Feeding the worlds growing population while protecting the planet is a huge challenge. Plant breeders are vital for creating crops that survive drought, disease and climate change. The emPLANT Erasmus Mundus Master trains new plant scientists to solve these problems.
This two year master program has 120 ECTS credits. It is taught by six leading European universities. Students learn modern breeding and biotechnology methods. They also gain skills in management, law and intercultural communication. Graduates are ready for jobs in seed companies, research labs or for PhD studies.
Key Points of emPLANT Erasmus Mundus
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 years (120 ECTS) |
| Language | English |
| Focus | Plant breeding, seed technology, biotech, law, languages |
| Mobility | Study in at least two countries |
| Scholarships | Available through Erasmus+ (first call) |
Host Universities
- BOKU University (Austria)
- Università degli Studi di Milano (Italy)
- Institut Polytechnique UniLaSalle (France)
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (Sweden)
- Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Hungary)
- Universitat Politècnica de València (Spain)
Also See: MAEH Erasmus Mundus 2026 | Master in Applied Ecohydrology
Why Choose emPLANT?
- Tackle global issues: Learn to breed crops that fight hunger and adapt to a changing climate
- Multidisciplinary training: Mix biology and genetics with business and legal skills
- International experience: Live and study in different countries to gain cultural and language skills
- Strong industry ties: The program partners with seed companies and research institutes for internships
- Diverse careers: Graduates work in seed companies, start businesses join R&D labs or study for a PhD
Program Structure
Year 1: Foundation (60 ECTS)
Students start at one of three universities—UniLaSalle in France, the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), or the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE). Key topics include:
- Breeding strategies and crop genetics
- Population genetics and statistics
- Plant pathology and plant–microbe interactions
- Seed technology and experimental design
- Field camps, pilot projects and an initial internship
- Language training (French or Spanish)
Year 2: Specialization and Thesis (60 ECTS)
Students move to one of the other partner universities for deeper study:
- Spain (UPV): Advanced plant breeding and biotech
- Austria (BOKU): Industrial breeding and seed business
- Italy (UMIL): Seed technology and breeding innovations
The second year ends with a master’s thesis and optional internships, often within industry or research centres.
Mobility Pathways
Students study in at least two countries. A typical sequence might be:
- Year 1: France or Sweden or Hungary
- Year 2: Spain or Austria or Italy
The exact path depends on your chosen focus and available places. This mobility builds intercultural skills and strengthens professional networks.
Also See: REM Erasmus Mundus Master in Renewable Energy 2026 | Marine Environment
Admission Requirements
- A Bachelors degree with at least 180 ECTS in agriculture or a related science.
- A strong background in the fields:
- Chemistry
- Plant production
- Physics
- Botany
- Maths and stats
- Genetics
- Pathology and breeding.
- Proof of English skill (tests might be needed).
- Other needs can vary by university, so always check the official websites
- Required Documents:
- Proof of residency,
- Academic records,
- Motivation letters,
- References,
- CV and any required language certificates.
How to Apply?
- First call (October–mid‑January): Apply through the emPLANT+ website to be considered for Erasmus+ scholarships.
- Second call (mid‑January–end February): For self‑funded candidates only.
- Gather and upload the documents which are mentioned above.
- Submit before the deadline, late applications aren’t considered.
Career Opportunities
Graduates from emPLANT can:
- Join the seed and breeding industry as plant breeders or R&D specialists.
- Work in public or private research labs on crop improvement or biotechnology.
- Start their own agricultural ventures or consultancies.
- Continue with PhD studies in plant science, genetics or related fields.