Economics of Globalisation and European Integration (Erasmus Mundus)

The Erasmus Mundus Master's Programme in Economics of Globalisation and European Integration is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary postgraduate degree designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the economic processes shaping our interconnected world. This programme is offered jointly by the University of Antwerp, Belgium, and other leading European universities, fostering a truly international academic environment that encourages multicultural exchange and collaboration. The curriculum integrates theoretical economic frameworks with practical analysis of globalisation phenomena, European integration policies, and their impacts on national and international markets. Students will explore topics such as international trade, fiscal and monetary policy, economic development, regional integration, and the political economy of global governance, equipping them with analytical skills necessary to address complex economic issues faced by governments, international organizations, and the private sector. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative methods, and policy-oriented research, preparing graduates for careers in international institutions, think tanks, governmental agencies, and multinational corporations. Students benefit from a diverse faculty composed of renowned economists and researchers, as well as from a unique mobility scheme that involves studying across multiple European universities and undertaking internships or research projects in various international contexts. The programme aims to cultivate future leaders capable of designing and implementing effective economic policies that promote sustainable development, economic stability, and social cohesion in a globalising world. Graduates of this interdisciplinary programme will possess the skills necessary to analyze the complex interplay of economic, social, and political factors influencing European integration and globalisation processes, making them highly competitive in the international job market.

The programme offers a scientifically well-founded training in the field of economics of globalisation, international trade and European economic integration. It provides a profound insight into the current scientific knowledge in this field and is supported by scientific research at the partner universities, both at these universities individually and in a network context.
The programme consists of 60 ECTS credits. The taught part of the programme amounts to 45 credits and the dissertation has a weight of 15 credits. One credit is roughly equivalent to 25 working hours (lectures, assignments and study time).
The study programme is full-time and runs over one year. The language of instruction is English. The teaching staff consists of professors from the partner universities.
The taught programme leads to an in-depth understanding of the following core subjects: Advanced Microeconomics, Advanced Macroeconomics, Open Economy Macroeconomics and International Finance, Economics of Globalisation, Economics of European Integration, and International Trade: Theory and Policy. As a master’s degree in economics should also include a strong quantitative component, Applied Econometrics is taught as an additional core discipline.
Two types of optional courses are offered: advanced subjects and skills. The first category includes courses such as Special Topics in Applied Econometrics, Special Topics in International Finance, Special Topics in International Trade, and Economics of Regulation. In the second category there are courses on Mathematics for Economists and Academic Writing, as well as language courses (e.g. Chinese during the term in which students attend courses in Xiamen University).
Students start working on their dissertation during the first term, and can submit either in May (for graduation in July) or in September(for graduation in October). Professors from all partner universities act as supervisors and evaluators of the dissertations.

Requirements

• Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Social Sciences (Economics, Political Science, Sociology, International Relations, or related disciplines), with good study results. Applicants with a Bachelor's degree of four years of study can be admitted, provided they have attended additional courses/trainings and/or hold relevant professional experience. Applicants with only a Bachelor’s degree of three years of study will not be admitted to the Master programmes.
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): minimum score of 550 for the paper-based test or 79 for the Internet-based test. Information about this test is available at the TOEFL-website. IOB does not accept the TOEFL ITP.
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): minimum score of 6.5 and a minimum score of 6.0 on each component. Information about this test is available at the IELTS-website.
• A copy of your valid passport or identity card/a curriculum vitae
• A motivation letter
• A legalised copy of your degree certificate (please read more information on legalisation)
• Applicants that are enrolled in the final year should submit an original and signed letter from their college or university confirming that they are expected to finalise the program at the end of the current academic year
• A copy of your academic transcripts, provided with a stamp of the university

The financing of the Economics of Globalisation and European Integration (Erasmus Mundus) master's program at the University of Antwerp is primarily supported through the Erasmus Mundus funding scheme, which aims to promote higher education cooperation between Europe and other parts of the world. Students accepted into the program are often eligible for Erasmus Mundus scholarships that cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic excellence and motivation. In addition to Erasmus Mundus grants, students may also have access to university-specific scholarships or financial aid programs offered by the University of Antwerp to international students. Some students may choose to finance their studies through personal savings, family support, or student loans, although specific institutional loan programs are not mentioned as part of the official program funding sources. The university encourages prospective students to explore external scholarship opportunities, including national grants from their home countries, the European Union's funding mechanisms, and private foundations committed to supporting international education. The cost of living in Antwerp, Belgium, should also be considered when planning finances, as students will need to budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and study materials. The program coordinators often recommend early financial planning to ensure students can afford their stay and studies without undue hardship. Additionally, some students may seek part-time employment arrangements permitted under visa regulations in Belgium, although this is subject to specific legal requirements and should be carefully planned. Overall, the financing of the program relies heavily on Erasmus Mundus scholarships, supplemented by personal resources and external funding sources, enabling talented students from diverse backgrounds to participate in this advanced international program without financial barriers.

The Economics of Globalisation and European Integration (Erasmus Mundus) is a highly interdisciplinary master's program offered in collaboration between the University of Antwerp and several prestigious European universities. This program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the economic aspects of globalisation and the process of European integration, equipping them with the analytical skills necessary to understand complex economic phenomena in a global context. The curriculum covers a variety of subjects, including trade theory, economic policy, institutional analysis, and regional integration. It emphasizes quantitative methods, economic modelling, and policy evaluation to prepare students for careers in academia, international organizations, and policy-making bodies.

The program is delivered through a combined structure of coursework, research projects, and internships, often spanning multiple European countries. Students have the opportunity to study at different partner universities, thereby gaining diverse perspectives and a broad network of academic and professional contacts. The program's international character is also reflected in its diverse student body, which includes candidates from all over the world. Graduates of this Erasmus Mundus master's program are well-positioned to pursue PhDs or enter employment in international economic consultancy, governmental agencies, or European institutions.

The program typically lasts two years, involving intensive coursework in economic theory, regional policies, and global economic trends, complemented by seminars and workshops led by leading scholars and practitioners. The European focus ensures that students develop a nuanced understanding of European integration processes, EU policymaking, and regional development strategies. Language proficiency in English is essential, as the program's instruction language is English, and students are often encouraged to learn additional European languages during their studies.

Scholarships are available for qualified students, which can cover tuition fees, travel costs, and accommodation, making it accessible to a diverse cohort. Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree in economics, finance, or a related discipline, along with proof of English proficiency. The university provides comprehensive support services for international students, including orientation programs, language courses, and career counseling. Overall, the Economics of Globalisation and European Integration (Erasmus Mundus) is designed to develop future leaders and experts in European economic integration and globalisation, offering a rigorous academic experience combined with practical exposure to Europe’s economic environment.