The SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus Programme in Sustainable Information Technologies for Societies is a two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree that prepares students to design, evaluate, and implement digital technologies that contribute to sustainable, equitable, and citizen-centered societies. This interdisciplinary programme emphasises artificial intelligence, data-driven decision-making, sustainability principles, and participatory design methods, blending academic rigour with real-world project-based learning. Graduates from the programme are equipped to operate at the intersection of technology, ethics, and society, ready to address complex challenges in digital transformation, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion across international contexts.
Developed under the Sustainable Information Technologies for Societies (SITeS) project, the SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus builds on collaborative strengths of leading European universities to foster inclusive quality education that reflects the European Skills and Digital Education Agendas. Students benefit from mobility across three countries and academic environments, learning through hybrid pedagogies, interdisciplinary modules, and engagement with industry and societal partners.
Key Details of the SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in Sustainable Information Technologies for Societies (SITeS-JM) |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Tallinn University and Tampere University, Year 2 at Lusófona University with interdisciplinary mobility |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | AI and Data Science, Sustainable Digital Societies, Active Citizenship, participatory design methods |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 31 October 2023 |
| End Date | 31 December 2029 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Tallinn University | Estonia |
| Tampere University | Finland |
| Lusófona University | Portugal |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Estonia (Tallinn University) & Finland (Tampere University) | Core modules in AI, data science, sustainable digital societies and participatory design |
| Year 2 | Portugal (Lusófona University) | Interdisciplinary project-based courses, professional placement and Master’s thesis |
| Optional Mobility | Additional semester or internship | Hybrid learning and research with real clients |
Research and Industry Links
The SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus programme integrates academic learning with practical engagements through collaborations with societal NGOs, municipalities, and industry partners such as Citizen OS, Estonian Anthropocene Center, Lääne-Harju municipality, and Inspirators!, offering students opportunities to apply theory in real-world project settings that focus on sustainable digital solutions and participatory citizen engagement.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus must meet the following programme criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised institution
- Proficiency in English (evidence of test scores or equivalent)
- Motivation and interest in topics related to AI, sustainability, or digital society challenges
- Background in computing, social sciences, environmental studies, design, or related fields encouraged (but not strictly limited)
- Any additional criteria as specified on the official application portal
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official academic transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter tailored to digital sustainability and societal impact
- Passport identification page
- Any other documents mandated by the program application portal
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- isit the official AISS programme website and open the application portal.
- Complete personal, academic, and background sections.
- Upload all required PDF documents in English.
- Review and submit the application before the stated deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for additional assessments or interviews as indicated by the programme.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | December |
| Application Deadline | February |
| Selection and Review | March |
| Final Results Notification | April |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ scholarship covering tuition fee waiver and monthly stipend up to €1400 for 24 months
- Travel and installation allowance depending on eligibility
- Support for research, conferences and field-based activities
- Tuition fee waiver for scholarship holders
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate your motivation for sustainable information technologies and societal impact.
- Demonstrate interdisciplinary thinking and project experience.
- Align your academic and professional goals with the programme aims in AI, data science, and digital citizenship.
- Ensure your documents are professionally presented and error-free.
- Highlight any relevant community, NGO, or research involvement.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus programme describe the experience as highly enriching, emphasising the value of international exposure and the interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum that bridges technology and societal needs. Alumni often move into roles involving ethical AI design, digital inclusion strategy, sustainable innovation, or continue academic research in AI and society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the SITeS-JM Erasmus MundusProgram?
It’s the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s program in Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Societies, promoting ethical and sustainable tech.
Who should apply for the SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus Program?
Students or professionals with backgrounds in IT, social sciences, environmental studies, design, or related fields.
Does the SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus Program offer scholarships
Yes, up to 10 full scholarships covering tuition and living costs each intake
How many degrees do you earn in the SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus Program?
You graduate with three degrees, MA from Tallinn, MSc from Lusófona, and MA/MSC from Tampere—depending on institutio
Can non-EU students apply to the SITeS-JM Erasmus Mundus Program?
Absolutely. The program is global and welcomes international applicants through the EMJM framework.
