The WAVES Erasmus Mundus Master’s program (Waves, Acoustics, Vibrations, Engineering and Sound) is a two-year international degree taught in English. It is supported by the Erasmus+ initiative of the European Union and awards graduates with multiple national diplomas plus a joint diploma supplement.
This program gives students a strong base in acoustics, sound and vibration engineering. It blends theory with hands-on practice and prepares you for global careers in industries such as transport, aerospace, audio, musical acoustics, environmental noise control, and structural monitoring. Also Read CNE Erasmus Mundus Master 2026 – Chemical Nano Engineering.
Key Facts
| Degree: | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s |
| Duration: | 2 years (120 ECTS) |
| Language: | Fully in English |
| Universities: | Portugal, Spain, France |
| Final Thesis: | Internship-based (industry or research lab) |
| Scholarships: | Erasmus+ covers tuition, travel, and living allowance |
Partner Universities
Students rotate between several leading European universities:
- University of Coimbra (Portugal)
- Polytechnic University of Valencia (Spain)
- Aix-Marseille University (France)
- École Centrale Marseille (France)
What Makes WAVES Special?
- Mobility: Study in three countries and complete your thesis through an international internship.
- Industry Access: The program works with over 40 partners worldwide, opening doors for placements and jobs.
- Innovative Learning: Uses flipped classrooms, group projects, and real-world problem-solving instead of only lectures.
- Wide Career Paths: From sustainable transport systems to audio devices and ocean acoustics, WAVES graduates are in demand.
Study Plan and Mobility
- Semester 1 in Coimbra, Portugal
Courses in building acoustics, structural dynamics, sound insulation, vibration basics, and measurements. - Semester 2 in Valencia, Spain
Focus on experimental and numerical methods, room acoustics, musical and underwater acoustics, and psychoacoustics. - Semester 3 in Marseille, France
Advanced topics like aeroacoustics, nonlinear systems, environmental acoustics, acoustic imaging, and metamaterials. - Semester 4 – Worldwide Internship
Internship in industry or research labs, leading to a thesis defense.
See Also: LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Master 2026 | Accelerators & Lasers
Admission Requirements
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in acoustics, physics, mathematics, civil/mechanical/electrical engineering, or computer science (minimum 180 ECTS).
- English: CEFR B2 level or above (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, or proof of English-taught degree).
- Documents Needed:
- Europass CV
- Motivation letter (max 500 words)
- Academic transcripts and diplomas (with translations if required)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Passport or ID
- 2 reference letters
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Write a clear motivation letter explaining your interest in acoustics and your career goals.
- Highlight projects or research you’ve done in sound, vibration, or engineering.
- Get strong references from professors who know your academic ability.
- Show your flexibility for mobility and readiness to live in different countries.
- Submit early to avoid last-minute issues.
Application Timeline
- Opens: November
- Deadline: January
- Results: April/May
- Program Start: September
How to Apply? WAVES Erasmus Mundus Master 2026
- Go to the official WAVES Erasmus Mundus website.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Submit before the January deadline.
- Wait for the selection results (April/May).
Students are placed in main list, reserve list, or rejected.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of WAVES work in:
- Transport and Aerospace → designing quieter planes, trains, and cars
- Environmental Noise Control → reducing urban noise pollution
- Audio Engineering → improving sound devices, microphones, and speakers
- Maritime and Oceanography → underwater acoustics, sonar systems
- Research and PhD → advanced studies in acoustics and vibrations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What degree do I get after completing WAVES?
A: Multiple national Master’s degrees plus a joint diploma supplement.
Q: Is the WAVES program taught in English?
A: Yes, the program is fully in English.
Q: Do I need an acoustics background to apply?
A: You need a degree in a related field such as physics, engineering, or computer science.
Q: Is an internship included?
A: Yes, the fourth semester is a 4–6 month internship that leads to your thesis.
Q: Are Erasmus+ scholarships available?
A: Yes, selected students get funding that covers tuition, travel, and living costs.