The MARIHE Erasmus Mundus programme is a two‑year, 120 ECTS Master’s degree taught entirely in English. It’s delivered by a global consortium spanning Europe and Asia, designed to equip students with the skills to lead research, innovation, and policy development in higher education. This joint/double‑degree programme begins each October and blends academic rigor with hands‑on experience across multiple institutions.
By studying in at least two countries, including mandatory mobility in Europe, students gain deep insights into higher education systems, governance, and innovation strategies. Additionally, specializations, internships, and master’s theses further enrich the learning journey, culminating in both academic and practical mastery.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-10-2024
- End date 30-11-2030
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The MARIHE Erasmus Mundus program offers students the opportunity to study at seven top-tier universities across Europe.
| University for Continuing Education Krems |
| Tampere University |
| Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück |
| Eötvös Loránd University |
| University of Aveiro |
| Beijing Normal University |
| Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology |
| Austria |
| Finland |
| Germany |
| Hungary |
| Portugal |
| China |
| India |
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 MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program
MARIHE Erasmus Mundus (Master in Research and Innovation in Higher Education) prepares future leaders to design, manage, and research higher education in an era of rapid change. It focuses on governance, sustainability, digital transformation, and policy analysis, cultivating both theoretical knowledge and professional competence.
Key features of the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program
- 120 ECTS over four semesters across Europe and Asia
- Joint or double degree awarded upon completion
- Two physical mobility periods (semesters 1 & 2) mandatory
- Two specializations: one in Asia (China or India) and one in Europe (five partner options)
- Internship worth 10 ECTS between semester 2 and 3
- Master’s thesis (25 ECTS) supervised by home and host universities
- Optional Erasmus+ mobility funding for self-funded students
Mobility tracks of the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1: Krems, Austria – core modules in governance, theory, research methods
- Semester 2: Tampere, Finland – focus on innovation, funding, entrepreneurship
- Internship (min. 8 weeks): global placements in higher education institutions (10 ECTS)
- Semester 3: In the first part of the 3rd semester, students will attend a specialization in Asia: Beijing Normal University (China) or Thapar Institute (India). In the second part students can choose from five different specialisation tracks in Europe.
- Semester 4: Masters thesis at university partners
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (3-year/180 ECTS) in any field
- Strong command of English: TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Cambridge C1/C2 or valid exemption
- CV (Europass), motivation letter, 2 recommendation letters, essay
- Passport/ID, transcripts, diploma (or proof of pending degree via template)
- Video submission for shortlisted candidates
How to apply for MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Application portal: MARIHE Moodle
- 2-step process: initial document submission ➝ notification of shortlist ➝ video submission
- Final selection results: February–March 2025
Tips to win the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Clearly articulate motivation aligned with higher education innovation and research
- Highlight academic excellence and multidisciplinary experience
- Detail any professional or volunteer experience in education sectors
- Secure strong academic/professional recommendation letters
- Submit a thoughtful, structured video—don’t underestimate its weight in Round 2
- Apply early and double-check all documents and templates
Application Timeline
| Phase | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | in September |
| Deadline (Step 1) | in November |
| Video request sent | January |
| Video submission deadline | January |
| Final results announced | Feb–Mar |
| Programme begins | October |
Curriculum Structure of the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1 (Krems, AU): six modules – governance, management, theory, teaching, research methods
- Semester 2 (Tampere, FI): six modules – funding, societal challenges, innovation, entrepreneurship, research methods
- Internship: 8+ weeks (10 ECTS) in HE institutions worldwide
- Semester 3 (Asia): Asia specialization modules and European specialization modules
- Semester 4 (Europe): master’s thesis under dual supervision (25 ECTS)
Coordinator Contact
Administrative Assistant, Danube University Krems
- Email: marihe@donau-uni.ac.at
Alumni Feedback
Though dynamic feedback persists, students describe a transformative “mini‑model” of HE systems. The diverse cohort, internship placements, and cross‑cultural experience are consistently praised. Many join networks like Erasmus Mundus Association and InTampere Talent, further enhancing post‑graduation opportunities.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
What makes the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program unique?
It’s a joint/double degree across Europe and Asia with mandatory mobility, internships, specializations, and a global perspective on HE research and innovation.
Can I apply for the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program if I already hold a master’s degree?
Yes, but if you already received an EMJMD scholarship, you’re not eligible for another Erasmus Mundus scholarship.
Is work experience required for the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program?
No, but relevant professional experience, especially in education, strengthens the application.
Can I apply for the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program as a self-funded student?
Yes. Self-funded applicants don’t pay participation fees and may receive a special MARIHE travel scholarship (up to €6,000).
Do I need to submit English test scores for the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, unless you meet clear exemption criteria (e.g., degrees taught in English in certain countries).
When will I get the results of my MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Program application?
Notifications are typically sent by February–March following submission.
