CHARM-EU Master’s Degree Program in “Global Challenges for Sustainable Development”: Applications Now Open

[Article] - Published on February 10, 2025 in Admissions & Enrollment, Erasmus+ Training Projects, CHARM-EU European University

A new application period is now open for students wishing to enroll in the international master’s degree program “Global Challenges for Sustainability” starting in September 2025. This master’s program is a joint degree awarded by the nine universities of the European Charm-EU alliance, including the University of Montpellier. Interested students, regardless of their field of study, are invited to submit their applications from February 24 to March 16, 2025.

The master’s degree program “Global Challenges for Sustainability” is now offered jointly by the nine universities of the Charm-EU alliance of European universities. Recognized in France as an institutional degree conferring a master’s degree, this international program offers students a highly flexible hybrid course structure, an international environment focused on mobility and intercultural exchange, a stimulating transdisciplinary approach, and innovative, challenge-based pedagogy. Please note that at least one semester-long study abroad period at a university in the Charm-EU alliance is mandatory.

Over the course of the two-year program, the curriculum consists of four distinct phases, each lasting one semester:

the "preparatory" phase, focused on the acquisition of general skills, particularly in the areas of sustainability, social innovation, and transdisciplinary research;
the "flexible" phase, during which students choose to take modules in one of the program's four thematic areas: water, food, health and life sciences, energy, and sustainable cities;
the “internship” phase, which provides the opportunity to complete a professional internship in various types of organizations (private companies, public institutions, nongovernmental organizations, research laboratories, etc.);
the "Capstone" phase, during which students work collaboratively with their peers, faculty, and external stakeholders (such as businesses or organizations) on a real-world sustainability challenge in Europe or around the world.

This international master’s degree is designed to prepare graduates for careers in fields such as social innovation, sustainable entrepreneurship, project management, and research, as it aligns learning with the needs of both the private sector and civil society while fostering a wide range of skills relevant to the job market.

External partners and other stakeholders play an active role in the curriculum, enabling students to engage with the business, nonprofit, and institutional sectors, build a strong professional network, and prepare to work with companies and institutions around the world.

Applicants must demonstrate C1-level proficiency in English and hold a bachelor’s degree in any field. A desire to tackle environmental challenges and a commitment to a sustainable world are key hiring criteria.

Enrollment is free for European students (EU/EFTA) who completed the 2024–2025 academic year at a French institution of higher education. If this is not the case, the cost for the two-year program is €5,000 for European students and €24,000 for students from outside Europe.