Master of Science in Exercise and Health for Aging and Chronic Diseases in Sustainable Societies

ongoing

This Erasmus Mundus Design Measure proposal aims to establish an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master programme to train leading professionals capable of addressing the critical societal and economic challenges associated with aging and chronic diseases. Physical activity is a fundamental health requirement for all, particularly for physically fragile populations such as the elderly or individuals with long-term pathologies or chronic illnesses. For these populations, access to appropriate exercise activities can be complex due to the need for enhanced monitoring and personalized adaptations, but also due to psychological and environmental barriers, difficulties with modern exercise equipment, lack of motivation, or misconceptions about exercise and its benefits. In the proposed master program, students will receive state-of-the-art training in exercise physiology and the design and supervision of individualized physical activity programs. Additionally, they will develop a wide range of transversal skills, including leadership and management skills, and expertise in health promotion, psychology, and behavioural attitudes toward exercise. The curriculum will also integrate training in digital information technologies, enabling students to understand and work with specialized equipment, collaborate with experts to develop or adapt exercise tools, and help hesitant patients feel comfortable using these technologies. In addition, optional courses will be proposed on topics such as urban planning and sustainable transportation, healthcare and data science, or policy and advocacy. Lastly, students will gain insight into the diversity of care systems across Europe and beyond, preparing them to contribute to the structuring of this field at both European and international levels. Graduates will be equipped to drive innovation, advocate for systemic change, and enhance care for fragile populations through interdisciplinary expertise and collaboration.