The TNGS Erasmus Mundus Master in Transnational German Studies is a two-year joint degree program that offers students the opportunity to study German literature, culture, and language across four European universities. Throughout the four semesters, students rotate between the University of Porto, the University of Luxembourg, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, and the University of Palermo. Upon completion, they receive a joint degree issued by all partner institutions.
The program provides an academic framework that examines German Studies from a transnational and interdisciplinary perspective. In addition to coursework, the curriculum includes professional development modules, internships, and mentorship opportunities with European cultural institutions. Courses are primarily conducted in German, with some modules in English and other local languages, preparing graduates for careers in academia, cultural management, publishing, and international institutions.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-02-2022
- End date 31-01-2028
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The TNGS Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in Transnational German Studies, offered by leading European universities.
| Universidade do Porto |
| Université du Luxembourg |
| Johannes Gutenberg‑Universität Mainz |
| Università degli Studi di Palermo |
| Portugal |
| Luxembourg |
| Germany |
| Italy |
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 TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program
The TNGS Erasmus Mundus programme is a two‑year, 120‑ECTS joint Master’s that combines German literature, cultural history, and language studies through four mobility semesters in four different countries. It includes three pillars: Culture & Language, Literature, and Employability & Competence promotion, ending with a dissertation and integrated internship
Key features of the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester mobility: one semester at each partner university, living and studying in a different country.
- Fully integrated curriculum with German and some courses in English or Portuguese.
- Joint degree from all four universities.
- Mentoring and professional partner network across Europe.
- Internship support and employability training.
- Scholarships covering tuition, travel, visa, living (€1,400/month for up to 24 months)
Mobility tracks of the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program
Full‑cohort mobility: Porto → Luxembourg → Mainz → Palermo (order may vary). You’re enrolled at all four institutions at once and move semester by semester. Coordinated by UPorto
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Humanities or equivalent, including at least ~50 ECTS in German Studies
- German language proficiency: CEFR B2 (e.g. Goethe‑Zertifikat B2, DSH 1, TestDaF TDN 3, telc B2)
- English level: usually B1 (depending on each university)
- Motivation letter, CV, academic transcripts, reference letters, passport/residence proof.
How to apply for TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Apply via the eMundus online portal, managed by UPorto
- Choose whether you’re applying for the scholarship track or self-funded track.
- Fill in personal info, upload documents including proof of language, transcripts, motivation, CV, letters.
Tips to win the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Clearly demonstrate passion for German culture and transnational Europe.
- Highlight any German language skills and cultural experience.
- Show adaptability, ready to move across four countries, work in diverse environments.
- Strong motivation letter: mention why each university appeals to you and how you’ll contribute.
- Highlight your humanities background, cultural insight, or intercultural experience.
Application Timeline
- Opens: December
- Deadline: February
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program
- Total ECTS: 120 over four semesters
- Year 1: two semesters of taught modules (Culture & Language; Literature)
- Year 2: semester of Employability & Promotion, plus dissertation semester and internship period
Coordinator Contact
Angelina Kircheva
Tel. (+352) 46 66 44 5780
angelina.kircheva@uni.lu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
It’s a two‑year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Transnational German Studies, featuring full mobility across four European universities leading to one joint MA degree.
Can I get a scholarship for the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, up to €1,400/month for up to 24 months covering tuition, travel, visa, and living expenses for selected EMJM scholars.
Do I need German language to apply for the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, proof of B2 German proficiency is required; English B1 is often required too.
How does mobility work in the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
You spend one semester at each partner university (Porto, Luxembourg, Mainz, Palermo) while being registered at all four institutions.
Who can apply to the TNGS Erasmus Mundus Program?
Any candidate with a Humanities bachelor’s degree, adequate German skills, and interest in European cultural studies and mobility.
