The EMECS Erasmus Mundus Master in Embedded Computing Systems is a highly selective, prestigious two-year Erasmus Mundus joint master’s programme offering a unique blend of advanced education in embedded systems and rich international mobility experiences. It’s designed to educate graduates in Electrical & Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, and related disciplines, arming them with deep expertise in hardware architectures, system-on-chip (SoC) design, and system software—all delivered through world-class European institutions with strong industrial and research connections
Participants in the EMECS Erasmus Mundus programme benefit from a consortium of four leading universities: RPTU Kaiserslautern (Germany), NTNU (Norway), University of Southampton (UK), and Politecnico di Torino (Italy), ensuring diverse cultural immersion and academic excellence With 120 ECTS credits structured into a rigorous core curriculum, an adaptable elective scheme, and a high-impact industry or research-aligned thesis, graduates emerge with not just a degree, but a well-rounded launchpad into promising careers in embedded systems
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-10-2020
- End date 30-09-2026
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The EMECS Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in Embedded Computing Systems offered by leading European universities.
| RPTU Kaiserslautern |
| Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) |
| University of Southampton |
| Politecnico di Torino (POLITO) |
| Germany |
| Norway |
| United Kingdom |
| Italy |
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 EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program
The EMECS Erasmus Mundus program is a prestigious two-year Master’s in Embedded Computing Systems offered by leading European universities. It provides advanced education in embedded hardware architectures, system-on-chip design, and system software, combined with international mobility across partner institutions. The program equips graduates with strong technical expertise, cross-cultural experience, and industry-relevant skills, preparing them for high-level careers in sectors such as automotive, telecommunications, aerospace, and the Internet of Things.
Key Features of the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Rigorous Core Curriculum: Focus on Embedded System Hardware Architectures, System Software, and SoC design (45 ECTS, Year 1)
- Flexible Electives: Specialized modules in areas like AI, Microsystems, Signal Processing, Automation, tailored to your interests (45 ECTS)
- Industry-Linked Thesis: 30 ECTS Master’s thesis embedded in real research or industrial projects
- Mobility Advantage: At least two semesters in distinct countries, enriching both academic and cultural exposure
- Joint or Double Degree: Earn a prestigious credential that reflects your pan-European education
- Industry and Career Integration: Access to top-notch career services, and employability across sectors like automotive, telecoms, aerospace, IoT, and beyond
Mobility Tracks of the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Core mobility: One academic year (two semesters) at two different consortium universities (60+ ECTS per institution) e
- Optional Thesis Mobility: Possibility of completing the thesis phase at a third consortium partner, depending on available support
- Degree Type:
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical & Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields
- Proficiency in programming, data structures, algorithms, OS, or networking; other degrees considered if coursework aligns .
- Applicants must commit to full-time study and mobility across participating countries
- Strong academic record, motivational letter, CV, letters of recommendation, and English proficiency (B2 or equivalent)
- Administrative rules: Only three Erasmus Mundus applications per applicant per year; completed applications only
How to Apply for EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Submit through the official EMECS online application platform—opens around October annually
- Complete all required documents, including motivations, transcripts, language certificates, recommendations, etc.
- Upon acceptance, return a signed Declaration of Acceptance within one week, then kickstart your visa process (which may take 2–3 months)
- Submit originals, residence proof, and final degrees on enrollment
- Scholarships cover tuition waiver, health insurance, monthly living allowance (1,000 EUR), and travel/installation costs
- Plus, special regional scholarships may be available for applicants from targeted countries (e.g., Balkans, Asia least-developed, Latin America)
Tips to Win the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Aim for top-tier GPA and highlight relevant background—grades and relevance matter most .
- Craft a standout motivation letter—focus on your passion, alignment, and future goals
- Use a clean CV format—Europass is a safe, widely accepted template
- Engage strong recommendation letters—address them to “Selection Committee” or “To whomsoever it may concern”
- Leverage relevant experiences—research, volunteering, projects—to strengthen your profile
Application Timeline
- Opens: October
- Deadline: January
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Core Programme (45 ECTS): Embedded Hardware Architectures, System Software, SoC Design – completed in Year 1
- Elective Programme (45 ECTS): Courses in AI, Signal Processing, Automation & Control, Microsystems; supervised personal study plan across partner universities
- Master’s Thesis (30 ECTS): Research-oriented, often tied to industrial or academic projects in the second year
Coordinator Contact
- Phone: +49 631 205 2840
- Fax: + 49-631-205-4782
- Email: emecs@eit.uni-kl.de
Alumni Feedback
By choosing to study EMECS, I did not only get access to high quality technical and practical knowledge delivered by top European universities, but I also had the opportunity to reinvent myself, discover new cultures, make friends, learn different languages, socialize with passionate people and work within a research institute as an intern and for my thesis. For me, EMECS is not a only a master’s programme. It is an end-to-end technical and personal life-changing journey.
~Alexandru Cohal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year joint Master’s in Embedded Computing Systems offered by top European universities, focusing on hardware and software design, system-on-chip development, and embedded applications.
What are the eligibility requirements for the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants to the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree in Electrical & Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields, and demonstrate English language proficiency.
What kind of scholarship support was available in the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EMECS offered full scholarships covering tuition, health insurance, a monthly living stipend, and travel allowances.
What career opportunities are available to graduates of the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program are well-prepared for roles in embedded systems design, research, and development across industries such as automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, and IoT.
How was mobility structured in the EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EMECS Erasmus Mundus Program required students to study at two or more partner universities in different countries, with the possibility of completing the thesis at a third location.
