The IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Marine Biological Resources is a rigorous, two-year joint Master’s programme organized by eleven prestigious European universities and supported by the European Marine Biological Resource Centre (EMBRC). It merges the core strengths of marine biology, conservation, and the blue bio-economy—built upon the foundation of its predecessor, the EMBC+ programme.
Rooted in interdisciplinary excellence, the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus programme is designed to be super-mobil—literally. Students can hop across as many as eight different countries during their studies, experiencing a blend of thematic modules, hands-on professional practice, summer schools, and culminating in a thesis project anywhere globally accessible
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 15-09-2020
- End date 14-09-2026
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in Marine Biological Resources offered by leading European universities.
| Ghent University |
| Atlantic Technological University |
| University of Gothenburg |
| Sorbonne University |
| University of Oviedo |
| Belgium |
| Ireland |
| Sweden |
| France |
| 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 IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program
At its core, the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus programme builds a bridge between marine organism biology, environmental studies, policy, and conservation. It emphasizes a forward-looking engagement with marine biological resources in line with the evolving blue bio-economy and research imperatives
Key Features of the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program
- Mobility-rich design: up to eight countries and multiple universities across two years
- Fundamental, thematic, and specialization modules: structured semesters with flexibility to tailor study paths
- Professional Practice & Summer School: real-world experience via partner placements and in-person summer school in Tjärnö, Sweden
- Annual Symposium: presentation of thesis work and network building among peers and faculty
- Deep interdisciplinary and research-based learning: aimed at building adaptability, life-skills, and future-ready marine professionals
Mobility Tracks of the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1: Fundamental Modules across partner universities.
- Semester 2: Thematic Modules paired with Professional Practice placements.
- End of Summer: Intensive Summer School at Tjärnö Marine Station, Sweden.
- Semester 3: Specialized tracks aligning with labor-market demands.
- Semester 4: Thesis—conducted at a location of the student’s choosing.
- Annual Symposium: an academic highlight to wrap the year
Admission Requirements
- A Bachelor’s (or equivalent) in relevant fields—biology, ecology, marine sciences, environmental sciences, biotechnology, etc.—totaling at least 180 ECTS. Final-year students are considered if they graduate before September 1 of the intake year
- English proficiency via TOEFL (≥ 570 paper / 87 internet), IELTS (≥ 6.5), Cambridge FCE A/B, university-issued proof, or CEF-level B2. Waivers may apply if instruction was in English for at least a year
How to Apply for IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program
- Applications are submitted online—next call opens in autumn 2025 for the 2026-2027 cohort
- Required documents: valid passport/ID, Europass CV, academic transcripts and degree, language proficiency proof, contact details for two academic referees, reference letters, and a complete motivation statement tailored per semester module choice
Tips to Win the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program
- Craft tailored motivation for each semester university choice—highlight fit and passion (red-hot focus, not generic!)
- Explore scholarship opportunities: EMJMD Erasmus+ scholarships are available (~20 per year; ~3–5 for programme-country students, 15–17 for partner-countries)
- Rank and justify mobility preferences wisely—you may get 2nd or 3rd choices, so think strategy
- Apply early—places are limited per module, and competition is fierce
- Demonstrate research orientation and adaptability—IMBRSea values flexibility and independent thinking
- Leverage unique strengths—like fieldwork, labs, or policy interest—to stand out among top applicants.
Application Timeline
- Opens: October
- Deadline: January
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1: Fundamental Modules at one of several partner universities.
- Semester 2: Thematic Modules and Professional Practice placements.
- Summer: Summer School at Tjärnö Marine Station.
- Semester 3: Specialization tracks plus an online preparatory course (6 ECTS).
- Semester 4: Independent Thesis work (anywhere in the world).
- Annual Symposium: Thesis presentations and networking venue
Coordinator Contact
Email: info@imbrsea.eu
Alumni Feedback
I met wonderful people from all over the world and different cultures who are now friends and colleagues for life, and with whom I shared rich research training. I experienced various and diverse marine environments and research labs, with great teaching and professors. Certainly, among the best moments of my life.
~Ludovic Hoarau
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program?
A two-year Erasmus Mundus joint Master’s in Marine Biological Resources, hosted by eleven European universities and supported by EMBRC.
What are the admission requirements for the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants need a relevant Bachelor’s (180 ECTS), English proficiency, transcripts, references, CV, and motivation statements.
Can I get a scholarship for the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes—Erasmus+ EMJMD scholarships and mobility grants are available, though in limited numbers.
What support does the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program offer for visa and logistics?
The programme provides official admission letters, insurance documentation, and guidance to assist visa/residence permit procedures
What does the curriculum look like in the IMBRSea Erasmus Mundus Program?
It includes fundamental and thematic modules, professional practice, a summer school, specialization, and a thesis.
