The MAiSI Erasmus Mundus (Master of Arts in Sports Ethics and Integrity) is a unique, full-time, two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree that equips students with cutting-edge knowledge and practical tools in the critical field of sports ethics, compliance, and governance. Delivered through a consortium of top-tier European institutions, this multidisciplinary programme combines rigorous theoretical groundwork with real-world applicability, preparing graduates to champion integrity within the global sports sector.
MAiSI develops core competencies in identifying ethical challenges, applying critical moral reasoning, and transforming decisions into ethical actions at the highest levels of sports administration and governance. With partners spanning across Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, and Greece, the programme offers a truly international academic journey.
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 MAiSI Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in Sports Ethics and Integrity offered by leading European universities.
| Belgium |
| Germany |
| Spain |
| Greece |
| Czech Republic |
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 MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program
MAiSI Erasmus Mundus is designed to foster ethical leadership within sports governance. It trains students to tackle issues including anti-doping, integrity regulation, inclusion, fair play, safe sport, and Olympic governance, through a curriculum that blends philosophy, law, management, and applied ethics. This two-year, full-time programme is delivered across a rotating campus network, ensuring students gain diverse perspectives and experiences.
Key Features of the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum covering ethics, law, governance, doping, disability sport, and Olympic studies
- Mobility-Integrated Learning via study in multiple European countries across semesters
- Strong Professional Network linking students to sports bodies, NGOs, policy makers, and academic hubs
- Robust Alumni Impact, with graduates now working for IOC, IPC, World Athletics, NOCs, UNODC, and more
- Generous Funding Options, including Erasmus+ scholarships and Olympic Solidarity support
Mobility Tracks of the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1: KU Leuven (Belgium) – Ethics, integrity discourse, anti-doping law, inclusion, equality.
- Semester 2: Charles University, Prague (Czech Republic) – Fair play, Paralympic ethics, Olympic studies, research methods via summer school.
- Semester 3: Mainz (Germany) or Barcelona (Spain) – Governance, management, law, thesis initiation.
- Semester 4: Hosted at consortium partner of choice (depends on thesis specialty) + summer school at University of Peloponnese (Greece) focusing on Olympism and finishing the Master’s thesis.
Admission Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in any field; disciplines of interest include law, philosophy, social sciences, governance, sports studies, ethics, disability studies, etc.
- Proof of English proficiency: IELTS ≥ 6.5 (min 5.5 each section), or TOEFL iBT ≥ 80 (min 19 each), or C1 Advanced/ C2 Proficiency score ≥ 176.
- References: Two recommendation letters (at least one academic) on official letterhead.
- Selection Criteria: Academic excellence, relevant experience, motivation, followed by online interview for shortlisted candidates.
How to Apply for MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Visit the official programme page or KU Leuven admissions portal to access application guidelines and documents
- Prepare required documents: transcripts, CV, motivation letter, proof of language, reference letters.
- Submit online via the Admissions office, ensuring proper category (non-EEA or EEA)
- Apply within deadlines.
Tips to Win the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Showcase interdisciplinary passion—tie your background to ethics, sport, governance, or inclusion.
- Craft a standout motivation letter—explicitly connect your aims with MAiSI’s values.
- Secure strong references—choose referees who know your academic or professional caliber.
- Highlight unique experience—volunteer work, projects in integrity or sport, leadership roles.
- Prepare for interview—be ready to discuss ethical dilemmas in sports and your vision for integrity in sport.
- Apply early, especially for non-EEA, to allow wiggle room for document delays.
Application Timeline
| Timeline | Action |
|---|---|
| Non-EEA Deadline | April |
| EEA Deadline | July |
| Application Opens | Likely opens several months before – check the official page. |
| Interview Stage | After shortlisting—date variable. |
| Decision & Enrollment | Typically by late summer for autumn intake. |
Curriculum Structure of the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Year 1, Semester 1 (KU Leuven): Sports Ethics, Integrity Discourses, Anti-doping ethics & law, Inclusion & Equality, Safe Sport topics.
- Year 1, Semester 2 (Charles University + UoP Summer School): Fair play, Paralympic ethics, Olympic studies, research methods.
- Year 2, Semester 3 (Mainz or UPF): Governance, integrity law, management, thesis development initiation.
- Year 2, Semester 4 (Any partner + Summer School): Thesis completion and final Olympic studies module.
Coordinator Contact
E-mail: maisi@kuleuven.be
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program all about?
MAiSI Erasmus Mundus is a two-year, full-time Joint Master Degree focused on sports ethics and integrity, taught across five European institutions.
Who can apply for the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline, meeting English language requirements and submitting all necessary documents, are eligible
How do I apply for the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program?
Submit your application online via the consortium institution (e.g., KU Leuven Admissions), including transcripts, references, motivation letter, and language test scores, by the deadline.
What makes the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program special?
Its interdisciplinary curriculum, mobility across top European universities, robust funding, and strong alumni network in global sports integrity.
Is the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program fully funded?
Yes, selected students can receive Erasmus+ scholarships covering tuition, travel, installation, and living costs. Self-funded places are also available.
What career opportunities are available after completing the MAiSI Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates often work in international sports organizations, Olympic committees, anti-doping agencies, NGOs, policy advisory roles, and academic institutions.
