An Erasmus Mundus
Joint Master’s Programme
Janus: A Master in security
and defence
JANUS (Joint Master in Applied Security and Defense – Networks for Unified Strategies) is an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programme of excellence in security and defence, coordinated by Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3 and delivered by a consortium of five universities in France, Lebanon, Romania, Spain and the United Kingdom.
Shaping Global Leaders in Security and Defence
Funded by the European Commission under the Erasmus+ programme, JANUS offers a demanding, fully international curriculum that combines academic rigour, high‑level expertise and strong professional exposure in the field of security and defence.
A Unique and Innovative Master’s Program
JANUS is a two‑year joint Master’s degree that provides a dual specialisation in security and defence, enabling students to understand and analyse strategic disruptions in a globalised and contested world. Over four semesters, students study in at least three different countries within the consortium, acquire a deep knowledge of European and international security and defense issues, and develop the skills required to work in complex, high‑stakes environments.
Key features
1.
A joint programme with five universities
Students follow a truly international pathway across five renowned universities, benefiting from complementary academic traditions, teaching methods and areas of expertise. This multi‑campus design offers multiple perspectives on security and defence and strengthens intercultural, linguistic and professional skills.
2.
An Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM)
As an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master, JANUS meets the highest European standards in terms of academic quality, joint governance, mobility and student support. The programme offers competitive Erasmus Mundus scholarships for the best candidates, alongside places for self‑funded students, and leads to a jointly awarded degree recognised across partner countries.
3.
A diverse curriculum and expert teaching
The curriculum combines law, political science, international relations and strategic studies, with courses on European security, defence policies, intelligence, crisis management and related fields. Teaching is provided by an international faculty and a pool of associated partners and practitioners, ensuring a programme that is both research‑informed and closely connected to professional needs in the security and defence sector.
4.
Advanced skills for global careers
Throughout the two‑year programme, students develop high‑level analytical skills, project management abilities and a solid understanding of complex security environments. They also acquire valuable soft skills—critical thinking, leadership, teamwork and multilingual communication—that are essential for careers in ministries, international organisations, think tanks, security agencies and the private sector.
Your Path to Excellence Begins Here:
Explore the Unparalleled Opportunities of Our Master’s Programme.
Discover a programme that not only educates but transforms, shaping leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of security and defence on a global scale.
Join us on this exceptional academic journey where innovation meets excellence.
Apply before 6th March 2026 11:59 PM
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Why Choose Janus?
The Erasmus Mundus JANUS Master is a selective, globally oriented programme that combines a solid academic foundation with strong professional links in both security and defence. It develops advanced analytical skills, a deep understanding of European and international security and defence issues, and key competences for working in demanding public, private and international contexts. Graduates benefit from a wide professional network built through mobility across several countries, guest lectures, conferences, potential internships and sustained interaction with associated partners from the security and defence ecosystem.
Our programme highlights
Global
Recognition
JANUS is part of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) framework, a prestigious European label associated with academic excellence, international mobility and high employability.
Unique
Curriculum
The programme covers a broad range of security and defence topics, from conceptual and legal foundations to operational and strategic issues, and may include research work, field activities and professional immersion.
Competitive
Edge
By graduating from a leading international consortium with a strong focus on security and defence, students gain a clear advantage in the job market for positions in ministries, international organisations, think tanks, security agencies and the private sector
Strong partnerships
The consortium works closely with associated partners (institutions, agencies, firms and think tanks), offering students opportunities for networking, professional encounters and exposure to real‑world security challenges.
Application Process:
Embark on a Journey to Become a Global Security Leader
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying:
1
Explore the programme
Erasmus Mundus Janus Master is a two-year programme that prepares students for careers in the field of security. It offers a strong foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of security, and has a strong network of industry partners.
2
Prepare application materials
3
Submit Your Application
4
Application Review
5
Admission Decision
4
Application Review
5
Admission Decision
6
Join the
Programme
Consortium members:
Join forces with renowned Institutions
Programme coordinator, bringing strong expertise in geopolitics, international relations and strategic studies, and providing the entry point of the master in Western Europe.
A key academic institution in the Middle East, offering an essential regional perspective on security issues at the crossroads of Europe and its southern and eastern neighbourhoods.
A major Southern European university, contributing recognised expertise in law, security and European studies, and anchoring the programme in the Mediterranean context.
Representing Central and Eastern Europe, with strong competence in political science and European affairs, and a specific focus on high intensity conflict challenges on the EU’s eastern flank.
A public research university with an established reputation in law and human rights, political science and international relations, adding an Anglo‑Saxon academic perspective and experience with double degrees and joint programmes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the objectives of the programme?
The objective of the JANUS Master’s programme is to train highly skilled experts capable of understanding, analyzing, acting and operating effectively in the fields of security and defence. As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, and strategic challenges multiply and grow more complex, it is crucial for students in defence 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 radicalisation, 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 organised crime, the democratisation of advanced technologies, the technological convergence of internal and external threats, etc.).
Why choose JANUS?
