The AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme is a distinguished two-year Master of Science in Health Management in Aquaculture, awarded the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) status. Designed to cultivate future leaders in sustainable aquaculture, the programme brings together a dynamic, international consortium of European universities to deliver cutting-edge theoretical and practical training in aquatic health management. Launched in 2019, this initiative responds to the critical need for expertise in managing health challenges in farmed aquatic animals—amid rising global food demands and overfishing issues.
Students in the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme experience academically rigorous study and hands-on learning in disease prevention, aquaculture health diagnostics, and sustainable aquaculture practices. The curriculum immerses learners in innovative solutions for aquaculture health, combining strong theoretical foundations with applied research and industry-aligned internships. Delivered in English, the programme equips graduates with the competencies to become entrepreneurial health managers in global aquaculture industries.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-09-2020
- End date 30-09-2026
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The AquaH Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in Health Management in Aquaculture offered by leading European universities.
| Ghent University |
| Norwegian University of Science and Technology |
| Wageningen University & Research |
| Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona |
| Universitat de Barcelona |
Description of the AquaH Erasmus Mundus Programme
The AquaH Erasmus Mundus Master’s programme delivers integrated education in aquaculture health management, spanning disease prevention, epidemiology, welfare regulations, and environmental interactions. It instils the necessary knowledge and skills to address health-related challenges in commercial aquaculture settings, while ingraining sustainability and innovation.
Key Features of the AquaH Erasmus Mundus Programme
- Prestigious Erasmus Mundus accreditation and international teaching consortium.
- Multidisciplinary, multi-institutional curriculum covering aquaculture health, immunology, disease management, statistics, and microbial ecology.
- Hands-on training, internships, and research placements with industry and academic partners.
- Strong emphasis on innovation, sustainable solutions, and employability across academia, consultancy, industry, and governmental agencies.
Mobility Tracks of the AquaH Erasmus Mundus Programme
- Semester 1: Common foundational semester at Ghent University.
- Semesters 2 & 3: Choose a specialization track at:
- NTNU (ecosystem–health interactions)
- Wageningen University (disease prevention and environmental sustainability)
- UAB/UB (animal physiology and health)
- Semester 4: Master’s dissertation and potential internship placement with academic or industry partners.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree equivalent to 180 ECTS.
- Foundational coursework in at least five of these seven disciplines: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Engineering.
- Statistics (Level 1 & 2) is required.
- English proficiency typically IELTS ≥ 6.5 or TOEFL iBT ≥ 92.
How to Apply for AquaH Erasmus Mundus Programme
- Submit your application through the official AquaH portal.
- Provide academic transcripts, proof of relevant coursework, English proficiency test scores, and application materials as specified.
- Scholarship applications (Erasmus Mundus grants) are integrated into the online application process.
Tips to Win the AquaH Erasmus Mundus Programme
- Showcase strong academic credentials in relevant scientific and quantitative subjects.
- Demonstrate clear motivation and understanding of aquaculture health challenges.
- Highlight interdisciplinary interests—connecting biology, environment, policy, innovation.
- Secure strong recommendation letters, preferably from academics with experience in marine or health sciences.
- Meet language requirements with polished English proficiency scores.
- Prepare a compelling statement of purpose articulating your vision for aquaculture health management.
Application Timeline
- Opens: October
- Deadline: February
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the AquaH Erasmus Mundus Programme
- Duration: Two years, full-time, 120 ECTS.
- Core Courses Include:
- Diseases in Aquaculture
- Viral Disease Management
- Fish and Shellfish Immunology
- Aquaculture Genetics
- Applied Statistics
- Aquatic Microbial Community Management
- Coursework is paired with practical placements, research projects, and final master’s thesis in Semester 4.
Coordinator Contact
- Email: info@aquah.eu
Alumni Feedback
“AquaH allowed me to ascend to a new level in my professional career and broaden my knowledge in the field of aquatic animal health. Being able to access education from the various consortium universities, which provide a cutting-edge research environment and world-class quality education, has undoubtedly made it an experience of a lifetime. Not only did we gain a stronger intellectual foundation and enhance our research skills to address aquaculture and food security problems, but we also made friends, explored new places, and experienced different cultures! Forever grateful to AquaH and Erasmus Mundus!”
~Joyce Hilario
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme?
The AquaH Erasmus Mundus is a two-year Master of Science in Health Management in Aquaculture, delivered by leading European universities and funded under the Erasmus Mundus framework.
How long does the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme last?
The AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme runs for two academic years (120 ECTS), including coursework, mobility tracks, research, and a final Master’s thesis.
When can I apply for the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme?
Applications for the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme usually open in October and close in January for scholarship consideration. Self-funded applicants may have later deadlines.
What scholarships are available for the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme?
The AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme provides Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) scholarships, which cover tuition fees, monthly living allowance, and travel costs, when available.
What are the admission requirements for the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme?
Applicants to the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme need a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, background in at least five scientific disciplines (such as biology, microbiology, chemistry, or engineering), and proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 92).
What career opportunities are available after completing the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme?
Graduates of the AquaH Erasmus Mundus programme can work as aquaculture health managers, consultants, researchers, and policy advisors in academia, industry, or governmental agencies.
