The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in Food Innovation and Product Design (FIPDes) is a prestigious international program designed to prepare the next generation of experts in food science, product design, and sustainable innovation. As global food systems face increasing pressure related to health, sustainability, and packaging waste, this interdisciplinary master’s program equips students with the skills needed to create innovative and responsible food solutions.
Delivered collaboratively by leading European universities—including AgroParisTech, Technological University Dublin, University of Naples Federico II, and Lund University—the two-year program offers a unique international study experience across multiple countries. Students gain hands-on training in food product development, packaging design, and sustainability while working with industry partners and research centers. Graduates earn multiple master’s degrees and develop the expertise needed to lead innovation in the global food industry.
Scholarship Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Erasmus Mundus FIPDes Master’s Scholarship |
| Degree Level | Master’s Degree |
| Program Name | Food Innovation & Product Design (FIPDes) |
| Host Universities | AgroParisTech (France), Technological University Dublin (Ireland), University of Naples Federico II (Italy), Lund University (Sweden) |
| Study Countries | France, Ireland, Italy, Sweden |
| Program Duration | 2 Years |
| Scholarship Coverage | Tuition fees, insurance, travel allowance, installation costs, monthly stipend |
| Eligible Nationalities | Students from all countries |
| Language Requirement | English (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent) |
| Application Deadline | submit your application between October 2026 and January 2027 |
A Truly Integrated European Education
One of the defining features of the FIPDes Master’s is its transnational mobility structure. Students study at different partner universities across Europe during the program, gaining both academic expertise and valuable cultural exposure.
This mobility model allows participants to experience diverse educational systems, research environments, and industry connections. By the end of the program, graduates are not only technically skilled but also prepared to collaborate in international teams addressing global food challenges.
Interdisciplinary Learning at Its Core
The FIPDes program goes beyond traditional food science education by combining multiple disciplines that shape modern food innovation. Students explore the full lifecycle of food products—from raw ingredients and processing to packaging, logistics, and consumer experience.
Key learning areas include:
- Food research and development (R&D) focused on new ingredients, textures, and product concepts
- Design thinking applied to food products and packaging solutions
- Sustainability and nutrition, emphasizing healthier and environmentally friendly foods
- Hands-on training in laboratories and innovation centers
This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates develop a balanced skill set that combines science, creativity, and business insight.
Specialization Tracks
During the second year of the program, students select a specialization track aligned with their interests and career goals:
- Healthy Food Design – Italy
- Food Design & Engineering – France
- Food Packaging Design & Logistics – Sweden
Each specialization builds on the strengths of the partner universities and addresses real challenges faced by the modern food industry, such as improving nutritional value, optimizing processing technologies, and creating sustainable packaging systems.
Real-World Projects and Industry Partnerships
A key strength of the FIPDes program is its strong collaboration with industry partners, research laboratories, and innovation hubs. Students work on real-world projects related to emerging food technologies, ingredient substitution, packaging innovation, and consumer-driven product design.
The program concludes with a master’s thesis, where students conduct applied research and present their findings through written reports and oral defenses. Many students complete their thesis projects in partnership with companies or research institutions, gaining valuable professional experience.
Multicultural & Collaborative Learning
The FIPDes classroom is highly international, bringing together students from many countries and academic backgrounds. The program features:
- More than 65 academic staff members
- International guest lecturers and industry experts
- Partnerships with multiple research centers and laboratories
- Approximately 40% practical and project-based learning
Group projects and collaborative activities encourage students to share perspectives, develop teamwork skills, and build global professional networks.
Prestige and Recognition
The FIPDes program is widely recognized for its academic excellence and impact on food innovation education. It has been highlighted as a success story by the European Commission, demonstrating its effectiveness in preparing graduates for global careers in food science and design.
Students who complete the program receive double or triple MSc degrees, depending on their mobility pathway, along with a joint FIPDes diploma supplement that reflects the program’s unique international structure.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the FIPDes Master’s program have strong career prospects in both industry and academia. Potential career paths include:
- Food research and development (R&D) in multinational companies
- Food packaging innovation and logistics
- Sustainable food product development
- Food technology consulting or entrepreneurship
- Academic research and doctoral studies
The combination of international experience, practical training, and industry collaboration makes graduates highly competitive in the global job market.
Scholarship Coverage
The Erasmus Mundus FIPDes scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to selected students. The funding typically includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance throughout the program
- Travel and installation costs
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Coverage of mandatory participation costs
This funding allows students to focus entirely on their studies while experiencing life and education in multiple European countries.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to apply for the FIPDes program:
Language Requirement
- English proficiency demonstrated through one of the following:
- TOEFL (minimum 575 paper-based / 90 internet-based)
- IELTS minimum score of 6.5
- Cambridge certificates (FCE B2, CAE, or CPE)
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 180 ECTS or equivalent) in:
- Food science and technology
- Biotechnology
- Process engineering
- Biochemistry
- Nutrition or related fields
Applicants should have a strong background in subjects such as chemistry, biotechnology, mathematics, statistics, and food engineering.
Eligible Countries
- Students from all countries worldwide are eligible to apply.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents during the application process:
- Completed online application form
- Passport copy
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and diploma
- Academic transcripts
- Two recommendation letters
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Proof of place of residence
All documents should be uploaded through the official application portal.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the Erasmus Mundus FIPDes Master’s scholarship:
- Prepare all required documents listed above.
- Complete the online application form through the official program portal.
- Upload all supporting documents.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- Wait for the selection results or interview invitation if shortlisted.
FAQs
1. Is the Erasmus Mundus FIPDes Master’s scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers tuition fees, insurance, travel costs, installation allowance, and a monthly living stipend for the entire duration of the program.
2. Can students from any country apply?
Yes. The program is open to students from all countries worldwide, provided they meet the academic and English language requirements.
3. What degree will students receive after completing the program?
Graduates receive double or triple MSc degrees from participating universities along with a joint FIPDes diploma supplement.
Final Thoughts
The FIPDes Master’s program represents a unique opportunity for students passionate about food science, sustainability, and product design. By combining international mobility, interdisciplinary education, and strong industry collaboration, the program prepares graduates to tackle the most pressing challenges in the global food system.
For students who want to contribute to healthier, more sustainable, and innovative food products while gaining a world-class European education, the Erasmus Mundus FIPDes Master’s Scholarship offers an exceptional pathway toward a global career in food innovation.
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