The CARTO Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Cartography: Mapping for a Sustainable World is an international joint master’s degree designed to prepare students for global careers in cartography, geovisualisation, geospatial data analysis, and sustainable spatial communication. With a curriculum that blends rigorous scientific training, advanced spatial technologies, ethical inquiry, and design thinking, the CARTO Erasmus Mundus programme equips graduates to address complex sustainability challenges through map-based decision support and innovative geospatial solutions. The programme emphasises interdisciplinary competence, critical reflection of ethical values and geodata literacy in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Launched as an Erasmus+ Joint Master’s programme and co-funded by the European Commission, the CARTO Erasmus Mundus programme brings together four top European universities to deliver a fully integrated 120 ECTS curriculum over four semesters (two academic years). Students benefit from academic mobility across partner institutions and exposure to diverse cartographic traditions, research environments, and professional networks.
Key Details of the CARTO Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Cartography: Mapping for a Sustainable World |
| Duration | 4 semesters (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree (M.Sc.) |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Technische Universität München (TUM) and Technische Universität Wien (TUW), Year 2 at Technische Universität Dresden (TUD) and University of Twente (UT-ITC) for specialisation/ thesis |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding |
| Academic Focus | Cartography, Geovisualisation, Spatial Data Analysis, Multimedia Cartography, Sustainable Mapping |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 January 2022 |
| End Date | 31 December 2027 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in CARTO Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of European universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Technische Universität München (TUM) | Germany |
| Technische Universität Wien (TUW) | Austria |
| Technische Universität Dresden (TUD) | Germany |
| University of Twente (UT-ITC) | The Netherlands |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Germany (Technische Universität München) | Core modules: Foundations of Cartography, Geovisualisation |
| Semester 2 | Austria (Technische Universität Wien) | Multimedia Cartography, Web Mapping, Location-Based Services |
| Semester 3 | Germany (Technische Universität Dresden) | Mobile & 3D Cartography, Alpine Cartography Field School |
| Semester 4 | The Netherlands (University of Twente / Partner) | Master Thesis and optional specialised research projects |
Research and Industry Links
The CARTO Erasmus Mundus programme integrates academic learning with research and applied projects. It is supported by associated partners such as the Geospatial Information Section of the United Nations and industry collaborators like Esri, providing students with opportunities for engagement in high-impact mapping initiatives, spatial data research, and interdisciplinary collaborations across academic and professional settings.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the CARTO Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification (disciplines related to cartography, geography, geoinformatics, or related fields are typical).
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
- Strong academic background and motivation for advanced cartographic studies.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter explaining academic and professional goals.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Additional portfolio or evidence of relevant geospatial experience (if requested).
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- CV/Resume.
- Motivation letter.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Portfolio of relevant work (where applicable).
- Any programme-specific forms as prescribed in the online application portal.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official CARTO Erasmus Mundus website and access the online application portal.
- Create an applicant account and fill in personal and academic details.
- Upload all required documents in English as PDF files.
- Indicate whether you are applying for an Erasmus+ scholarship.
- Review the application carefully and submit before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for any follow-up correspondence from the programme coordinators.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | January |
| Application Deadline | May |
| Selection and Review | March – June |
| Final Results Notification | July |
| Programme Start | October |
Scholarship Benefits for CARTO Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering participation costs for eligible candidates.
- Monthly living allowance during study mobility.
- Travel support and installation allowance for non-EU residents.
- Eligibility for consortium or project-specific scholarships awarded to top applicants.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate your motivation for studying advanced cartography in a sustainability context.
- Highlight any geospatial, GIS, or mapping experience and technical skills.
- Choose referees who can speak to your academic potential and relevant competencies.
- Ensure documents are well-formatted and error-free.
- Connect motivation to real-world sustainability challenges and spatial communication goals.
Alumni Experience
I”I believe that as important as the content of the program (you can read about it in this very website) were the people who were a part of it: the amazingly supportive coordinators, quite a few inspirational lecturers, and a bunch of crazy (and very talented) fellow students, who became my great friends. After this program, you are not just an educated cartographer, but you are a part of a very welcoming community of people who love maps!”
~Agnieszka Mańk
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program about?
The CARTO Erasmus Mundus program is a two-year Master’s in Cartography designed to equip students with technical, scientific, and design knowledge for creating sustainable maps.
Can I apply for the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program without a GIS degree?
Yes, students from related fields like geography, computer science, or architecture with GIS or mapping experience are eligible to apply for the CARTO Erasmus Mundus program.
Is the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program fully funded?
Yes, Erasmus Mundus scholarships are available and cover tuition, travel, installation, and monthly living allowances for selected students.
What job opportunities are available after completing the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates work in GIS companies, government mapping agencies, international NGOs, climate research centers, or continue with PhDs in spatial sciences.
How competitive is the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program?
It is a competitive program with a limited number of scholarships awarded annually. A strong academic profile, motivation letter, and relevant experience increase your chances.
