The FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus programme, officially titled the European Master of Sustainable Food Systems Engineering, Technology and Business, is a cutting-edge joint master’s degree crafted by a consortium of four leading European institutions. It embraces a visionary approach—with the “food force” or 4S paradigm—intertwining Science (Food Science & Engineering), Sustainability (Food Product & Process Design), Safety (Food Safety & Quality), and Simulation (Computational Food Science & Technology). This transdisciplinary curriculum is meticulously structured to prepare graduates to meet real-world challenges in sustainable food systems with innovation and technical mastery.
Graduates receive a prestigious joint degree issued collectively by KU Leuven (Belgium), Universidade Católica Portuguesa (Portugal), Anhalt University of Applied Sciences (Germany), and University College Dublin (Ireland). The programme is designed as a dynamic two-year, modular format that builds from foundational theory to specialized practice, including an optional professional competence module and a rigorous thesis, culminating in exceptional employability in academia, industry, and beyond.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-09-2020
- End date 31-08-2026
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in Sustainable Food Systems Engineering, Technology and Business offered by leading European universities.
| KU Leuven |
| Universidade Católica Portuguesa |
| Anhalt University of Applied Sciences |
| University College Dublin |
| Belgium |
| Portugal |
| Germany |
| Ireland |
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 FOOD4S Erasmus Program
The FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus programme offers an unparalleled European educational experience in sustainable food systems, seamlessly integrating innovation, technology, safety, and computational methods within a global food systems perspective. In a clear, modular layout across four institutions, it advances from fundamental knowledge to specialized applications and research. Students gain academic depth, intercultural exposure, and industry relevance, all culminating in a joint master’s degree.
Key Features of the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program
- 4S Paradigm: Science, Sustainability, Safety, Simulation.
- Joint Degree: Issued by four partner universities.
- Modular Format: Core and elective modules, plus optional professional competence module and thesis.
- Inter-Institution Mobility: Study in Belgium, Portugal, Germany, and Ireland.
- Career Outcomes: ~90% employment rate within six months; ~10% pursue PhD research.
Mobility Tracks of the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program
| Semester | Location | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | KU Leuven (Belgium) | Core modules: Food Science, Safety, Process Design, Computational Technology |
| Stage 2 | UCP (Portugal) & HS Anhalt (Germany) | Environmental Sustainability, Business & Economics, Specialized production modules |
| Stage 3 | UCD (Ireland) | Advanced modules: Risk Assessment, Data Analysis, Waste to Energy, Innovative Processing |
| Stage 4 | One partner (any) | MSc Thesis; optional Professional Competence Module during summer |
Admission Requirements
- A recognized bachelor’s degree (not obtained in the Flemish Community) via application to KU Leuven admissions.
- Proficiency in English.
- Specific diploma, language, and additional requirements as per the official admissions page.
How to Apply for the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program
- Access the KU Leuven online application tool
- Select the program: European Master in Sustainable Food Systems Engineering, Technology and Business (Ghent et al).
- Upload required documents: CV, transcripts, degree certificate (or proof of expected graduation), passport, proof of English proficiency, and motivation letter.
- Submit before the deadline
- Applicants are notified in May; those on the reserve list may be contacted later.
- Once admitted, confirm acceptance and complete registration steps as guided by KU Leuven.
Tips to Win the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program
- Submit early, especially before 1 March for scholarship consideration.
- Highlight alignment with the 4S paradigm and sustainability goals.
- Demonstrate mobility readiness and adaptability to studying across four countries.
- Emphasize innovation and research passion, especially with respect to food systems.
- Mention associated partners experience or interests if relevant (e.g., INRAE, UNICAMP).
Application Timeline
- Opens: November
- Deadline: March
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program
- Stage 1 (Belgium): Core modules—Food Science (8 ECTS), Safety (6), Process Design (4), Computational Tech (6).
- Stage 2 (Portugal/Germany): Sustainability, Business & Economics, Plant/Animal production (various ECTS); selectable electives.
- Stage 3 (Ireland): Risk Assessment, Data Analysis, Waste to Energy, Processing, Chemometrics, culminating in MSc Thesis (30 ECTS).
- Optional: Professional Competence Module (12 ECTS).
Coordinator Contact
- Email: office@food4s.eu
Alumni Feedback
I am thrilled to announce that I have successfully graduated with a Master’s of Science in Sustainable Food Systems Engineering, Technology, and Business. This is a joint master’s degree offered by 4 prestigious universities – KU Leuven, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Hochschule Anhalt and University College Dublin. It has been an incredible journey delving into the dynamic intersection of technology, business, and sustainability in the food industry.
~Shruti Somani
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program?
The FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year joint master’s degree in Sustainable Food Systems Engineering, Technology and Business, offered by KU Leuven, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, and University College Dublin.
Who can apply for the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants with a recognized bachelor’s degree in food science, engineering, life sciences, or a closely related field are eligible to apply for the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program. Proof of English proficiency is also required.
What documents are needed for the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program application?
Applicants to the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program must submit a CV, academic transcripts, degree certificate (or proof of expected graduation), proof of English proficiency, motivation letter, and a valid passport.
What career opportunities are available after graduating from the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program typically work in the global food industry, research institutes, or international organizations, with many also pursuing PhD studies in food science and sustainability.
What degree is awarded after completing the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Program receive a prestigious joint degree issued collectively by the four partner universities.
