The EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program in Sustainable Systems Engineering is a dynamic, two-year integrated master’s programme worth 120 ECTS. It’s designed to train a new generation of experts in developing systems that are cost-efficient, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible – think drones, factory automation, autonomous vehicles, and more. Spread across top European universities in France, Italy, Spain, and Albania, the programme brings together cutting-edge engineering methods, lifecycle thinking, and strong industry partnerships.
Students can choose one of three mobility tracks—Systems of Systems Engineering (SoSE), Advanced Optimization & Systems (AOS), or Advanced Manufacturing Systems (AMS)—while rotating through partner institutions and collaborating with industry on a final master’s project. Graduates earn a joint degree awarded by all consortium universities and gain global employability credentials.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-10-2023
- End date 30-11-2029
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The EMSSE Erasmus Mundus program offers students the opportunity to study at four top European universities, focusing on sustainable systems engineering, advanced optimization, and smart manufacturing solutions.
| Université de Technologie de Compiègne |
| Università degli Studi di Genova |
| Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya |
| Polytechnic University of Tirana |
| France |
| Italy |
| Spain |
| Albania |
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 EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program
The programme educates students to design and evaluate systems considering all lifecycle stages—design, development, operations, and maintenance—with a strong emphasis on economic and environmental sustainability . It fosters interdisciplinary expertise by integrating engineering, optimization, manufacturing, and systems thinking across diverse cultural and academic contexts.
Key features of the EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Three mobility tracks: SoSE, AOS, AMS
- Rotational study at all four universities during the second semester
- Strong ties with industry for real-world master’s capstones
- Joint degree and diploma supplement from all partners
- Monthly scholarship (~€1,400) covering tuition for two years
Mobility tracks of the EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program
- SoSE – Systems of Systems Engineering (Genoa)
- AOS – Advanced Optimization & Systems (Compiègne)
- AMS – Advanced Manufacturing Systems (Barcelona)
Each track shares semesters across consortium universities and culminates in an industry-focused master’s projec
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (≥180 ECTS) in engineering, science, mathematics, or related fields
- Strong English proficiency: TOEFL iBT ≥ 92, IELTS ≥ 6.5, or equivalent CEFR B2+
- CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, one recommendation letter
- Graduation by July 31 of the application year
How to apply for EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Register and submit your application via the EMUNDUS portal
- Upload required documents (CV, transcripts, proof of language, recommendation letter, motivation)
- Choose your preferred mobility track
- Apply by the deadline (typically January 30)
- Track decisions: selections in March, interviews for shortlisted applicants
Tips to win the EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Highlight interdisciplinary engineering projects, especially with sustainability or systems focus
- Demonstrate strong English proficiency; include any French/Italian/Spanish skills (bonus)
- Show genuine motivation for mobility and cross-country learning
- Secure a strong recommendation—academia or industry
- Mention any practical or research achievements, particularly in optimization or manufacturing systems
Application Timeline
- Opens: October
- Deadline: January
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program
- M1S1, M1S2, M2S1: Courses rotate at partner universities
- M2S2: Industry-linked master’s thesis project under dual supervision
- Mobility matrix ensures exposure to all four partner universities
Coordinator Contact
- Name: Dritan Nace (UTC)
- Phone: +33 (0)3 44 23 43 02
- Email: dritan.nace@hds.utc.fr
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the duration of the EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program?
It’s a 2-year, 120 ECTS joint master’s programme.
How many universities are part of the EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program?
Four full partners (France, Italy, Spain, Albania), plus additional associated partners.
When does the EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program start?
The academic year begins in early September.
Are scholarships included in the EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes—€1,400/month for the full two-year duration for scholarship holders.
What are the English requirements for EMSSE Erasmus Mundus Program?
IELTS ≥ 6.5, TOEFL iBT ≥ 92, or equivalent.
