The SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program in Physiology and Medicine of Humans in Space and Extreme Environment is a highly specialised two-year joint master’s degree designed for students aiming to develop advanced expertise in human health, physiology, and medical challenges related to spaceflight and extreme environments. The SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus program combines biomedical sciences with applied space medicine, offering an international academic pathway that prepares graduates for careers in space agencies, research institutions, and medically demanding environments. Through integrated mobility, students experience diverse scientific perspectives while studying the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus program across Europe.
Launched as an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree, the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus has been developed to address the growing demand for specialists capable of understanding human adaptation to space and extreme terrestrial environments. The programme brings together interdisciplinary training in physiology, medicine, and space sciences, supported by an international academic consortium. With its strong research orientation and international structure, the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus program provides a rigorous academic foundation for students seeking advanced scientific and professional careers in space medicine and extreme environment health.
Key Details of the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program in Physiology and Medicine of Humans in Space and Extreme Environment |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Université de Caen Normandie (France) and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin (Germany), Year 2 at Mednarodna podiplomska šola Jožefa Stefana (Slovenia) for specialisation, followed by a Master’s thesis or internship at a partner or associated institution. |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding |
| Academic Focus | Physiology, space medicine, human health in space and extreme environments |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 November 2023 |
| End Date | 31 December 2029 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin | Germany |
| Université de Caen Normandie | France |
| Mednarodna podiplomska šola Jožefa Stefana | Slovenia |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 – Semester 1 | France (Université de Caen Normandie) | Core coursework in human physiology & extreme environments (evaluating effects of spaceflight and terrestrial stressors) during Semester 1, delivered in Caen. |
| Year 1 – Semester 2 | Germany (Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin) | Continued advanced modules in physiology and space medicine research in Berlin during Semester 2. |
| Year 2 – Semester 3 | Slovenia (Mednarodna podiplomska šola Jožefa Stefana) | Semester 3 studies focusing on specialised topics and research preparation in Ljubljana. |
| Year 2 – Semester 4 | Any Partner or Associated Institution | Semester 4 dedicated to the Master’s thesis and optional internship at a partner, associated or external institution. |
Research and Industry Links
The SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus program integrates academic learning with research-oriented training in physiology and space medicine. Students benefit from exposure to interdisciplinary scientific approaches related to human health in spaceflight and extreme environments. Research activities are closely aligned with the academic expertise of the consortium, supporting progression toward doctoral studies or research-based professional roles within the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus framework.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Academic background relevant to life sciences, medicine, or related fields
- Strong academic record and motivation for international study
- English language proficiency
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation letter
- Passport identification page
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus website and access the application portal
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Review the application carefully
- Submit before the official deadline
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | January |
| Selection and Review | Febuary |
| Final Results Notification | March |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding
- Tuition coverage
- Monthly living allowance:
- Travel and installation support
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate clear motivation for studying space medicine and human physiology
- Highlight relevant academic or research experience
- Emphasise interest in international and interdisciplinary training
- Ensure all documents are well-structured and academically sound
- Carefully follow official application instructions
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus program highlight the programme’s strong scientific foundation and international exposure. Alumni typically pursue careers in research, biomedical sciences, or continue to doctoral studies related to space medicine and extreme environment physiology, reflecting the academic depth of the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program unique?
It mixes high-level academic teaching with hands-on field labs and extreme environment analogues—plus a strong multicultural dimension across three countries.
Can I apply to the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program without an EMJMD scholarship?
Yes! Self-funded and employer-sponsored candidates are welcome, though competition is intense
What careers can I pursue after the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates become space health researchers, clinicians for astronauts/commercial crews, aerospace system engineers, or extreme-environment medical experts.
Is there a mobility requirement for the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program?
Absolutely, students travel to France, Germany, Slovenia, and complete their thesis at any partner or associated institution.
Can I apply to the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program if I haven’t finished my degree yet?
Yes, students in their final year can apply to the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program, provided they graduate before the program begins.
How competitive is the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program?
The SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program is highly competitive, with a limited number of scholarships awarded annually to top-ranked global candidates.
What kind of thesis topics are available in the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program?
Thesis projects in the SpaceMed Erasmus Mundus Program range from cardiovascular and musculoskeletal deconditioning to sleep research, cognitive performance, and space suit ergonomics.
