EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus Program in Advanced Design of Sustainable Ships and Offshore Structures

The EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program is a world-class Master’s course designed for students who want to build a strong career in naval architecture, marine engineering, and offshore energy. This 2-year program focuses on the advanced design of sustainable ships and offshore structures, combining innovation, engineering expertise, and global exposure. What makes the EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program special is its mobility tracks, which allow students to study in at least two top European universities. Along with this, students benefit from a full scholarship that covers tuition, living costs, and travel, making it one of the most attractive opportunities for international students in the field of ship and offshore design.

Graduates of the EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program receive a double or joint degree from leading European universities, such as Ghent University, Université de Liège, Centrale Nantes, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, and others. The program not only provides high-level technical knowledge but also creates strong links with the maritime industry, shipyards, research centers, and offshore renewable energy projects. With almost 98% of graduates finding employment within six months, EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus has become one of the most successful Erasmus Mundus programs in Europe. It is the perfect choice for ambitious engineers who want an international career in sustainable ship and offshore structure design.

Project Status

• Status: Ongoing and active program with yearly intakes
• Start date: September every year
• End date: Two years after enrollment (24 months total)
• Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree program

Description of the EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program

The EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program is a two-year international Master’s course fully taught in English. It trains students in the advanced design of ships, offshore structures, and floating energy systems. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on project experience while studying across multiple partner universities. The program emphasizes sustainability and prepares graduates to meet the growing global demand for environmentally friendly shipbuilding and offshore solutions.

Key features of the EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program

• Duration: 2 years (120 ECTS)
• Double or joint Master’s degree from two partner universities
• Scholarships covering tuition fees, travel, insurance, and living costs
• Study in at least two different European countries
• Internship and thesis opportunities with industry or academic partners
• 98% employment rate within six months of graduation

Mobility tracks of the EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program

• First Year: Core courses at Ghent University in Belgium or Dunărea de Jos University in Romania
• Second Year: Specialization at partner universities in France, Germany, Portugal, Spain, or Belgium
• Final Semester: Master’s thesis with partner universities or international industry collaborators

Admission Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in engineering, preferably mechanical, naval architecture, or marine technology
• Strong academic background in mathematics, mechanics, fluids, and programming
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, or equivalent)
• Motivation letter, CV, recommendation letters, and legalized transcripts

How to apply for EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program

Applicants must submit their documents through the official online portal. The application requires a CV, motivation letter, transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and recommendation letters. Candidates applying for scholarships should submit before the main deadline in December, while self-funded applicants may have extended deadlines depending on visa requirements. Selected candidates are invited for an interview before final admission.

Tips to win the EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program

• Apply early and avoid last-minute submission
• Write a strong motivation letter showing interest in sustainable ship design
• Highlight academic strengths in mathematics, mechanics, and marine technology
• Provide excellent recommendation letters from professors or employers
• Prepare for the interview with a clear scientific presentation

Application Timeline

Curriculum Structure of the EMSHIP Erasmus Mundus program

The program consists of 120 ECTS over two years. The first year focuses on fundamental courses in ship hydrodynamics, structural mechanics, and marine systems. The second year offers specialization tracks, such as offshore structures, hydrodynamics, logistics, or offshore renewable energy. The final semester is dedicated to a Master’s thesis, often in collaboration with the maritime industry. Students also participate in the annual “EMSHIP Week,” a networking and career event with alumni, professors, and industry experts.

Coordinator Contact

• Main Coordinator: Université de Liège, Belgium
• Contact: International Relations Office – EMSHIP Program

Alumni Feedback

I had great chance to join EMShip on second cohort as delegate. It was entirely complementary program in terms of profession and friendship by linking people from all around the world under the great European universities.

~Murat Tosun

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)