RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus is a prestigious two‑year, Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) in Game Design, developed by a consortium of three leading European universities. Delivered entirely in English, this 120 ECTS programme is designed to empower an international cohort of students to redefine game design through culture, innovation, and experimentation.
Students progress through three distinctive countries and undertake a final thesis at any of the partner universities, combining theory, teamwork, hands‑on production, and research-led practice. Graduates emerge well-prepared for leadership roles in the evolving landscape of game and playful media industries.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-10-2023
- End date 30-11-2029
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus program offers students the opportunity to study at three top-tier universities across Europe.
Lusófona University |
Luca School of Arts |
Aalto University |
Portugal |
Belgium |
Finland |
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 RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program
RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus is a culturally immersive, highly collaborative Master’s in game design. Across four semesters, it encourages students to analyse games as cultural artefacts, invent interdisciplinary and platform-agnostic play formats, and build professional self-learning capacity through production-focused projects and mentorship.
Key Features of the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program
- Cultural Diversity & Critical Play: Each semester features a thematic focus, from games as cultural discourse to speculative design and industry-readiness
- Mobility Scheme: Mandatory movement between Lisbon → Genk → Helsinki → one of the consortium sites for thesis
- Industry Integration: Seminars, game jams, workshops, and collaborations with leading game professionals
- Funding Opportunity: Scholarships through Erasmus Mundus cover full tuition; Erasmus+ scholarships include €1,400/month stipend, travel, and insurance
Mobility Tracks of the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1 (Sept–Dec Year 1): Lisbon (Lusófona): focus on games as cultural expression
- Semester 2 (Jan–June Year 1): Genk (LUCA): emphasis on medium-agnostic game design
- Semester 3 (Sept–Dec Year 2): Helsinki (Aalto): developing production-oriented, self-learning skills
- Semester 4 (Jan–June Year 2): Thesis project at one of the three partner institutions
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (EQF 6 / NFQ 8 equivalent) in game design, arts, CS, or related fields, exceptions for professional experience
- English proficiency: IELTS ≥ 6.0, TOEFL iBT ≥ 80, or equivalent certs; waived if previous degree fully in English
- Application package (submitted in English): CV, motivation letter, 2–3 recommendation letters, show reel/video, portfolio, project post-mortems, proof of residency, identification, transcripts
How to Apply for RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program
- Wait for next call (Oct 2025 for 2026–2028 intake)
- Complete the online application form and upload required documents
- Shortlisted candidates take an online interview based on submitted materials
- Decisions communicated via email; no appeals except for procedural errors
Tips to Win the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program
- Craft a compelling motivation letter: explain your design interests, goals, and why RE_PLAY suits you
- Showcase depth in your portfolio: include reflective post‑mortems focusing on your role and learnings
- Elevate your showreel: one minute max, clear subtitles with your role/project context
- Get strong recommendations: referees should comment on your game design capacities and teamwork
- Prepare for your interview: revisit your submitted materials and be ready to articulate your vision and fit
Application Timeline
Activity | Date Range |
---|---|
Application opens | October 2025 |
Application deadline | Around mid-January 2026 |
Selection & Interviews | Late winter 2026 |
Classes start | September 2026 |
Curriculum Structure of the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program
- Year 1:
- Semester 1 in Lisbon: Critical Play, Design Sprint I, Experimental Play Lab, Game Seminars I
- Semester 2 in Genk: Design Sprint II, Play in Context, Speculative Design, Game Seminars II
- Year 2:
- Semester 3 in Helsinki: Game Jam, Game Project Seminar, Learning with Professionals, Games Now! Community
- Semester 4: 30-ECTS thesis based on practical or research-driven project
Coordinator Contact
- For general info & academics, contact the programme coordinator.
- Email: replaymasters@ulusofona.pt
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
A two-year, full-time Master’s in Game Design offered by a European consortium, culminating in a joint MA degree.
Who is eligible for the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates with a Bachelor’s (or equivalent) in game design, arts, computer science, or significant related professional experience.
Can I apply for a scholarship in the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, top-ranked applicants receive Erasmus Mundus scholarships covering tuition, living, and travel expenses for 24 months
Is English required for the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes. IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 80, or equivalent is required, unless your prior degree was entirely in English.
When can I apply to the RE_PLAY Erasmus Mundus Program?
Next intake opens October 2025, deadline mid‑January 2026 for the 2026–28 cohort.