MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus is a leading international Master’s program in Materials Science, designed to train students in advanced techniques and the use of large-scale facilities such as synchrotrons, neutron reactors, and free-electron lasers. This two-year program is fully taught in English and offers world-class education across top European universities. From the very first semester, students gain strong knowledge in physics, chemistry, and materials science while experiencing research-oriented training. The MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus program stands out because it combines scientific education with hands-on work at research facilities, making it one of the most unique Erasmus Mundus Master courses.
Over two years, students study at multiple European universities through a mobility track, attend a dedicated summer school, and complete a research thesis at a partner university or a large-scale facility. The program awards a joint or multiple Master’s degree, highly recognized worldwide. With full funding opportunities available, MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus attracts top international students who want to advance in academia, research, or industry. For anyone passionate about materials science, characterization, and advanced research, MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus is a life-changing opportunity.
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Project Status
- Status: Active and renewed for the next five years
- Start date: Originally launched in 2007, renewed multiple times
- End date: Ongoing under Erasmus+ renewal period
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus program offers a two-year Master’s in Materials Science across top European universities, with a focus on large-scale research facilities.
| University of Rennes |
| University of Montpellier |
| Technical University of Munich |
| Ludwig‑Maximilians‑Universität Münche |
| University of Torino |
| Adam Mickiewicz University |
| France |
| Germany |
| Italy |
| Poland |
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 MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus program
MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus (Master in Materials Science Exploring Large-Scale Facilities) is a two-year program worth 120 ECTS credits. It focuses on advanced materials, their characterization, and the use of large scientific facilities. Courses cover solid-state physics, chemistry, crystallography, nanoscience, and materials engineering. Students experience theoretical training, laboratory work, and applied research, ensuring they are fully prepared for both industry and PhD-level studies.
Key features of the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus program
- Entire program taught in English
- Mobility between at least two universities in different European countries
- Summer school focused on large-scale research facilities
- Joint or multiple Master’s degree awarded at the end of studies
- Research-based Master’s thesis in the final semester
- Exposure to world-class facilities such as synchrotrons and neutron sources
Mobility tracks of the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus program
- Year 1: Both semesters at one university within the consortium
- Year 2, Semester 3: Study at a different university in another country
- Year 2, Semester 4: Master’s thesis at a university or a large-scale research facility
- Compulsory summer school at the beginning of the second year
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS) in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Geoscience, or related field
- Strong academic record with relevant coursework
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Letters of recommendation and motivation letter explaining research goals
- Open to both EU and non-EU students
How to apply for MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus program
- Complete the online application form on the official portal
- Upload academic transcripts, degree certificates, English test scores, and CV
- Provide letters of recommendation and a detailed motivation letter
- Select preferred universities for mobility tracks
- Indicate if applying for Erasmus Mundus scholarship or self-funded position
Tips to win the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus program
- Highlight strong background in physics, chemistry, or material sciences
- Write a clear motivation letter linking your goals with the program’s focus on large-scale facilities
- Obtain strong recommendation letters from professors or research supervisors
- Emphasize any research or laboratory experience you already have
- Apply early to avoid missing deadlines
- Ensure all documents are translated and certified where necessary
Application Timeline
| Stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Non-EU applications (with scholarship) | 5 February 2025 |
| EU applications (with scholarship) | 20 March 2025 |
| Self-funded applications | 15 May 2025 |
| Program start | September 2025 |
Curriculum Structure of the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus program
- Duration: 2 years, 120 ECTS
- Year 1 (Semesters 1 & 2): Core lectures and laboratory training at the first university (60 ECTS)
- Year 2 (Semester 3): Advanced lectures at a second partner university (30 ECTS)
- Summer School: Compulsory, includes training on large-scale facilities (7 ECTS)
- Year 2 (Semester 4): Master’s thesis (30 ECTS) at a partner university, research lab, or large-scale facility
Coordinator Contact
- Academic Coordinator: Professor Philippe Rabiller
- Administrative Coordinators: Elisa Borfecchia and Elisabetta Buzzoni
- University Contact: University of Rennes 1, France
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus Program unique?
It merges top-tier Materials Science curriculum with real-world use of large-scale facilities like ESRF, DESY, and more—where theory meets high-impact experimental research.
Who is eligible to apply for the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus Program?
Any student with a Bachelor’s in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Geoscience or a related discipline and good English skills. Engineers are welcome, except mechanical/mechatronics unless well-grounded in physics/chemistry
How many scholarships does the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus Program offer?
Scholarships are awarded based on rankings—non‑EU students may receive €43k total, EU students €37k, per Erasmus+ funding guidelines .
Is knowledge of synchrotron or neutron methods required for MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus?
Nope! Introductory-level courses form part of Semester 1, plus the summer school provides hands-on training.
Is the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus Program fully taught in English?
Yes, all courses and communication are in English—no need to know French, German, or Italian, but learning them is encouraged!
How competitive is the MaMaSELF Erasmus Mundus Program?
It’s quite competitive, especially for Erasmus+ scholarships. A strong academic background and well-written motivation letter make all the difference.
