Erasmus Mundus Scholar, Mohammad Usman Imtiaz from Pakistan, Pursues the Joint Master’s in Public Health in Disasters Across Spain, Sweden, and Cyprus

My name is Mohammad Usman Imtiaz, and I am from Pakistan. I am currently pursuing the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree in Public Health in Disasters (EMJM PHID) for the cohort 2025-2027, which is a mobility master’s program taught across first semester in Universidad de Oviedo, Spain, the second semester in Karolinska Institute Sweden and third semester in Nicosia Medical School, Cyprus, with 4th semester as of my choice. My background is in Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D), and throughout my academic and professional journey, I have combined my interests in clinical pharmacy, research, and disaster response. This program allows me to bring all of those passions together in a truly international setting.

Educational Background

Before joining Erasmus Mundus, I completed my Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) at the University of Health Sciences (Lahore Pharmacy College), Lahore, Pakistan. My studies covered pharmacology, clinical pharmacy, toxicology, and pharmaceutical technology etc. Alongside academics, I gained experience in Patient Counselling, community pharmacy, clinical training, disaster volunteering, and public health research projects. These experiences prepared me to thrive in a multicultural, multidisciplinary environment, as they taught me the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and evidence-based approaches to healthcare. During my Pharm D, I was also working as Team Lead – Patient Support Coordinator in the Patient Services Department in one of the American-based companies.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Institution?

I began preparing early by researching the program structure, partner universities, and the skillsets it emphasizes. I tailored my motivation letter to highlight both my academic research and my fieldwork in volunteering and disaster response across Pakistan. I also reached out to Erasmus alumni for guidance, refined my CV, and aligned my personal experiences with the program’s focus area, as for Erasmus: Relevancy is the Key

 How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Erasmus Mundus and Other Scholarships?

I had applied to multiple opportunities, almost 20+, but was rejected in all, except:

• University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB, USA) – MS leading to PhD.
• Palermo University, Italy – MSc Neuroscience.
• Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Program in Public Health in Disaster ( EMJM PHID).

While these were great opportunities, I chose Erasmus Mundus because of its global exposure, multidisciplinary curriculum, and the chance to study across three European countries with a focus on public health and disaster response. Erasmus stood out for its competitiveness and prestige—I knew it would connect me to a strong international network and prepare me for leadership in global health.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

Yes. I was accepted for:

• University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB, USA) – MS leading to PhD (with departmental funding opportunities).
• University of Palermo, Italy – MSc Neuroscience (tuition waiver + partial support).

Despite these offers, I ultimately chose Erasmus Mundus because of its comprehensive coverage, full funding, and unique multi-country exposure.

Could You Briefly Discuss the Erasmus Mundus Program You Pursued and the Specific Field of Study It Focused On?

I am enrolled in the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree in Public Health in Disasters (EMJM PHID). The program focuses on epidemiology, health systems resilience, disaster management, humanitarian aid, and global health policy. What excites me most is its combination of theoretical training and practical exposure through field visits, simulations, and collaborations with institutions like the Universidad de Oviedo, Karolinska Institutet, and the University of Nicosia.

How Did the Cost of Living Vary Across the Countries You Studied In? Which Country Was the Most Affordable or Expensive, and How Did You Manage Financially?

Since I am just in my first month, my initial experience is in Spain, which is moderately affordable compared to other European countries. I have heard from peers and seniors that Sweden tends to be more expensive, while Cyprus is comparatively affordable. The Erasmus stipend helps a lot, and with good budgeting, it is manageable across all three countries.

Did You Face Any Language Barriers, and if So, How Did You Overcome Them? Did the Language of Instruction Change from One Country to Another?

The language of instruction is English, which makes it easier for international students. While in Spain, day-to-day life sometimes requires Spanish, and I am gradually learning basic phrases to adapt better. I see language learning not as a barrier but as a way to immerse myself more fully in each culture.

Would You Recommend the Erasmus Mundus Program to Others? What Advice Would You Give to Someone Considering This Scholarship?

Absolutely! Erasmus Mundus is not just a degree—it is a life-changing experience. My advice:

• Start preparing early, especially with your motivation letter and CV.
• Highlight both your academic achievements and real-world impact in your application.
• Don’t hesitate to reach out to alumni—they provide invaluable guidance, but always be professional.
• Most importantly, apply with a clear purpose—know exactly why this program fits into your long-term goals.
• NOTE: RELEVANCY IS THE KEY

Looking Back, Would You Have Done Anything Differently During Your Time in the Program?

Since I am still in my first month, I would say the only thing I might have done differently is prepare more intensively with language basics before arriving. This would have made settling in smoother. But otherwise, every step of the journey—from applying to finally joining—has been worthwhile, and I am grateful for the opportunities that led me here.