The EMGS Erasmus Mundus (Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Global Studies) is a distinguished two-year, interdisciplinary master’s program that empowers students to analyze globalization through history, politics, economics, cultural studies, and beyond. Backed by a consortium of top-tier European universities Leipzig, Vienna, Wrocław, Ghent, Roskilde—this EMJMD equips graduates for impactful careers in academia, international orgs, NGOs, policy, and intercultural fields. Students enjoy immersive learning, small seminar settings, and vibrant intellectual discourse enriched by joint winter and summer schools .
Thanks to continuous funding waves from 2005 to 2023—the EMGS offers Erasmus Mundus scholarships to both EU and non-EU students, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel . Students partake in thought-provoking research, hands-on projects, and the flexibility to spend a term outside Europe in partner universities across Canada, China, India, South Africa, and more
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-10-2023
- End date 30-11-2029
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The EMGS Erasmus Mundus program lets students study at top European universities, exploring global studies through a multidisciplinary lens.
| Ghent University |
| Leipzig University |
| Roskilde University |
| University of Vienna |
| University of Wrocław |
| Belgium |
| Germany |
| Denmark |
| Austria |
| Poland |
This cross-border collaboration allows students to gain an international perspective while studying and researching in the heart of Europe’s academic and industrial hubs.
Description of the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program
The EMGS Erasmus Mundus fosters interdisciplinary analysis of globalization—past, present, and future. It emphasizes historic, comparative, critical, and post-colonial perspectives. Students navigate a rigorous academic environment, enriched by multicultural cohorts and a dual-year mobility structure
Key Features of the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- International consortium with joint curricula
- Interdisciplinary modules: global history, governance, methods, thematic specialization .
- Winter & Summer schools as shared academic platforms
- Option for third-term study at non-European partner university
- Language & critical cultural engagement.
Mobility Tracks of the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Year 1: One European university
- Year 2: A different European university
- Optional non-European partner semester (replaces European term)
- Applicants can express preferences but final track is assigned based on fit and balance .
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s (3-year or equivalent) in History, Area Studies, Economics, Cultural Studies, Sociology, Political Science and Human Geography. with 15% global studies–relevant coursework
- English proficiency (TOEFL ≥ 80 or IELTS ≥ 6.5, all bands) .
- Another foreign language at A2 CEFR
- Selection considers academic excellence (50%), motivation (15%), degree compatibility (20%), work experience (15%
How to Apply for EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Apply online via Leipzig University’s AlmaWeb portal selecting “Global Studies, Master, 1st semester”
- Submit required documents: CV, motivation letter, nationality/residence proof, diplomas/transcripts, language test results
- Deadline for Erasmus Mundus scholarship consideration
Tips to Win the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Demonstrate clear motivation, highlight mobility preferences, research focus.
- Show interdisciplinary mindset, cross-course or project examples.
- Emphasize intercultural experience or language skills.
- Tailor your motivation letter to both scholarly passions and global vision.
Application Timeline
- Opens: January
- Deadline: March
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Term 1 & 2 (Year 1): Core modules—global history, theories, methods
- Term 2 & 3(Year 1 & 2): Regional/thematic specializations + winter/summer schools
- Optional Term 3: Non-European partner or specialization/internship
- Term 4: Research seminar, thesis colloquium & master’s thesis
Coordinator Contact
- e-mail: em[a]uni-leipzig.de
- phone: +49 341 9730230
Alumni Feedback
After two amazing years in the Global Studies program, I stayed in Vienna and became involved in human rights and migratory affairs. Now I work for the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) as a Project Manager. Since my graduation, EMGS has continued to be an important part of my life, as I’ve remained involved in the program’s impressive alumni network.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
A two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Global Studies, spanning multiple countries and academic disciplines.
Can I do the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program without German?
Yes, English is the main language. Local language courses are optional
Can I apply to EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program if I graduate after deadline?
Yes, upload transcripts. Final diploma can be submitted in first semester
Must I apply separately to each university in EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
No, all applications go through Leipzig University; just indicate preferred universities .
Do I need a background in Global Studies to apply for the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
No, but related fields like social sciences or humanities are preferred.
What degree do I earn after completing the EMGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
A joint or multiple master’s degree, depending on your mobility track.
