Janus: A Master in Security
and defense

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The objective of the JANUS Master’s program is to train highly skilled experts capable of understanding, analyzing, acting and operating effectively in the fields of security and defense. As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, and strategic challenges multiply and grow more complex, it is crucial for students in defense and security to master the intricate dynamics between these two fields. This involves understanding both the distinct characteristics of each field (e.g., the resurgence of high-intensity warfare, the intensification of domestic radicalization, the reemergence of bloc politics, the evolving dynamics of war economies in Europe, etc.) and the emerging convergences (e.g., the intersection of terrorism and organized crime, the democratization of advanced technologies, the technological convergence of internal and external threats, etc.).

The Master’s program offers a unique approach at the heart of the internationalization and mobility within European and global higher education, leading to:

• An international and joint approach to security and defense, fostering strong intercultural sensitivity.
• A balance between professional training and research options, designed to meet the competencies demanded by employers.
• A cross-disciplinary set of skills that will be acquired over the course of two years, with lasting impacts throughout one’s career.

Language proficiency:

• A B2 level of proficiency in French
• A TOEFL score of 90 or an IELTS score of 6.5,
• A B2 level in Spanish

Academic requirements:

Applicants must demonstrate a solid academic background in the fields covered by the EMJM JANUS program (particularly in concepts in international relations, at the undergraduate or Bachelor level) and provide documented evidence of their academic performance. They will also need to clearly explain the alignment of their professional project, or research ambitions, with the field of strategic studies.

Yes, a limited number of Erasmus Mundus scholarships are available for the best JANUS candidates over the four intakes of the programme. These full scholarships are awarded strictly on the basis of academic excellence and overall merit, and they cannot be granted to students who have already benefited from a previous EMJM or joint doctoral scholarship funded by the European Commission.

Graduates of the JANUS Master are prepared for a wide range of careers in the fields of security and defence, at both national and international level. The programme combines academic excellence with strong professional exposure, opening access to positions in ministries, international organisations, armed forces, intelligence and security agencies, think tanks, NGOs and the private sector (risk analysis, strategic consultancy, defence industry, cybersecurity, etc.). Thanks to its international consortium and multi‑campus experience, JANUS also develops key transversal skills (multilingualism, intercultural communication, project management) that are highly valued by employers in the security and defence ecosystem.

JANUS develops advanced analytical skills in international relations, security and defence, including the ability to assess complex crises and strategic issues using interdisciplinary approaches. It also strengthens professional competences such as project management, work in multicultural teams, and interaction with institutional and operational actors, while enhancing key transversal skills like multilingual communication, critical thinking and ethical decision‑making.

Employability is at the core of the JANUS curriculum, through specialised courses, case studies and close links with professional partners in the security and defence sector. Students benefit from mandatory international mobility, potential internship opportunities, and regular interactions with practitioners (guest lectures, conferences, networking events) that help them build a clear professional project and first contacts with recruiters. The future alumni network of JANUS, spread across several countries and institutions, will also be a major asset for job searches and career development.

The consortium is eager to integrate new professionals and experts into the network of associated partners, particularly those with relevant experience in security/ defence and a complementary expertise that aligns with the program’s focus. To this end, the consortium is considering the creation of a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) specifically dedicated to the themes of security and defense.

Companies or professionals interested in joining this network may submit a letter of intent outlining their project. It is important to note that the roles of associated partners within the consortium are diverse, including: promoting the program, offering advice and support, participating in teaching, engaging in student selection and governance processes for the degree, organizing and leading conferences, recruiting interns, providing financial support, and participating in the evaluation of the program.