The HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Joint Master is a pioneering two-year, English-taught program that addresses the growing global demand for professionals skilled in preventive health strategies. Rooted in the principles of non-pharmacological approaches, the program emphasizes nutrition, lifestyle education, and the judicious use of cosmetics, food supplements, and digital tools to promote health and wellbeing across all stages of life.​
Designed through a collaborative effort among leading European universities and industry stakeholders, HYGIEIA offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends academic rigor with practical insights. Students benefit from a multicultural learning environment, gaining exposure to diverse healthcare systems and practices, thereby preparing them for impactful careers in the health and wellness sector.
Project Status
- Program Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-10-2024
- End date 30-11-2030
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Masters program offers students the opportunity to study at three top-tier universities across Europe.
| Lusófona University |
| University of Belgrade |
| University of the Balearic Islands |
| Portugal |
| Serbia |
| Spain |
Additionally, the program collaborates with various associated partners and stakeholders across Europe, enhancing its international scope.​ 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 HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program
The HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus program is centered on equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary for implementing effective, non-pharmacological health interventions. By focusing on prevention rather than treatment, the program addresses the increasing need for sustainable health strategies in modern societies.
Key Features of the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program
- Duration: 2 years (120 ECTS)
- Language: English
- Scholarships: Erasmus Mundus scholarships covering tuition and providing a monthly stipend of €1,400 for up to 24 months
- Intake Capacity: 21 students per cohort, including provisions for students with special needs
- Consortium: Collaboration among three universities and various industry stakeholders​
Mobility Tracks of the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program
Students participate in a structured mobility path, studying across the three partner universities:​
- Semester 1: Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal
- Semester 2: University of the Balearic Islands, Spain
- Semester 3: University of Belgrade, Serbia
- Semester 4: in industry, healthcare providers, or in research centers, worldwide.
This mobility enhances cross-cultural competencies and provides exposure to varied healthcare systems.​
Admission Requirements
- Academic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree equivalent to European Qualification Framework Level 6 or higher
- Relevant Fields: Health sciences, nutrition, pharmacy, psychology, or related disciplines
- Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Additional Documents: Academic transcripts, motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and a comprehensive CV​
How to Apply for HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program
- Online Application: Complete the application form available on the HYGIEIA official website.
- Document Submission: Upload all required documents, including academic records and proof of language proficiency.
- Portfolio: For scholarship applicants, submit a portfolio detailing educational background, relevant experiences, and personal achievements.
- Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee as specified on the website.​
Tips to Win the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize any academic or professional experiences related to health and wellbeing.
- Strong Motivation Letter: Clearly articulate your interest in preventive health strategies and how the program aligns with your career goals.
- Academic Excellence: Maintain a strong academic record to enhance your competitiveness.
- Early Preparation: Begin gathering necessary documents and preparing your application well before the deadline.​
Application Timeline
- Application Opening: 15th November, 2025
- Application Deadline: 15th February 2026
- Selection Results: April 2026
- Program Commencement: September 2026​
Curriculum Structure of the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program
The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of preventive health strategies:​
- First Semester
- Second Semester
- Third Semester
- Fourth Semester
Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal
| Courses | ECTS |
|---|---|
| Public health and health promotion | 6 |
| Toxicology and the exposome | 6 |
| Digital Tools and Healthy Living | 5 |
| Regulatory framework of Non-drug Products | 5 |
| Entrepreneurship and Sustainability | 5 |
| Option 1 | 3 |
| Total | 30 |
University of the Balearic Islands, Spain
| Courses | ECTS |
|---|---|
| Lifestyle and Health | 6 |
| Nutrition Throughout the Lifespan | 6 |
| Physical Activity across the Lifespan | 6 |
| Nutrition and Feeding in Physical Activity and Sports | 3 |
| Food and Sustainability | 3 |
| Methods and Techniques in Health & Wellbeing Research | 3 |
| Option 2 | 3 |
| Total | 30 |
University of Belgrade, Serbia
| Courses | ECTS |
|---|---|
| Evidence based use of dietary products and cosmetics in health and wellness | 5 |
| Starting materials for non-drug products: environmental impact | 5 |
| Formulation, production, and testing of food supplements | 5 |
| Formulation, production, and testing of cosmetic products | 5 |
| Health economics and quality of life | 4 |
| Communication and Health Literacy | 3 |
| Option 3 | 3 |
| Total | 30 |
Fourth Semester: Internship/Master Thesis
| Course | Type | Area/EP | ECTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master Thesis | Mandatory | 30 | |
| Total | 30 |
The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for real-world challenges in health and wellbeing.​
Coordinator Contact
- For General Queries:
Email: hygieia@ulusofona.pt
Alumni Feedback
While the program is relatively new, initial feedback from participants highlights the value of its interdisciplinary approach and the opportunity to study in diverse cultural settings. Students appreciate the program’s focus on practical skills and its alignment with current health industry needs.​
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
What is the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program?
It is a two-year, English-taught master’s program focusing on preventive health strategies through non-pharmacological approaches.​
Who can apply for the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in health sciences or related fields and proficiency in English are eligible.​
What does the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend of €1,400 for up to 24 months.​
How is the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program structured?
The program includes coursework across three universities, focusing on nutrition, lifestyle education, and digital health tools, culminating in a research thesis.​
When does the application for the HYGIEIA Erasmus Mundus Program open?
Applications are expected to open in October 2025, with a deadline in February 2026.