The Master’s programme offers a unique approach at the heart of the internationalisation and mobility within European and global higher education, leading to:
- An international and joint approach to security and defence, 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.
What are the career prospects after JANUS?
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.
What skills will I develop in the JANUS Master?
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.
How does JANUS support students’ employability?
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.
How can companies and professionals become associated partners?
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 programme’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 defence.
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 programme, offering advice and support, participating in teaching, engaging in student selection and governance processes for the degree, organising and leading conferences, recruiting interns, providing financial support, and participating in the evaluation of the programme.
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What are the requirements to apply to the programme?
Language proficiency:
Applicants must provide language proficiency certificates obtained within the past two years.
A B2 level of proficiency in French (TEF, TCF or DELF)
A TOEFL score of 90, an IELTS score of 6.5, or Cambridge C1 (please note that a score of 100 points on the TOEFL is required for candidates who choose the United Kingdom for the third semester)
A B2 level in Spanish (if you choose the specialisation at the University of Granada for the first semester of the second year).
Academic requirements:
Applicants must demonstrate a solid academic background in the fields covered by the EMJM JANUS programme (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.
How do I apply to the Master JANUS?
Applications are submitted exclusively online via the JANUS application platform, accessible from the official JANUS website and the e-candidat system of University Jean Moulin Lyon 3. Candidates must create an account, select “M1 Relations Internationales – JANUS Joint Master”, and upload all required documents (ID/passport, diploma or enrolment certificate, transcripts, language certificates, recommendations, essay, etc.) before the deadline. As long as the application has not been formally submitted, candidates can log back in to complete or modify their file.
What is the timeline for the application process?
For the first cohort, applications open on 9 January 2026 and close on 6 March 2026. Administrative eligibility checks are carried out as files arrive, with eligibility results published around 9 March and academic evaluation of eligible applications taking place from 10 to 19 March 2026. The pre‑selection for interviews is announced on 24 March, interviews are organised between 30 March and 11 April, and the final joint selection committee meets on 14 April 2026.
What happens if I am unable to provide the required documents for my application?
It is essential to meet all the admission requirements for your application to be considered. Make sure to gather all necessary documents in advance and try to plan ahead as much as possible, rather than waiting until the application phase begins.
Do I need to provide original documents for the application?
No, it is not necessary to provide original documents, as the application process is conducted entirely online. You must submit the original documents if you are selected for the admission process.
Do I have to provide my IELTS or TOEFL certificate before the deadline to prove my English level?
If your native language is English: you are not required to submit IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge scores. Instead, you may provide a sworn statement confirming your status as a native English speaker.
For non-native English speakers: It is mandatory to take an English proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge) and submit the test scores as part of your application.
What are the requirements for the proof of residence?
The proof of residence is an official document that must include your first name, last name and address. The document should be dated within the last year prior to the application deadline for the program. If the document is in a foreign language, an official translation will be required. If the document is a bill in the name of a third party (such as a family member), a notarised letter from that third party, along with a copy of their ID, will be required.
How will I be notified of the admission decision?
All applicants are notified of the outcome by email, sent to the address provided in the online application form. Scholarship students who are admitted receive an official letter of admission, self-funded applicants receive a selection letter with instructions for paying fees, and applicants on the waiting list or who have been rejected receive a standardised notification email.
What is the waiting list?
Due to the limited number of places in the programme, the selection committee chooses the most suitable applicants from the applications received. Eligible candidates who are not selected will be placed on a waiting list and contacted if any places become available, particularly in the event of a withdrawal by an accepted applicant.
I am unable to accept my place this year. Can the offer be deferred?
Unfortunately, deferring your acceptance to the next academic year is not possible due to European Commission policies. If you are unable to accept your place this year, you will need to reapply the following year. However, if you have previously been accepted to the programme, you can mention this in your new application.
I was not accepted. Can I reapply next year?
If your application was not successful, it may be due to factors such as how well your profile matches the programme’s requirements, your experience, or the competition from other applicants. We encourage you to reapply in the future.
Why was my application rejected?
There are several reasons why an application might not be successful, such as how closely your qualifications align with the programme’s expectations, the level of experience required or the high competition among applicants. We encourage you to try again next year, as your profile may be a better fit at that time.
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Do I need to submit a separate application to be considered for scholarships?
No, the scholarship application process is part of the same application procedure. Thus, each application submitted will be reviewed to determine eligibility for a scholarship award.
Does the EMJM scholarship cover all expenses?
The Erasmus Mundus scholarship can cover all costs associated with your education, including tuition fees and living expenses for the two years of the Master’s programme.
Which bank account is used to receive the European scholarship?
The student must open a euro-denominated bank account in order to receive the scholarship.
I want to enroll but I don’t have the financial terms. What are my options?
By applying to the JANUS master’s programme, you are also applying for the Erasmus Mundus scholarship. You will receive the selection results for both the programme and the scholarship. If you are admitted but do not receive a scholarship, you can apply for an Erasmus Master Loan under specific conditions.