GAMIFIED REALITY APPLICATIONS FOR REAL-WORLD CHALLENGES AND EXPERIENCES (GRACE)

OVERVIEW

The GRACE Master’s Programme equips you with the expertise to design and implement cutting-edge solutions using Extended Reality (XR) and gamification. This unique program integrates creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship to prepare you for high-demand careers in industries like healthcare, education, and industrial training.

The GRACE curriculum spans four semesters, each providing practical and theoretical knowledge to address real-world challenges. With GRACE’s Integrated Mobility Concept, you will study in three European countries, gaining a global perspective and leveraging the unique strengths of each partner university.

1st Semester (St. Pölten UAS, Austria)
Foundation in XR, gamification, and user-centred design principles.

2nd Semester (Saxion UAS, The Netherlands)
Development of innovative, low-fidelity prototypes through hands-on collaboration with industry partners.

3rd Semester (Vidzeme UAS, Latvia)
Advanced implementation of high-fidelity XR prototypes and preparation for market applications.

4th Semester:

Completion of the Path to Reality module, focusing on professional growth and creating a market-ready product.

Throughout the program, you’ll engage with mentors, industry partners, and fellow students, gaining practical experience and a robust network.

More information: [email protected]

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FAST FACTS

Language: English
Duration: 2 years- 4 semesters, full-time
Degree title: Master of Science (Joint/Multiple MSc Degree)

Tution per semester: EUR 363.36 (for students from third countries: EUR 1,500) plus student union fee

Study Places & Start of Course: 25 places/year, winter semester 2026/27

Find out more here

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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Proof of English proficiency (see minimum requirements)
Transcript of records (for non-EU students with apostille/diplomatic authentication if applicable)
Final diploma (for non-EU students with apostille/diplomatic authentication if applicable)
Portfolio (recommended if your degree is not in game/XR development; showcase your relevant skills. Submission will be considered for ranking if the number of qualified applicants exceeds the number of available study places.)
Personal video introduction (short video introducing yourself and your motivation. Submission will be considered for ranking if the number of qualified applicants exceeds the number of available study places.)
1 or 2 letters of recommendation (one academic, one professional. Submission will be considered for ranking if the number of qualified applicants exceeds the number of available study places.)

HOW TO APPLY?

Applications are open until 1 February 2026. Visit our Admissions Page for detailed information about the application process, eligibility requirements, and important deadlines.

Apply through ViA partner St.Polten UAS: https://bewerbung.fhstp.ac.at/addons/aufnahme/cis/index.php/Registration

APPLY HERE

GRACE - Gamified Reality Applications for Real-world Challenges and Experiences is an innovative Joint Master Programme led by a consortium of partners belonging to the European University Alliance E3UDRES2 designed to master the art and science of Extended Reality (XR) and gamification for enhanced learning experiences.
This interdisciplinary programme focuses on developing advanced XR tools that are revolutionising professional education, training, and skill development across healthcare, education, and industrial sectors.

Semester Breakdown*

The integrated mobility path linking three European countries promises a magnificent lifetime experience and a unique opportunity to build an extensive professional network to start a career.

Within GRACE’s integrated mobility concept, you will complete the

* Semesters 2 & 3 or 3 & 4 are likely eligible for financial support through the Erasmus+ Student Exchange grant.

Focused on the fundamentals of XR and gamification, you will begin with a basic bootcamp and move on to concept development and preliminary design work, setting the stage for your GRACE journey.

Download GRACE Curriculum (PDF) - HERE

With its self-referential pedagogical approach, GRACE enhances learning through interactive elements, fostering creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem- solving skills.

GRACE is more than just a degree - it is an opportunity to be part of an international and interdisciplinary collaboration, to engage with diverse teams, and to adapt to a variety of cultural contexts. Our strong industry connections offer a practical learning journey that goes beyond the classroom.

Joint Master of Science:
Awarded by 3 public universities in Austria, the Netherlands, and Latvia.
Affordable & supported:
Low fees, Erasmus+ support up to €10,000
Recognised & accredited:
Accredited under the European Approach for Quality Assurance of Joint Programmes
Housing arranged:
At every study location.
Mentorship & network:
Work with 25+ industry mentors, or bring your own
Career-ready skills:
Gain practical experience through real-world XR projects and industry collaborations.
Study at Award-Winning Universities:
GRACE is delivered by partners recognised for student satisfaction and research excellence.
Build the bridge between education and industry:
Real-world challenges – 25+ industry partners as mentors – high entrepreneurial impact
Experience gamification as a didactical principle
Key application fields:

Health – Education - Industry

Recent advancements in technologies like Extended Reality (XR) are profoundly shaping our learning processes and skill acquisition. XR applications, whether in simulated or real environments for training, therapy, education, or entertainment, have seen a significant surge.

Key focus areas include: