The EPS Erasmus Mundus (European Politics and Society – Václav Havel Joint Master Programme) is a dynamic two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master degree that brings together the disciplines of European politics, contemporary history and culture, economics, international relations, and policymaking. The program is meticulously designed to equip students with the analytical tools necessary to address pressing European challenges such as migration, security, and the rise of populism.
Students embark on this academic journey with an introductory semester in Prague, then proceed to specialized EU-focused coursework in Krakow or Leiden. The third and fourth semesters offer tailored study tracks across Prague, Krakow, Barcelona, and Leiden, where students engage in electives, advanced research methods, internships, language training, and ultimately complete a research dissertation. Graduates receive a joint diploma and a diploma supplement from Charles University, valid across all four consortium countries.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-09-2019
- End date 31-08-2025
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The EPS Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in European Politics and Society offered by four leading European universities.
| Charles University |
| Jagiellonian University |
| Leiden University |
| Pompeu Fabra University |
| Czech Republic |
| Poland |
| Netherlands |
| Spain |
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 EPS Erasmus Mundus Program
The EPS Erasmus Mundus Programme offers an immersive and structured two-year academic experience that blends rigorous theoretical training with real-world application. Built around three core pillars—knowledge, experience, and networking—it empowers students to comprehend contemporary European politics and society in an international context.
Key Features of the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Multidisciplinary curriculum covering EU institutions, social and cultural challenges, and social science methodologies
- Academic flexibility, with facultative courses in partner universities
- Practical skills development through workshops like ‘Leading in Complexity’, career training (CV, LinkedIn, negotiation), and interactive seminars
- Enriching scholarly engagements such as the Barcelona Research Seminar and Oxford Spring School
- Internships embedded in the curriculum for real-world experience
- Extensive networking within the EPS community, including peers, faculty across institutions, and professionals from internships and field trips
Mobility Tracks of the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program
- First Semester: Prague (compulsory foundational courses + Brussels field trip)
- Second Semester: Choice between Leiden or Krakow (compulsory EU-focused courses + electives)
- Second Year: One track among:
- Transformation and Development in Contemporary Europe (Prague)
- Policymaking in the EU (Barcelona)
- Central & Eastern Europe and International Relations (Krakow)
- Europe in the International Environment (Leiden)
- Academic Highlights:
- Barcelona Research Seminar – MA thesis proposal presentation
- Oxford Spring School – exclusive academic opportunity during final year
- Final Semester: Full focus on MA thesis development and defense, supported by seminars across consortium universities
Admission Requirements
- A translated Bachelor’s (or Master’s) diploma or confirmation of imminent graduation
- A second diploma (e.g., second Bachelor’s or High School diploma)
- Official transcripts
- CV
- Motivation letter (1–1.5 pages; Calibri 11, 1.5 spacing, 2.5 cm margins)
- Two letters of recommendation
- English proficiency proof (C1 level—CAE, IELTS 7.0, TOEFL 95, or equivalent confirmation of English instruction)
- Passport copy
- Proof of residence (issued within 12 months)
- Completed supplementary questionnaire with study track preferences
Applicants must not have previously received an EMJMD or Erasmus Mundus scholarship.
How to Apply for the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Submit your full application—including all documents, data, motivation letter, recommendations, and supplementary questionnaire—via the EPS portal.
- Pay the application fee (880 CZK, approx. 40 EUR) by April 30 for early bird assessment (or February 28 deadline accordingly).
- Scholarship results: communicated by European Commission in June 2025; followed by personal notifications in July.
Tips to Win the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Tailor your motivation letter precisely to EPS values—clarity, focus, format compliance = big points
- Demonstrate multidisciplinary interest in European affairs, policy, and social science research
- Elect strong referees who can speak to your analytical or international readiness
- Craft a compelling study track preference in the supplementary questionnaire
- Showcase leadership potential and engagement with Europe-related issues
- If self-funding, highlight commitment, flexibility, and adaptability across cultural contexts
Application Timeline
| Phase | Period |
|---|---|
| Admission Opens | November |
| Scholarship Application Deadline | February |
| Self-Funding Application Window | March – April |
| Selection Results Announcement | April 30 (acceptance); June (scholarships) |
| Scholarship Notification | July |
Curriculum Structure of the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Duration: 2 years (4 semesters), 120 ECTS
- Year 1:
- Semester 1 (Prague): Mandatory foundational methodology and disciplines; Brussels Field Trip; MA thesis topic selection
- Semester 2 (Leiden/Krakow): Compulsory EU studies courses + faculty electives
- Year 2:
- Semester 3–4: Specialty track coursework, thesis seminars, Barcelona Research Seminar, Oxford Spring School, and final MA thesis development and defense
Coordinator Contact
General contact: eps@fsv.cuni.cz (EPS Coordinator, Charles University)
Admissions inquiries: admissions@fsv.cuni.cz (for technical/admission-related questions)
Alumni Feedback
Moving between universities was exhilarating. Making new friends and adapting to different environments was an eye-opening experience—positively challenging and a wonderful push out of my comfort zone.
~Stefania Pavel
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EPS Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year Master’s degree in European Politics and Society offered by four prestigious European universities. It combines political science, international relations, history, economics, and cultural studies.
Who can apply for the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EPS Erasmus Mundus Program is open to applicants from all nationalities who hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, humanities, or related fields, and who can demonstrate proficiency in English at a C1 level.
What scholarships are available for the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EPS Erasmus Mundus Program offers Erasmus+ funded scholarships that cover tuition, travel, and living expenses. Each year, a limited number of students are selected for these fully funded awards.
What is the duration of the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EPS Erasmus Mundus Program lasts two years (four semesters) and includes coursework, mobility tracks across different partner universities, internships, and a Master’s thesis.
What career opportunities are available after completing the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program pursue careers in international organizations, governmental institutions, NGOs, think tanks, academia, and private sector roles related to policy, diplomacy, and European affairs.
What language is the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program taught in?
The EPS Erasmus Mundus Program is taught entirely in English, although students may also take optional language courses during their studies.
Does the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program provide support for visas and residence permits?
Yes, the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program provides guidance and support to admitted students regarding visa and residence permit procedures in each host country.
Can I apply to the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program if I already hold another Erasmus Mundus scholarship?
No, students who have already received an Erasmus Mundus scholarship for another program are not eligible for funding in the EPS Erasmus Mundus Program.
