FAQ
Would you like to learn more about the Active Ageing and Age-Friendly Society master’s degree program? Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the curriculum, admission requirements, part-time study options, internships, and career opportunities. If your question isn’t listed here, our team will be happy to assist you personally.
What is the EMMA Joint Master's Degree Program?
EMMA (European Master on Active Aging and Age-Friendly Society) is an international joint master’s program offered jointly by five European universities. The program examines the societal impacts of demographic change and equips students with the skills to develop innovative concepts for healthy and active aging and an age-friendly society.
What does “Joint Master’s Program” mean?
A joint master's program is developed and administered jointly by several universities. In the EMMA program, you will collaborate with faculty and students from five European partner universities and benefit from international perspectives and a Europe-wide network.
Why does the program focus on demographic change?
The global population is aging. This presents new challenges in the areas of health, housing, mobility, the economy, politics, and social life. This degree program will equip you with the knowledge and skills to actively shape these developments and create sustainable solutions for an age-friendly society.
Who can apply for the program?
The program is designed for graduates in the fields of health sciences, social sciences, engineering, sports science, and business, as well as related disciplines. A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification is required.
What level of English do I need?
Applications are submitted online through the CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences application portal. In addition to the required documents, you must also submit a statement of purpose. The EMMA Scientific Board decides on admission based on your qualifications, English proficiency, and motivation.
What documents do I need to submit?
For your application, you will need, among other things, a resume, proof of your bachelor’s degree or your academic record to date, proof of your English proficiency (at least B2), a statement of purpose, and the documents listed on the application portal.
How is the program structured?
The master’s program lasts four semesters and comprises 120 ECTS credits. It consists of core modules, required electives, freely selectable specializations, and the master’s thesis. This allows you to tailor your program to your individual interests.
Is the program entirely online?
The program is 100% online and combines synchronous and asynchronous courses. In addition, there is a one-week intensive session held in person at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences during the third semester.
Can I complete the program while working?
Thanks to its fully digital program model, EMMA offers a high degree of flexibility in terms of time and location. Whether the program is compatible with your professional commitments depends on your individual workload and how well you manage your time.
What topics can I expect to cover in my degree program?
The program combines content from the fields of health, social, economic, and technical sciences. Among other topics, you will explore active aging, public health, the social dimensions of aging, age-appropriate technology, research, and sustainable strategies for an age-friendly society.
At which universities will I study?
EMMA is a joint initiative of CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (Austria), the University of Lisbon (Portugal), the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Greece), University College Cork (Ireland), and Karelia University of Applied Sciences (Finland).
Will I receive an international degree?
You will be enrolled in an international joint master's program offered jointly by five European universities. You can find more information about the degree during the application process or on the program's official website.
How much does it cost to attend university?
Tuition for the 2026–2027 academic year is €13,255.
Why do I have to pay to attend university?
EMMA is an international joint master's program developed and administered jointly by five European universities. Tuition fees help fund the organization and administration of the joint program, as well as international collaboration within the university network.
What career opportunities will this degree program open up for me?
This degree program prepares you for careers at the intersection of health, society, business, and technology. Potential career opportunities include research, public institutions, health organizations, businesses, politics, and international projects that address the challenges of demographic change.
Can I start a doctoral program after completing my master's degree?
Yes. Upon successful completion of the master’s program, you will meet the requirements for a doctoral program in accordance with the applicable legal provisions.
What does “active aging” mean?
Active aging describes an approach that supports people in remaining healthy, independent, and actively engaged in society as they age. This approach focuses not only on health and care, but also on issues such as social participation, education, mobility, housing, and technology.
Who is this degree program particularly suited for?
EMMA is designed for people who want to actively shape social developments and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary and international setting. The program is particularly well-suited for graduates who wish to develop solutions to the challenges of demographic change and apply their expertise in research, practice, or strategic roles.