EMMNano Erasmus Mundus Master Nanoscience and Nanotechnology

The EMMNano Erasmus Mundus Master Nanoscience and Nanotechnology is a distinguished two-year, 120 ECTS joint master’s programme delivered entirely in English. Supported by the Erasmus+ initiative, it is crafted and offered by a consortium of five leading European universities. The programme is integrally multidisciplinary, providing foundational training across nanoscience and nanotechnology, alongside opportunities for individual specialisation through an innovative curriculum design. Students spend one year at each of two partner institutions and, upon completion, earn a prestigious joint degree from both symbolizing the programme’s international reach and academic excellence.

It boasts a strong research backbone and flexible mobility scheme, allowing students to tailor their learning path to their interests within nanoscience’s diverse domains. From nanophysics to bionanotechnology, the EMMNano Erasmus Mundus programme cultivates both breadth and depth.

Project Status

• Status: Ongoing
• Start date 01-09-2020
• End date 30-09-2026
• Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees

Description of the EMMNano Erasmus Mundus Program

The EMMNano Erasmus Mundus programme offers a two-year, 120 ECTS integrated master’s degree in nanoscience and nanotechnology. Participants commence their journey at KU Leuven for foundational training, then move to a second institution for specialisation and thesis work. The curriculum encompasses six educational modules from general interest courses to specific advanced topics and a master thesis ensuring both comprehensive grounding and personal focus areas.

Key Features of the EMMNano Erasmus Mundus Program

• Joint Degree: Students graduate with a degree jointly issued by two universities.
• Mobility & Multidisciplinarity: First year at KU Leuven, second year at another partner institution, allowing custom specialisation in five fields—nanophysics, nanochemistry, nanoelectronics, biophysics, or bionanotechnology.
• Research Integration: Strong ties to top research facilities and groups across all partner institutions.
• Erasmus+ Support: Offers scholarships covering tuition contribution, living allowance, travel, and installation. Additional funding may be available specifically via consortium agreements.

Mobility Tracks of the EMMNano Erasmus Mundus Program

• Year 1: Core curriculum at KU Leuven.
• Year 2: Specialisation at a selected partner university i.e Grenoble, Chalmers, TU Dresden, or Barcelona—aligned with research strengths.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, chemistry, biochemistry, electrical engineering, materials science, or a related discipline. Must include background in mathematics and physics or chemistry; 180 ECTS and GPA ≥ 75% of maximum required.
• Required documents: diplomas/transcripts (with translations), proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL unless prior English-taught diploma in certain countries), motivation letter, CV, two recommendation letters, passport ID page, residency proof, and payment receipt of the €90 application fee. GRE is optional but may be considered. Applicants must indicate their preferred second-year track in the annex.

How to Apply for EMMNano Erasmus Mundus Program

• Complete the online application through the KU Leuven portal.
• Fill in all personal and academic details accurately; upload required documents as PDF files in English (official translations accepted).
• Provide details of two referees. The reference letters must be submitted directly by the referees, not by the applicant.
• Attach the following documents:
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate(s) and academic transcripts (with official translations if needed)
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
  • Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages)
  • Motivation letter
  • Copy of valid passport/ID
  • Proof of residence
  • Annex form specifying second-year track preference
• Submit the application before the relevant deadline.
• Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an interview, focusing on motivation, academic fit, and English communication skills.

Tips to Win the EMMNano Erasmus Mundus Programme

• Craft a concise Europass-style CV: keep it within 2 pages, highlighting only what’s relevant.
• Write a powerful, focused motivation letter: succinctly share your story, reason for applying, how the programme fits your future, study and thesis plans, and how you’ll leverage the academic and industry network.
• Show your unique value: mention extracurriculars or other strengths that set you apart emotionally and academically.
• Reach out for insights: connect with alumni or current students (LinkedIn or forums) for perspectives and tips.

Application Timeline

• Pre-application (preferably for non-EU): by January 15, 2025
• Application Deadline:
  • Non-EU: January 31, 2025
  • EU: May 31, 2025
• Selection meeting: around late February (non-EU applications)
• Results announced shortly thereafter.

Curriculum Structure of the EMMNano Erasmus Mundus Programme

• Modules: Fundamental courses, general interest, core, specialized, broadening, and the final master’s thesis. Total 120 ECTS over two years.
• Options and Courses: Specialized tracks like Quantum Engineering are available (e.g., 30 ECTS thesis, plus thematic courses), with broadening electives such as nanophotonics, drug delivery systems, etc., at second-year institutions.

Coordinator Contact

Tel: +32 16 281 747
Email: nano@kuleuven.be

Alumni Feedback

The EMM Nano progam offerd me the greatest academic experience in my life; the opportunity to study in 2 European top Universities with excellently qualified professors in a vast number of nanotechnology-related fields.  The chance to be able to share 2 years with fellow students from all sorts of academic and cultural backgrounds allowed me not only to increase my technical and scientific knowledge, but also to grow as a person.  I was able to broaden my area of expertise by making use of my previously acquired aptitudes, a chance only a highly multi-disciplinary curriculum as this one can give.  I encourage everyone interested in pursuing Nanoscience and Nanotechnology as a career to definitely apply for this amazing program.

~Juan Enrique Ramirez Hernande

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)