The MESPOM Consortium of four universities – Central European University (Austria), Lund University (Sweden), the University of Manchester (UK), and the University of the Aegean (Greece) – is inviting applications for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management (MESPOM) for studies in 2025-2027. 

Overview 

Since 2005, MESPOM has prepared its students for solving complex environmental sustainability problems, especially in an international context. It offers a multi- and inter-disciplinary curriculum that challenges students to integrate theory and practice for rigorous analysis and effective management of environmental issues in various social settings. In addition to their academic work, students acquire research, communication and other cross-cutting skills, engage with real-life practice in business, government, non-profit and academia, learn to orient themselves in European and worldwide networks of environmental professionals, and develop effective career strategies.  

MESPOM partners provide a cohesive programme which exposes students to diversity of geographic perspectives (including Scandinavian, Mediterranean, and British) and complementary professional competences (policy, management and science). 11 Associated Partners connect MESPOM students to academic and professional networks in 9 countries of 4 continents. 

MESPOM is an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree supported by the Erasmus Mundus programme of the European Commission. 

Programme structure 

The MESPOM study programme of 120 ECTS credits lasts 24 months. The fall and winter terms of the first year are hosted by Central European University (CEU, Vienna) and include an introductory module followed by advanced elective courses on contemporary environmental sustainability challenges and cross-cutting competencies. The spring term is hosted by the University of the Aegean (Lesvos, Greece) and includes environmental science courses related to land, water and ecosystems management as well as sustainable tourism. In summer, students take internships supervised by MESPOM faculty and hosted by Associated Partners or other organisations.   

During the fall term of the second year, students study at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics at Lund University (Sweden) focusing on Environment, Industry and Products or at the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences of the University of Manchester (UK) focusing on Environment and Pollution Control. Students spend the 4th (thesis) term at any of the Consortium partners according to their academic and professional interests. Throughout their studies, MESPOM students specialise in cutting-edge topics such as sustainable energy and climate change, biodiversity and conservation, urban sustainability, sustainable consumption and production, and environmental security and justice.  

MESPOM Students 

In order to create a diverse and stimulating learning environment, MESPOM strives to achieve a balance between geographic and disciplinary backgrounds of its students. The 579 MESPOM students admitted in 2005-2024 come from over 70 countries of five continents. 

Career opportunities 

MESPOM alumni work in governments, the UN, academia, industry and the non-profit sector worldwide. Many have chosen to return to their home countries whereas others have stayed in Europe, including for pursuing PhD degrees. The careers of selected MESPOM graduates are described on the MESPOM website.  

Financial aid 

The European Commission’s Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) scholarships are offered to outstanding students from both within and outside Europe. The scholarships cover travel, visa, installation and subsistence costs for the whole duration of the programme. 
(Further details at mespom.eu/finances). 

Entry requirements 

MESPOM invites applicants from all countries. Successful applicants must have a good first degree (3.5 GPA or above, a Bachelor or analogue) in a subject related to environmental sciences, policy or management, in the natural or social sciences, engineering or management. Candidates with other first degrees will also be considered if they show commitment to environmental challenges, usually through voluntary or professional work. All applicants should demonstrate proficiency in English. Admission to MESPOM is highly competitive and is based on the academic and intellectual excellence of applicants as well as their motivation and prior experience.  

Central European University organizes the application process on behalf of the MESPOM Consortium. All applications for the 2025-2027 study period should be submitted online, along with the necessary documents, by the following deadlines: 

February 4, 2025: For individuals applying for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarships 
April 15, 2025: For self-financing applicants who are citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA area and require a study visa 
July 1, 2025: For self-financing applicants who are citizens of EU/EEA countries  

More information on the eligibility and application process can be found here. 

Application materials must be submitted via the online application form of CEU. 

Selected applicants will be requested to provide proof of residency.

Contact and additional information 

Additional information is available on https://mespom.eu/ or by writing to the MESPOM Consortium Coordinator (coordinator@mespom.eu). Interested candidates are encouraged to use the Facebook group ‘Study at MESPOM’ and follow us also on other social media channels below to find answers to their questions about the programme.

Call for Applications 2025-2027