HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus Program in Coordinated Humanitarian Response, Health and Displacement

The HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus program is a pioneering initiative designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex humanitarian challenges. By integrating disciplines such as public health, displacement studies, and humanitarian coordination, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the needs of crisis-affected regions.

What sets the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus program apart is its commitment to inclusivity and global engagement. By fostering collaborations between European and African institutions, the program ensures that students gain diverse perspectives and practical experiences essential for effective humanitarian response.

Project Status

• Ongoing
• Start date: 01-11-2024
• End date: 31-12-2030
• EU Grant: 3.456.000,00 €
• Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master

Description of the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus Program

The HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus program aims to bridge the gap in humanitarian education by focusing on regions most affected by crises. By delivering education in the Global South, particularly in Africa, the program ensures that students, professionals, and academics from affected countries receive relevant and practical training. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing graduates to lead and innovate in humanitarian response efforts.

Key Features of the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus Program

• Multidisciplinary Curriculum: Integrates public health, displacement studies, and humanitarian coordination.
• Global Mobility: Study across multiple countries, gaining diverse perspectives.
• Practical Experience: Engage in internships and fieldwork with associated partners.
• Inclusive Focus: Prioritizes education delivery in crisis-affected regions.
• Joint Degrees: Receive degrees recognized across consortium institutions.

Mobility Tracks of the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus Program

The program’s mobility scheme allows students to study at different partner universities during their two-year course:

• Year 1, Semester 1: Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (Portugal)
• Year 1, Semester 2: National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Greece)
• Year 2, Semester 1: Norwegian University of Science and Technology (Norway)
• Year 2, Semester 2: One of the African partner universities (Uganda, Cape Verde, or Mozambique) for thesis and fieldwork.

This structure provides students with diverse academic environments and exposure to various research facilities and cultural contexts.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus program must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Background: Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, corresponding to 180 ECTS credits.
• Academic Excellence: Demonstrate a strong academic record and motivation for the program.
• Language Proficiency: Provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) if applicable.

Students in the final year of their bachelor’s program may apply, provided they graduate before the program’s start date.

How to Apply for HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus Program

Applications are submitted online through the program’s official website. The application package typically includes:

• Completed application form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Proof of English proficiency
• Two letters of recommendation

Applicants should ensure all documents are submitted before the specified deadlines.

Tips to Win the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus Program

• Start Early: Begin preparing your application well in advance to gather all necessary documents.
• Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Clearly articulate your interest in humanitarian response and how the program aligns with your career goals.
• Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize any academic, research, or professional experiences related to the program’s focus areas.
• Secure Strong Recommendations: Choose referees who can attest to your academic abilities and suitability for the program.
• Proofread: Ensure your application materials are free from errors and present a cohesive narrative.

Application Timeline

• Application Opens: October 2024
• Scholarship Application Deadline: February 2025
• Extended Deadline for Self-Funded Students: May 2025

Applicants seeking the Erasmus Mundus scholarship must submit their applications by the February deadline.

Curriculum Structure of the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus Program

The program’s curriculum is structured as follows:

• Semester 1: Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (Portugal)
  • Focus on global approach to humanitarian action.
• Semester 2: Norwegian University of Science and Technology (Norway)
  • Focus on global health, innovation and entrepreneurship, humanitarian design and advanced research methodology.
• Semester 3:  Makerere (Uganda)
  • Development studies and tools to deal with high volatile contexts due to war-induced conflicts or climate disasters.
• Semester 4: One of the partner universities or institutes
  • Master’s thesis project and fieldwork in a crisis-affected region.

Details of the course curriculum can be found here:

Coordinator Contact

For more information about the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus program, contact:

• Program Coordinator: Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa
• Email: humanresponse@iscte-iul.pt

Additional contact details can be found on the program’s official website.

Alumni Feedback

Alumni of the HumanResponse Erasmus Mundus program have praised its interdisciplinary approach, international exposure, and the opportunity to engage in real-world humanitarian projects. Graduates have successfully pursued careers in NGOs, international organizations, and governmental agencies, contributing to effective humanitarian responses worldwide.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)