The MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Master in Sustainable Design, Construction and Management of the Built Environment is a two year, 120 ECTS joint degree program dedicated to advancing sustainable practices in the construction sector. This program is offered by three leading European institutions: the University of Porto in Portugal, Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen in Germany, and the University of Cantabria in Spain. Students follow a mobility track that includes academic semesters in each partner country, culminating in a master’s thesis supported by academic and industry supervision.
The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers sustainable design principles, building information modeling, resource conservation, construction project management, the circular economy, and integrated project delivery models. Emphasis is placed on developing both technical knowledge and cross cultural collaboration skills, preparing graduates to address complex challenges in the built environment with innovative and responsible solutions.
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 MBUILD Erasmus Mundus program is a Master’s in sustainable construction, offered by leading European universities with a focus on innovation and environmental impact.
| University of Porto |
| Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen |
| University of Cantabria |
| Portugal |
| Germany |
| Spain |
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 MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program
The MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program aims to elevate the construction sector toward sustainability. Students emerge with expertise in sustainable design, integrated project delivery, circular economy, and cultural adaptability—ready to innovate in diverse, international contexts. It’s European in execution and global in ambition
Key features of the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program
- Joint Master’s diploma awarded by all three institutions
- A 120 ECTS curriculum spanning four semesters
- Semesters in Porto, Giessen, Santander, then one for your master thesis
- Integrated project work each semester linking theory and practice
- No mandatory internship—but you’re strongly encouraged to pursue one
- Full student insurance and stipend for scholarship holders
- Tuition fees waived for Erasmus scholarship recipients, otherwise EU/non‑EU fees apply
Mobility tracks of the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1 (Portugal, FEUP/UP Porto): Sustainability strategies, design, project & works management, Integrated Project 1
- Semester 2 (Germany, THM Giessen): Sustainable cities, building physics, BIM/ICT, fire protection, Integrated Project 2
- Semester 3 (Spain, UC Santander): Infrastructures & circular economy, resilience, research, materials & techniques, Integrated Project 3
- Semester 4 (Portugal, Germany or Spain): Dissertation (30 ECTS) under faculty supervision, often in partnership with industry
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management or a closely related field
- If your background is slightly different (e.g. structural or building science), still apply—the Scientific Management team assesses case by case
- For non-native English speakers: proof of B2-level English (IELTS ≥ 5.5, TOEFL‑iBT ≥ 72, etc.), unless your prior education was entirely in English
How to apply for MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program
- Apply online via the MBUILD portal
- Submit academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, English certificate, and references
- Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed
Tips to win the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program
- Nail that motivation letter: explain your passion for sustainable construction and how MBUILD slots into your career goals
- Highlight relevant academic and practical experience—even side jobs or volunteering in sustainability or building projects
- Aim high in GPA; it’s a strong selection factor for Erasmus Mundus programs
- If you come from Pakistan or similar countries, check country-specific scholarship limits early to avoid disappointment
Application Timeline
| Step | Date/Period |
|---|---|
| Call for applications opens | Dec 6, 2024 |
| Application deadline | Jan 19, 2025 |
| Selection results | Early March 2025 |
| Program start | September 2025 |
| Dissertation submission | By July/August 2027 |
Curriculum Structure of the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1 (Portugal): 5 modules including Integrated Project 1 (30 ECTS)
- Semester 2 (Germany): 4 modules + Integrated Project 2 (30 ECTS)
- Semester 3 (Spain): 4 modules + Integrated Project 3 (30 ECTS)
- Semester 4: Master’s Dissertation under faculty/industry supervision (30 ECTS)
Coordinator Contact
Phone: +351220408597
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program?
The MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year international Master’s in sustainable design, construction, and management of the built environment, delivered by three European universities.
Who can apply for the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, architecture, construction management, or a related field are eligible to apply for the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program.
Is English proficiency required for the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, applicants must provide proof of English proficiency to be considered for the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program, unless their previous education was entirely in English.
Does the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program offer scholarships?
Yes, the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program offers fully funded scholarships under the Erasmus+ scheme, which cover tuition, travel, insurance, and a monthly stipend.
How competitive is the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program?
The MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program is highly competitive, with limited scholarships awarded to the top-ranked international candidates.
Can I apply to the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program without work experience?
Yes, work experience is not mandatory, but relevant academic or project-based experience can strengthen your application to the MBUILD Program.
Is the degree from the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program recognized internationally?
Yes, graduates of the MBUILD Program receive a joint or multiple degree from the partner universities, recognized across Europe and beyond.
What are the career prospects after completing the MBUILD Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the MBUILD Program are prepared for roles in sustainable construction, project management, environmental consulting, and academia.
