The NORISK Erasmus Mundus Programme in Risk Assessment and Management of Civil Infrastructures is a specialised one-year international master’s degree delivered under the Erasmus+ Joint Master Degrees framework. It equips students with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for analysing, managing and mitigating risks in civil and critical infrastructure systems from transport and energy networks to water, health and security infrastructures. The curriculum emphasises multidisciplinary approaches that integrate reliability, resilience, sustainability and digitalisation in the context of infrastructure risk management, preparing graduates for careers in engineering, consulting, research and public policy.
Launched as a response to the growing global demand for infrastructure risk specialists, the programme is offered by a consortium of respected European higher education institutions, where students undertake coursework and research through integrated mobility across partner universities. This international exposure not only enhances academic depth but also fosters cross-cultural competencies vital for future professionals in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Key Details of the NORISK Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Masters in Risk Assessment and Management of Civil Infrastructures |
| Duration | 1 academic year (60 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 coursework + Year 1 dissertation at partner institutions |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Risk assessment, reliability analysis, monitoring, digitalisation, intervention techniques |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
| Start Date | 01 November 2023 |
| End Date | 31 December 2029 |
| Action Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Degree |
Universities and Countries Involved in NORISK Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| University of Minho | Portugal |
| La Rochelle Université | France |
| Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya | Spain |
| Università di Padova | Italy |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 – Semester 1 | Two consortium universities (according to assigned mobility track) | Five sequential course units (NR1–NR5) covering risk assessment, reliability, monitoring, digitalisation and intervention + one project-based learning unit (NR6) – 30 ECTS |
| Year 1 – Semester 2 | Any consortium or associated partner institution | Master’s dissertation focused on risk assessment and management of civil infrastructures – 30 ECTS |
| Mandatory Activity | Rotating consortium location | Integration Week: intensive academic and professional event including seminars, site visits and networking |
| Optional Activity | Rotating consortium location or virtual | NORISK Workshop: keynote lectures, dissertation presentations and career sessions |
Research and Industry Links
The NORISK Erasmus Mundus programme partners with a network of 135 associated institutions worldwide, including universities, industry, research centres and NGOs that contribute to lectures, joint seminars, dissertation co-supervision and internship pathways. These collaborations strengthen students’ exposure to research and real-world infrastructure risk management practices.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the NORISK Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in civil, structural, environmental or related engineering fields (minimum equivalent to 240 ECTS).
- English language proficiency (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent as per partner requirements).
- Strong academic record and motivation for risk assessment and infrastructure management.
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts (or proof of upcoming graduation).
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter.
- Recommendation letters.
- Passport identification page.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official NORISK application portal via the programme website.
- Complete personal, academic and background details.
- Upload all required PDF documents in English.
- Provide referee contact information for recommendation submissions.
- Review and submit the application before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, attend the interview stage.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline (1st Call) | January |
| Selection and Review | February–March |
| Final Results Notification | March |
| Programme Start | October |
Scholarship Benefits for NORISK Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ funding covering tuition and monthly stipend (up to €1,400 per month) and travel support.
- Coverage of tuition fees (€9,000) and participation in Integration Week.
- Consortium scholarships for additional financial support.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate motivation for advanced studies in infrastructure risk management.
- Emphasise relevant engineering coursework, projects or internships.
- Provide a strong academic CV and well-structured motivation letter.
- Secure quality recommendation letters.
- Prepare for the interview by highlighting analytical skills and multidisciplinary interests.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the NORISK Erasmus Mundus programme benefit from an international academic environment, multidisciplinary training and strong links with industry and research bodies. Alumni are well prepared for careers in engineering firms, consultancy, infrastructure agencies, research institutions and doctoral studies in risk and infrastructure management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the NORISK Erasmus Mundus Program special?
Are English proficiency scores mandatory for NORISK Erasmus Mundus?
Yes. TOEFL ≥ 72 iBT or IELTS ≥ 6.5 is required unless you qualify for an exemption per partner university rules .
Who is eligible to apply for the NORISK Erasmus Mundus program?
The NORISK Erasmus Mundus program is open to students worldwide with a bachelor’s degree (minimum 240 ECTS) in civil, structural, environmental, mechanical, or related engineering fields. A strong academic background and English proficiency are essential.
Does the NORISK Erasmus Mundus program offer full scholarships?
Yes! Selected students in the first call may receive full Erasmus+ scholarships that cover tuition fees, travel, insurance, and a monthly stipend of €1,400 for the entire program duration.
What degree will I receive after completing the NORISK Erasmus Mundus program?
Graduates receive two official Master’s degrees: one from each of the institutions where they completed coursework and thesis components.
