In an era where digital maps guide everything from humanitarian aid to climate research, the CARTO Erasmus Mundus program offers a specialized two-year Master’s in Cartography, equipping students with the skills to visualize, analyze, and manage geospatial data. This joint program is led by top European institutions and merges modern mapping technologies with sustainability principles. It’s designed for students passionate about combining data science, geography, and design to tackle global challenges.
Offered under the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master framework, the CARTO Erasmus Mundus program is globally recognized and attracts students from across the world. The program not only focuses on cartographic theory and GIS tools but also emphasizes real-world application, mobility, and intercultural exchange. From working with advanced 3D mapping software to contributing to open-source cartographic platforms, students graduate with a robust academic foundation and practical experience in shaping a sustainable future through maps.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-01-2022
- End date 31-12-2027
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The CARTO Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in cartography, delivered by leading European universities with a strong focus on sustainable mapmaking
| Technische Universität München (TUM) |
| Technische Universität Dresden (TUD) |
| Technische Universität Wien (TU Wien) |
| University of Twente (ITC) |
| Germany |
| Austria |
| Netherlands |
This cross-border collaboration allows students to gain an international perspective while studying and researching in the heart of Europe’s academic and industrial hubs.
Description of the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program
The CARTO Erasmus Mundus program blends theoretical knowledge with applied mapping techniques, giving students access to cutting-edge GIS tools, remote sensing, geovisualization, and spatial data analysis. With a curriculum shaped by top European universities, students experience different academic cultures, tools, and challenges as they progress across countries.
Key Features of the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program
- Joint degree awarded by multiple prestigious universities
- Three-semester mobility across Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands
- Interdisciplinary curriculum combining GIS, data visualization, and computer science
- Access to advanced mapping technologies and industry-standard software
- Opportunities for internships, research, and industry collaboration
- Master thesis in 4th semester supervised across partner institutions
Mobility Tracks of the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1: TU Munich, Germany
- Semester 2: TU Wien, Austria
- Semester 3: TU Dresden, Germany
- Semester 4 (Thesis): Supervised by any partner university (includes optional mobility to University of Twente)
Admission Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Cartography, Geography, Geoinformatics, or related fields
- English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 90+ or equivalent)
- Strong academic background and motivation for cartography
- Letters of recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae and Motivation Letter
- Optional: Portfolio of work or relevant experience in GIS/cartography
How to Apply for CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program
- Visit the official website: cartographymaster.eu
- Create an account on the application portal
- Fill out the online application form
- Upload required documents (degree certificate, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, references, English test score)
- Indicate if you’re applying for an Erasmus Mundus scholarship
- Submit before the annual deadline (typically January)
Tips to Win the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program
- Craft a compelling motivation letter that shows your passion for sustainable cartography
- Highlight any GIS, mapping, or software experience (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS, Python, Remote Sensing)
- Choose references who can speak to your technical and academic strengths
- Keep your documents clear, concise, and tailored to the program’s sustainability and mapping focus
- Stay updated with webinars or info sessions offered by the CARTO consortium
Application Timeline
- Opens: October
- Deadline: January
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the CARTO Erasmus Mundus Program
| Semester | University | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | TU Munich (Germany) | Basics of Cartography, Geovisualization, and Programming |
| Semester 2 | TU Wien (Austria) | Multimedia Cartography, Geo-Media, and Web Technologies |
| Semester 3 | TU Dresden (Germany) | Geodata Analysis, Thematic Cartography, Advanced Mapping |
| Semester 4 | Any Partner University | Master Thesis |
Coordinator Contact
Programme coordinator at Technische Universität München:
Juliane Cron, M.Sc.
+49-89-289-22829
info@cartographymaster.eu
Alumni Feedback
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.
