The CDE Erasmus Mundus program, formally known as the Copernicus Master in Digital Earth, is a prestigious two-year, full-time Erasmus+ Joint Master Degree (EMJM) co-funded by the European Union. Designed to address the growing demand for expertise in geospatial technologies, this interdisciplinary MSc equips students with advanced knowledge in Earth observation, geoinformatics, and digital earth applications. The program aims to prepare future professionals capable of analyzing, interpreting, and leveraging geospatial data to solve complex environmental and societal challenges.
In the first academic year, students are based at the Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg in Austria, where they complete a foundational curriculum covering core topics in geoinformatics and spatial data science. In the second year, students select a specialization track hosted by one of the program’s partner universities in France or the Czech Republic. Throughout the program, students engage in research mobility, industry internships, and intensive modules designed to integrate academic learning with practical experience in the rapidly evolving digital earth domain.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-10-2023
- End date 30-11-2029
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The CDE Erasmus Mundus program offers students the opportunity to study at three leading European universities, focusing on Earth observation, geospatial data science
| Paris‑Lodron University Salzburg |
| Université Bretagne Sud |
| Palacký University Olomouc |
| Austria |
| France |
| Czechia |
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 CDE Erasmus Mundus Program
This CDE Erasmus Mundus EMJM master seamlessly blends academic rigor with real-world skills. From satellite imagery analysis to interactive mapping and AI‑driven geospatial systems, it’s designed to define tomorrow’s leaders in the Copernicus and Digital Earth spheres
Key features of the CDE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Double degree MSc in English
- Two specialization tracks: GeoData Science or Geovisualization & Geocommunication
- Research mobility and internship placements in Europe’s leading EO/Geo institutions
- Accredited under QA standards until at least 2028
- Comprehensive blend: theory, modeling, analytics, visualization, spatial infrastructure
Mobility tracks of the CDE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Year 1: Salzburg (Austria) – core curriculum in Earth Observation & Geoinformatics.
- Year 2: Choose specialization:
- Université Bretagne Sud (France) – GeoData Science (e.g., remote sensing, machine learning)
- Palacký University Olomouc (Czech Republic) – Geovisualization & Geocommunication (e.g. cartography, web visualization)
Short internships and exchanges are sprinkled in for hands‑on industry immersion.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s (or equivalent) in relevant fields (e.g., geoinformatics, geography, computer science) from recognized institutions
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Motivation letter, CV, academic transcripts, references
- Selection is competitive and merit‑based
How to apply for CDE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Monitor the Erasmus+ EMJM call on master-cde.eu.
- Collect transcripts, English tests, motivation letter, CV, and references.
- Apply online before the deadlines (usually biannual calls).
- Selection by academic committee with offers made accordingly
Tips to win the CDE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Highlight your academic excellence and hands‑on geospatial projects
- Showcase passion for Copernicus, EO & geoinformatics
- Demonstrate intercultural adaptability and clear career goals
- Tailor your motivation letter to each specialization track
- Secure strong, specific academic or industry references
Application Timeline
- Opens: October
- Deadline: January
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the CDE Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1 & 2 (Salzburg): Core modules in EO, GIS, spatial analytics, data infrastructures
- Semester 3 & 4 (Specialization): Tailored courses in GeoData Science or GeoVisualization plus thesis
- Thesis: Joint Master’s Thesis with research and internship components
Coordinator Contact
- Email: msc‑cde@plus.ac.at
Alumni Feedback
CDE allows me to explore geospatial technologies and various techniques such as GIS, remote sensing, and software development for geospatial applications that can be integrated within my hackathon projects. Furthermore, the Geovisualisation track improves my capacity to produce visually appealing and impactful projects.
~Anonymous
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the CDE Erasmus Mundus Program stand out?
It’s a co‑funded, double‑degree MSc merging Earth Observation and Geoinformatics with specialist tracks and real‑world internships.
Is the CDE Erasmus Mundus Program fully in English?
Completely—both core and specialization courses are delivered in English.
Does the CDE Erasmus Mundus Program include internship opportunities?
Absolutely—internships are compulsory and integral to the degree.
Do alumni of the CDE Erasmus Mundus Program find jobs easily?
Yes—graduates are equipped with in‑demand skills and industry readiness through real‑world placements.
