The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Food Innovation and Product Design (FIPDes) is a highly sought-after program designed for students passionate about innovation in the food sector. This program, supported by the Erasmus+ initiative of the European Union, provides an opportunity for students to study food innovation and design across multiple prestigious European institutions. It aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to lead innovation in the global food industry while addressing challenges such as sustainability, consumer trends, and health-consciousness.
This scholarship provides the recipient with a full financial package that covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance for the duration of the program. On top of this, the program offers a unique opportunity to study in different European countries each semester, exposing students to diverse food cultures, cutting-edge technologies, and industry leaders. Participants also benefit from networking with top professionals and researchers, which strengthens their career prospects in the food sector.
The scholarship provides the recipient a value of thousands of dollars per year, depending on their geographical location and the specific costs related to the program. Typically, the scholarship covers the full 2-year duration of the master’s program, offering recipients substantial financial relief, allowing them to focus on their studies and professional growth.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s degree
- Institution(s): Université Paris-Saclay (France), University of Naples Federico II (Italy), Dublin Institute of Technology (Ireland), AgroParisTech (France)
- Study in: France, Italy, Ireland, Sweden
- Opportunity Focus Areas: Food Innovation, Product Design, Sustainability in Food Systems, Entrepreneurship in Food Innovation
- Program Period: 2 years
- Deadline: Varies annually (usually in January/February)
Courses Offered in This Scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus FIPDes program offers a wide range of courses that focus on various aspects of food innovation and product design. Some of the core subjects include:
- Food Product Development: Students are taught advanced techniques in food product development, including research methodologies, market analysis, and sensory evaluation.
- Food Packaging and Logistics: This course focuses on the innovation and sustainability in food packaging, an essential part of the food industry, offering students insights into reducing environmental impact.
- Food Quality Management: Students explore the key aspects of ensuring food safety, quality standards, and regulatory requirements in global markets.
- Sustainable Food Production: The course addresses the challenges in creating sustainable food systems and how to innovate for future food needs.
The program not only prepares students with technical skills but also provides them with a comprehensive understanding of the industry through internships, projects, and field trips. These experiences give students practical exposure to real-world challenges and enhance their employability after graduation.
Program Period for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree FIPDes
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree FIPDes is a two-year program, structured in four semesters. Each semester is held in a different European country, offering students a truly international and immersive learning experience. The first semester typically starts in France, followed by rotations in Italy and Ireland, with the final semester being dedicated to internships and the master’s thesis. This unique structure allows students to experience the food industry from different cultural and academic perspectives.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree FIPDes
The Erasmus Mundus FIPDes scholarship is highly comprehensive and covers a wide range of expenses, making it an attractive option for students. The scholarship benefits include:
- Full Tuition Coverage: All tuition fees for the two-year program are fully covered, ensuring that recipients do not have to worry about educational expenses.
- Monthly Living Allowance: Scholarship recipients receive a generous monthly stipend to cover their living expenses, which varies depending on the student’s home country but typically amounts to around €1,000 to €1,500 per month.
- Travel Costs: The scholarship covers travel expenses between the different European countries where the program is held. Additional allowances are provided for travel to and from the student’s home country.
- Health Insurance: Full medical coverage is provided to all scholarship holders, ensuring that they have access to healthcare throughout their studies in Europe.
- Research and Internship Funding: The program also supports students financially during their internships and research projects, offering additional funds for laboratory costs and research materials.
These benefits make the Erasmus Mundus FIPDes scholarship one of the most prestigious and competitive programs in food innovation and product design.
Eligibility Criteria for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree FIPDes
To be eligible for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree FIPDes, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Requirements:
- A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, Chemistry, or other related fields.
- Strong academic performance in relevant subjects such as biology, chemistry, or food science.
- Language Proficiency:
- Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (with no section below 6.0) is typically required.
- Proficiency in additional languages such as French or Italian is advantageous but not mandatory.
- Nationality:
- Students from both European and non-European countries are eligible to apply. Preference is often given to applicants from non-EU countries for a higher level of financial support.
- Motivation and Professional Goals:
- Applicants must submit a motivational letter explaining their interest in food innovation and product design, their career aspirations, and how the FIPDes program aligns with their professional goals.
- Work Experience (Optional):
- While not a strict requirement, having prior experience in the food industry or related sectors can strengthen an applicant’s profile.
How to Apply for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree FIPDes
The application process for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree FIPDes involves several key steps:
- Online Application:
- Applicants must complete the online application form available on the official FIPDes website.
- Submit Required Documents:
- A completed application form.
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and degrees.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
- A detailed CV outlining educational background, professional experience, and skills.
- A motivational letter explaining the reasons for applying and career goals.
- Recommendation Letters:
- Applicants must provide two recommendation letters from academic or professional references who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications and potential.
- Interview (If Required):
- Some applicants may be shortlisted for an interview to further assess their suitability for the program.
- Application Deadline:
- The application deadline typically falls in January or February each year. Applicants are advised to check the official website for specific dates.
Website for Apply Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree FIPDes
For more detailed information about the program, eligibility requirements, and the application process, interested candidates can visit the official FIPDes website: