Why choose the JANUS Master's?

1. A unique and interdisciplinary programme

The JANUS Master's programme offers you a comprehensive understanding of contemporary security and defence issues, combining:
 

• Law, political science and international relations
•  Four key geopolitical areas:
  - Transatlantic issues and the EU-UK partnership.
  - Euro-Russian relations and stability in Eastern Europe.
  - The Euro-African partnership and challenges in the Mediterranean.
  - Stability in the Middle East and regional dynamics.

2. Exceptional international mobility

As part of the JANUS programme, you will study at at least three internationally renowned universities:

1st year:

•   1st semester at: Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University (France): Fundamentals of European security and defence.
•   2nd semester at: Saint Joseph University of Beirut (Lebanon): Strategic issues in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean.
A minimum two-month internship at the end of the second semester or a research dissertation

2nd year:

• 3rd semester choice between:
  - University of Granada (Spain): Security in the Western Mediterranean and Euro-African partnership.
  - Or University of Bucharest (Romania): Central Europe, the Black Sea and Euro-Russian relations.
  - Or University of Essex (United Kingdom): Transatlantic issues, cybersecurity and EU-UK partnership.
   
• 4th semester: internship or research dissertation

This mobility will enable you to acquire a multicultural and multilingual perspective, which is essential for a career in the security and defence sectors.

3. A choice of specialisations to match your ambitions

During the second year, you can specialise in one of the following three areas:

• Cybersecurity: Protection of critical systems, digital sovereignty and cyberspace regulation.
• Criminology: Organised crime, Terrorism, transnational crime and international judicial cooperation.
• High intensity warfare: Military doctrines, modern conflicts and European defence policies.
 

4. Practical professional training

The JANUS Master's programme focuses on active and professional teaching methods:

• Operational conferences: Discussions with international experts (6 per semester, including 2 organised by students).
•  Visits to strategic sites: Interpol, NATO, Frontex, military bases, cybersecurity centres, etc.
•  Internship or research dissertation: In an institution (EU, NATO, NGO) or a company, with personalised support.

These experiences will enable you to build a solid professional network and effectively prepare for your future career.
 

5. Varied and promising career opportunities

JANUS Master's graduates may enter sectors in high demand, such as:

•    Cybersecurity and data protection.
•    Economic intelligence and strategic analysis.
•    Risk management and infrastructure security.
•    European and international institutions (EU, NATO, UN).
•    Ministries, armed forces and large companies in the security sector.

6. How to apply?

Applications must be submitted online via the e-candidat platform. Visit our website to find all the essential information and documents required to apply: https://master-janus-security-defense.eu/how-to-apply-janus/  


► Admission requirements:

• Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and have completed at least three years of higher education (equivalent to at least 180 ECTS for European graduates) in one of the following disciplines: law, political science, international relations, economics, history, security/defence or a related field.
• Demonstrate a minimum B2 level in French (TEF, TCF or DELF) and English (TOEFL 90 or IELTS 6.5, Cambridge CAE). Please note that a TOEFL score of 100 points is required for applicants who choose the UK for the 3rd semester.
• For students who plan to specialize at the University of Granada in the third semester, a B2 level Spanish language certificate is also required.
•  Submit a strong academic record, a cover letter, two letters of recommendation and an essay based on three questions, two in English and one in French.

 

► Timeline:

•    Applications open: 9 January 2026.
•    Applications close: 6 March 2026 (11.59 p.m. Paris Time CET)
•    Selection results: from 20th April 2026
•    Start of academic year: September 2026.
 

► Erasmus Mundus scholarships:

The JANUS programme is eligible for Erasmus Mundus scholarships. Visit the dedicated page for more information; click here. 
 
If you have any questions, please contact us at: janus@univ-lyon3.fr