notification | March |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ joint master scholarship covering participation costs
- Tuition and compulsory academic charges covered for scholarship holders
- Health and accident insurance throughout the programme
- Support services for mobility, visa procedures, orientation and language courses
- Field trips and academic event participation included
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate your motivation for studying plant health in an international context.
- Highlight relevant scientific background or research experience.
- Provide high-quality academic references with detailed evaluations.
- Demonstrate readiness for mobility and working in multicultural environments.
- Ensure all documents are error-free and professionally presented.
Alumni Experience
During the past two years a new life cycle would start for me. As a PlantHealth student I learned not just about agriculture, pesticides, biological control… but also about myself. Leaving far from home with these amazing people from different corners of the world, chasing the same objectives, sharing knowledge and friendship… All of this was a life-changing experience in so many ways. I would like to thank all the professors from Universität Göttingen and Politècnica de València as well as all the PlantHealth staff for making this project happen. I hope this network gets even bigger and we keep the same enthusiasm and brilliance from our master professors and mentors in our professional life.
~MATHEUS CARDIM
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program and who is it for?
The PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year joint master’s degree designed for students with a background in plant sciences, agronomy, biology, or related fields who are interested in sustainable crop protection and plant health management.
What are the benefits of joining the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program?
The PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program offers a double master’s degree, mobility between top European universities, hands-on fieldwork, research opportunities, internships, and strong career prospects in academia, research, and the agro-industry.
What are the admission requirements for the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program?
To apply for the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program, you must hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as agriculture, biology, or plant sciences), demonstrate English proficiency, and submit academic transcripts, a CV, letters of recommendation, and a motivation letter.
How competitive is admission to the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program?
Admission to the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on academic excellence, motivation, references, and alignment with the program’s goals.
Can I apply to the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program while still completing my bachelor’s degree?
Yes, final-year students can apply to the PlantHealth Erasmus Mundus Program as long as they complete their degree before the start of the program and provide proof of pending graduation.
