Contemporary Challenges in the World of Work
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
| 2027-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Introduction to the WOCC Programme
The Contemporary Challenges in the World of Work (WOCC) international joint Master's programme is an innovative two-year joint Master's degree designed to respond to the dynamics and complexity of global labour markets. Delivered in English, Spanish, and French, it is supported by a consortium bringing together several universities from around the world.
Programme Overview
The WOCC programme aims to equip its future students with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively address the complex challenges related to employment policies, decent work, and sustainability. It promotes the principles of dignity at work, such as equal access to employment and social protection, and responds to the European Union's strategic priorities for strengthening social security and inclusion.
Programme Structure
The programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic and professional practice through internships and structured support. It offers 70 scholarships of excellence for 120 students who may choose from three specialisations:
- Labour, Health and Environment
- Global Value Chains and Labour Relations
- Labour Regulations and Sustainable Organisation Management
Teaching Team and Programme Delivery
The programme is designed and led by a multicultural and multidisciplinary teaching team of 73 people. The course will be delivered in English, Spanish, and French, making it a multilingual programme of excellence that aligns with European social policies and the recommendations of international organisations, notably the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
Programme Objectives
The WOCC programme aims to cultivate a new generation of professionals skilled in navigating the complexities of the labour market and addressing its challenges in an increasingly interconnected and dynamic world. By combining a solid theoretical foundation with the practical skills necessary for effective action, the programme will empower its graduates to make meaningful contributions to the future of labour.
Key Dates
The following are key dates for the programme:
- 8 January 2026: Online applications open
- 22 March 2026: Application deadline
- 30 March - 4 April 2026: Admission interviews
- April 2026: Publication of results
- September 2026: Start of class
Programme Details
The WOCC Master's is a two-year joint Master's degree that is scheduled to launch at the start of the academic year in September 2026. It is supported by a consortium of universities including the University of Lille (France), Laval University (Canada), ULB (Belgium), the University of Buenos Aires (Argentina), the Complutense University of Madrid (Spain), and Sapienza University of Rome (Italy).
