The EMPHID Erasmus Mundus program is a distinguished two-year joint master’s degree in Public Health in Disasters, jointly offered by Universidad de Oviedo (Spain), Karolinska Institutet (Sweden), and the University of Nicosia (Cyprus). Supported by the European Union through the Erasmus+ initiative, the program aims to equip professionals with advanced knowledge and practical skills to address public health challenges in disaster and emergency settings. It provides a comprehensive, interdisciplinary curriculum that blends theoretical foundations with hands-on fieldwork in diverse contexts across Europe.
Designed for future leaders in disaster response and public health, the EMPHID Erasmus Mundus program offers a highly competitive full scholarship. This includes tuition coverage, a monthly living stipend of approximately €1,400, travel allowances, and health insurance. Students benefit from a multicultural learning environment, rotating through three leading institutions, and are trained to work effectively in international teams and crisis situations. The program’s emphasis on evidence-based practices and applied research makes it ideal for those committed to making a meaningful impact in disaster-prone and humanitarian contexts.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date  01-10-2023
- End date 30-11-2029
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The EMPHID Erasmus Mundus program allows students to study at top European universities, focusing on disaster preparedness, emergency response, and public health management
| Spain |
| Sweden |
| Cyprus |
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 EMPHID Erasmus Mundus Program
EMPHID Erasmus Mundus is a joint, immersive MSc program designed to train students in disaster‑driven public health. Over two years, participants progress through three academic terms—one at each host institution—followed by a research‑driven master’s thesis. Grounded in real‑life crisis response, it bridges theoretical foundations with practical application in disaster‑affected communities.
Key Features of the EMPHID Erasmus Mundus Program
- Full scholarship: Tuition, stipend, travel & insurance included
- Multilateral mobility: Study and live in three countries
- Interdisciplinary coursework: From epidemiology and logistics to psychosocial response
- Professional internships: Apply learning in real-world disaster settings
- Research-led thesis: 30 ECTS focused on pressing public‑health disasters
- Global network: Ties to NGOs, universities, MSF, Red Cross, and more
Mobility Tracks of the EMPHID Erasmus Mundus Program
- Year 1 – Term 1 (30 ECTS): Core disaster modules at Universidad de Oviedo
- Term 2 (30 ECTS): Public health response and internship at Karolinska Institutet
- Year 2 – Term 3 (30 ECTS): Epidemiology & research at University of Nicosia
- Thesis (30 ECTS): Conduct research and defend it across consortium universities
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree with ≥180 ECTS in health, social sciences, law, management, or technical fields
- English proficiency C1: IELTS ≥6.5 (writing ≥6.5), TOEFL iBT ≥79 (writing ≥20)
- Documents: Diplomas, transcripts, syllabus, English certificate, CV, motivation letter, ≥2 references, language & residence documentation
How to Apply for EMPHID Erasmus Mundus Program
- Visit the online application portal.
- Upload all required documents digitally.
- Complete formalities (including hard copies) after pre-selection.
- Submit by January 15 (annual deadline)
Tips to Win the EMPHID Erasmus Mundus Program
- Showcase real-world experience in disaster/public health
- Highlight cross-cultural adaptability & leadership
- Obtain strong academic + professional references
- Tailor your motivation letter to international mobility track & career goals
Application Timeline
- Opens: October
- Deadline: January
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the EMPHID Erasmus Mundus Program
- Core Modules (Oviedo): disaster theory, public health foundations
- Applied Learning (Karolinska): response strategies, internship
- Research Training (Nicosia): epidemiology, biostatistics, thesis groundwork
- Master Thesis: 30 ECTS culminating in public defense across consortium
Coordinator Contact
- Contact: +34 98 510 29 26
- Email: emmphid.eu@uniovi.es
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the EMPHID Erasmus Mundus Program unique?
It’s one of the few fully‑funded joint masters with compulsory mobility and a focus on disasters.
Is EMPHID Erasmus Mundus open to non‑health science graduates?
Yes—economics, law, engineering or social science graduates are eligible if they meet ECTS requirements
Does EMPHID Erasmus Mundus offer internships?
Definitely—students complete practical internships as part of the Karolinska term.
Can I apply to EMPHID Erasmus Mundus without scholarship?
Yes—self‑financing students may still apply if they meet admission criteria.
Is the EMPHID Erasmus Mundus workload heavy?
It’s intensive—90 ECTS of coursework + 30 ECTS thesis over 24 months.
