The Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programme in Theatre in Social, Participatory Art, Community and Educational Contexts is an internationally integrated two-year (24-month) Master of Arts designed for students passionate about applying theatre practices meaningfully within societal, educational, and community settings. Delivered by a consortium of European institutions, this EMJM curriculum combines rigorous theoretical engagement with practical, fieldwork-oriented experiences across several countries, aiming to prepare graduates for artistic, research and professional contributions in applied theatre.
This interdisciplinary Masters degree brings together expertise from leading universities to equip students with insights into participatory artistic methods, social impact through theatre, and trans-cultural practice. The programme’s mobility requirement enables study and collaboration in diverse cultural contexts, fostering innovative thinking and adaptive skills. Upon successful completion of the Theatre SPACEs degree (120 ECTS), graduates receive a joint Master’s diploma recognised by all consortium partners
Key Details of the Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Theatre in Social, Participatory Art, Community and Educational Contexts |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Year 2 at partners for thematic progression |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding (EMJM) |
| Academic Focus | Applied theatre in community, social, educational and participatory contexts |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2025 |
| End Date | 31 October 2031 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Western Norway University of Applied Sciences | Norway |
| Trinity College Dublin | Ireland |
| University of Arts Târgu Mureș | Romania |
| University of Hamburg (associated partner) | Germany |
| The Academy of Performing Arts in Prague (associated partner) | Czech Republic |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 – Semester 1 | Bergen, Norway | Introduction to drama and theatre pedagogy; Art and research (30 ECTS) |
| Year 1 – Semester 2 | Bergen & Fieldwork | Performative practices in transcultural contexts; Theatre in social, health and community contexts (30 ECTS) |
| Summer School | Dublin, Ireland | Drama in Education and dissertation preparation (non-ECTS summer component) |
| Year 2 – Semester 3 | Târgu Mureș, Romania | Theatre in Education (30 ECTS) |
| Year 2 – Semester 4 | Online & Fieldwork | MA Dissertation (30 ECTS) |
Research and Industry Links
The Theatre SPACEs programme actively connects academic study with real-world applied theatre practice through field visits, participatory workshops and artistic research involving community, cultural and social partners worldwide. This structure supports students in building professional networks across educational institutions, social organisations, theatres, NGOs and community initiatives, and prepares candidates for advanced research or professional careers in participatory arts and cultural engagement.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 180 ECTS) in relevant fields such as Education, Arts and Humanities, Psychology, Sociology, Cultural Studies, Journalism and related social sciences.
- Minimum average grade equivalent to C (“Good”) in undergraduate qualification.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Curriculum Vitae.
- Motivation statement.
- Passport copy.
- Any additional documents required by Søknadsweb application portal.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the Søknadsweb application portal via the Theatre SPACEs/HVL official site.
- Register and select “Erasmus Mundus Joint Master,” then choose Theatre SPACEs.
- Complete personal, academic and background information.
- Upload all required PDF documents.
- Review and submit your application before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for competitive evaluation by written assessment and potential interview.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | December |
| Selection & Review | January |
| Final Results | Febuary |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ EMJM scholarship of €1,400 per month for 24 months, helping to cover travel, visa and living expenses.
- Tuition fee exemption for selected candidates.
- Opportunities to study and conduct research across multiple European contexts.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate clear motivation for engaging with applied theatre in social and community contexts.
- Highlight relevant academic background or artistic practice.
- Provide strong personal statement and CV.
- Prepare to articulate research interests and artistic engagement.
Alumni Experience
While the first cohort of the Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus programme begins in September 2026, the structure and international mobility of the degree are designed to produce highly capable graduates ready to make an impact in applied theatre. Future alumni are expected to work as community theatre facilitators, drama educators, social arts researchers, and participatory art practitioners across Europe and globally. Many are likely to join NGOs, cultural institutions, educational programmes, and interdisciplinary research projects that use theatre to drive social engagement and educational innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus programme?
It is a two-year joint Master’s degree focusing on theatre practices applied to social, educational, community and participatory art contexts.
Who can apply for the Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus?
Applicants with a relevant Bachelor’s degree and English proficiency from any country are eligible.
Does Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus offer scholarships?
Yes, Erasmus+ EMJM scholarships of €1,400/month for 24 months are available to top candidates.
What degree will I receive after completing Theatre SPACEs Erasmus Mundus?
Upon successful completion of all four semesters (120 ECTS), students receive a joint Master’s degree awarded by the consortium universities.
