The EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program (a joint Master’s in Human Rights Policy and Practice) is an interdisciplinary, two-year journey designed for bold minds eager to become global human rights professionals. Delivered in English, this full-time programme blends rigorous academic insight with real-world flair, preparing you for careers in NGOs, international agencies, policy-making, or beyond. The curriculum spans four leading European universities covering theory, practice, research, and professional development in equal measure
Imagine starting your academic adventure in Gothenburg, Sweden, diving into seminars on human rights theory and market politics; then hopping to Bilbao, Spain, to explore cultural diversity and methodological rigor; moving next to London for hands-on internships and seminars; and finally channeling all that experience into a dissertation under expert supervision—maybe even with a thesis advisor from Arctic Norway. It’s immersive, it’s transformative, and it’s designed to launch your career with force
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-09-2020
- End date 31-08-2026
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in Human Rights Policy and Practice offered jointly by leading European universities in Sweden, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Norway.
| Austria |
| Portugal |
| Ireland |
| Poland |
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 EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program
The EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program is an innovative two-year Master’s melding academic theory with tangible practice. It equips students with a broad, multidisciplinary foundation, legal, sociological, political, and anthropological perspectives, while instilling essential skills in research, policy-making, and advocacy. This blended learning approach ensures graduates are ready for real-world impact in human rights
Key Features of the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program
- Four-semester, 120 ECTS structure over 24 months
- Rotating semesters across four prestigious universities in Europe
- Professional Seminar Series, field visits, and internship opportunities in London
- Strong professionalization focus—report writing, campaign creation, project management, and public speaking integrated throughout
- Joint Master’s Degree issued by the University of Gothenburg
- Dissertation completion under expert supervision, culminating in public presentation at an annual Student Symposium
Mobility Tracks of the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1 – Gothenburg, Sweden (Theory & foundational learning)
- Semester 2 – Bilbao/San Sebastián, Spain (Methodologies & cultural contexts)
- Semester 3 – London, UK (Seminars, internships, practical engagement)
- Semester 4 – Thesis Abroad (wherever your advisor is, potentially Arctic Norway)
Admission Requirements
To be part of the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus experience, you need:
- A first degree equivalent to 180 ECTS credits from a recognized university
- Minimum of two years practitioner experience in human rights (paid, internship, or voluntary)
- English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
How to Apply for the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program
- The Joint Admission Committee based at University of Gothenburg manages selection
- Selection is based on:
- Academic competence (including English proficiency)
- Motivation letter
- Work experience and recommendation letters
- Submit through University Admissions in Sweden (online portal)
- If you’re going for the Erasmus Mundus scholarship, include that application form too. Otherwise, you’ll be considered as a self-funded candidate
- Next call for admission opens around October (TBC)
Tips to Win the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program
- Be genuine: tailor your motivation letter to reflect a clear connection between your career goals and what EMHRPP offers—avoid generic fluff
- Intertwine passion and precision: highlight achievements from academia, volunteer work, or professional practice—link them to human rights aspirations
- Show relevance: relevance of your background is almost as crucial as grades, so spotlight experiences aligned with human rights
- Proofread like a hawk: a flawless submission speaks volumes about your commitment
- You don’t need to court professors beforehand—the selection is merit-based, guided by clear rubrics
Application Timeline
- Application Open: October
- Application Deadline: January
- Online Interview: Febraury
- Program Start Date: September
Curriculum Structure of the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semesters 1 & 2: Core interdisciplinary modules—human rights theory, market-politics intersections, research methodologies, diversity, etc. taught at Gothenburg and Deusto
- Semester 3: Professional seminars, field visits, practical internships in London, and lectures on social change
- Semester 4: Dissertation stage—research under supervision and potential participation in the Student Symposium
Coordinator Contact
- Email: EMHRPPUGOT@gu.se
Phone: +46 31-786 58 02
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year Master’s degree in Human Rights Policy and Practice, delivered jointly by four European universities across Sweden, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Norway.
Who can apply for the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants to the EMHRPP Program must hold a Bachelor’s degree equivalent to 180 ECTS credits and demonstrate at least two years of relevant professional or voluntary experience in the field of human rights.
What are the language requirements for the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
All courses in the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program are taught in English, so candidates must provide proof of English proficiency through recognized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
How long is the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program is a full-time Master’s degree running over 24 months (120 ECTS), with each semester hosted by a different partner university.
What funding opportunities are available for the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
Students in the EMHRPP Program may apply for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree scholarships, which cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and insurance.
How competitive is admission to the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
Admission to the EMHRPP Program is competitive. The selection committee evaluates academic merit, professional experience, motivation, and recommendation letters to shortlist candidates.
Can I apply to the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program without work experience?
No. The EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program requires at least two years of relevant professional, internship, or voluntary experience in human rights to be eligible.
What career opportunities are available after completing the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the EMHRPP Erasmus Mundus Program pursue careers in NGOs, international organizations, academia, government agencies, and policy-making institutions.
