The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus is a cutting‑edge, two‑year Joint Master’s program that dives deep into Aquaculture, Environment, and Society. Imagine learning across three top European hubs—Scotland, Greece, and France—collecting 120 ECTS and unlocking a global network while gaining real‑world skills in sustainable seafood production.
With a curriculum blending fish nutrition, welfare, ecotoxicology, and more, students get hands‑on experience through internships and industry placements offered by over 60 partners. Taught entirely in English, this immersive experience is designed to train future leaders in sustainable aquaculture .
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-09-2022
- End date 31-10-2028
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program offers a two-year Master’s in Aquaculture, Environment, and Society across three top European universities, combining academic excellence with real-world industry experience.
| Scottish Association for Marine Science (UHI/SAMS |
| Sapienza University of Rome |
| University of Nantes |
| UK |
| Greece |
| France |
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 ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus Program
The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program is a 120‑credit Master’s designed to produce highly skilled professionals with expertise in environmental aquaculture systems and societal impact. Students learn globally, engage with industry, and fulfill sustainability goals across three countries
Key Features of the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus Program
- Modular design with nine thematic modules
- Progressive specialization: from global overview to species-specific systems
- Internship and dissertation opportunities with renowned partners
- Seminars and guest lectures from academic and industry leaders
Mobility Tracks of the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1: SAMS, University of the Highlands and Islands, UK
- Semester 2: University of Crete, Greece – focus on finfish aquaculture
- Semester 3: University of Nantes, France – focus on shellfish aquaculture
- Semester 4: research projects in Oban, Crete or Nantes.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s in environmental, social, or biological sciences
- English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or equivalent)
- Basic French recommended (intensive classes provided)
How to Apply for the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus Program
- Complete the online application form
- Upload academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, references, etc.
- Submit before deadline (see timeline below)
Tips to Win the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus Program
- Highlight diversity: international exposure, teamwork
- Emphasize environmental & societal impact
- Show your passion for sustainable aquaculture
- Secure strong references focused on research & leadership
- Tailor each document to address sustainability goals
Application Timeline
- Opens: December
- Deadline: January
- Interview: March
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus Program
- Year 1: Core & optional modules on global aquaculture, environmental interaction, governance, technology
- Year 1–2: Semesters in Scotland, Greece & France covering species biology, welfare, product safety, and policy
- Year 2 (Semester 4): Dissertation/internship linked with academic or industry partner
Coordinator Contact
- Email: aces@sams.ac.uk
Alumni Feedback
Being in ACES+ was amazing. I met the most amazing friends and had the best experiences. I learned a lot from all the people I had contact with and I know it has made me grow a lot. I’m sure this experience will stay with me forever, starting with the professors who have taught me so much during the last two years. I appreciate, greatly, this opportunity and I know that now I’m a better professional than I was before starting this master.
~Graciella Medina Madariaga
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program all about?
The ACES‑STAR Erasmus Mundus program is a two-year international Master’s focused on Aquaculture, Environment, and Society, offered by three top universities in the UK, Greece, and France.
Who is eligible to apply for the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program?
Anyone with a relevant Bachelor’s degree (in biology, environmental science, marine science, etc.) and proof of English proficiency can apply for the ACES‑STAR Erasmus Mundus program.
What does the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus scholarship cover?
The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus scholarship typically covers tuition fees, insurance, travel costs, and a monthly living allowance of approximately €1,400.
What documents are required to apply for the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program?
Applicants to the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program need academic transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter, two references, proof of English language skills, and sometimes a passport copy.
How competitive is the ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program?
The ACES-STAR Erasmus Mundus program is highly competitive, attracting students globally with academic excellence, motivation, and alignment with the program’s sustainability goals.
