MESPOM prepares students for identifying and implementing solutions to complex environmental sustainability challenges, especially in an international context. It offers a comprehensive inter- and multi-disciplinary curriculum in environmental studies that challenges students` ability to integrate theory and practice for systematic analysis, holistic understanding, and management of diverse environmental issues in various social contexts.
In addition to their academic work, students develop research, communication and other professional skills, learn to orient themselves in European and worldwide networks of environmental institutions and elaborate relevant career objectives and strategies.
MESPOM invites applications from all countries. Successful candidates must have a good first degree in a subject related to environmental sciences, policy and management such as biology, geography, other earth sciences, civil engineering, urban or landscape planning, resource economics or specialised disciplines (environmental engineering, environmental management, environmental economics, environmental policy). Candidates with other first degrees are also considered if they show commitment to environmental careers, usually through work experience. Admission is based on the academic and intellectual excellence of applicants as well as their motivation and prior experience. All candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English. In order to create a multicultural learning environment, the Consortium strives to achieve a balance between various geographic and disciplinary backgrounds of MESPOM students.
Admission to MESPOM is highly competitive. In 2005, more than 300, in 2006 - more than 400 and in 2007 - more than 500 qualified candidates from 72 countries competed for existing places. A successful applicant has typically graduated with excellent grades from a good university and/or has successful professional environmental career. She or he understands global environmental challenges and has a clear commitment to contribute to their resolution. See the Students page for profiles of selected current and former students.
All MESPOM applications should be made to Central European University in accordance with CEU Admission Requirements and with respect to the MESPOM specific eligibility requirements and application procedure.
Application deadlines for the 2009-2011 study period are January 2, 2009 for the applicants seeking Erasmus Mundus scholarships or other financial assistance from the MESPOM Consortium, and February 13, 2009 for the applicants asking for MESPOM tution waivers and for applicants from the EU. The deadline for MESPOM scholars is January 15, 2009.
The admission process will include check of eligibility requirements and selection by the MESPOM Academic Board.
The Academic Board will also make recommendations for Erasmus Mundus scholarships (subsequently to be endorsed by the European Commission) and allocate MESPOM tuition waivers to the best applicants. CEU will make a separate decision on awarding CEU fellowships to eligible candidates.