The MS2 Erasmus Mundus program (Mechanics of Sustainable Materials and Structures – MS²) is a two-year, 120 ECTS, triple-degree master’s jointly offered by TU Dortmund (Germany), University of Trento (Italy), and École Centrale de Nantes (France). Taught entirely in English, this high-mobility program prepares students to become innovative civil engineers focused on sustainable building materials and structures.
Students engage in cutting-edge mechanics, materials science, advanced computation (e.g., metamaterials, machine learning for structural health monitoring), and sustainability-related electives. With strong ties to academia and industry, the program readies graduates for PhD paths or impactful roles in civil engineering
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-10-2024
- End date 30-11-2030
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The MS2 Erasmus Mundus program offers students the opportunity to study at three top-tier universities across Europe.
| TU-Dortmund University |
| University of Trento |
| Ecole Centrale Nantes |
| France |
| Italy |
| Germany |
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 MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program
The MS2 Erasmus Mundus program equips students with both fundamental and advanced expertise in mechanics and sustainable materials. It emphasizes research excellence, environmental resilience, and real-world innovation through academia-industry integration.
Key features of the MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program
- Triple master’s degrees: M.Sc. from TU Dortmund, Laurea Magistrale from Trento, and M.Sc. ingénieur from Nantes
- 3-country study plan: Germany → Italy → France → final thesis anywhere within partners
- Specialisation tracks: structural engineering, advanced mechanics, resource-efficient design, innovative materials
- 120 ECTS over four semesters, including 30 ECTS Master’s thesis
- Scholarships: 15 EMJMD scholarships (€1,400/month) + 15 merit-based partial fee waivers
Mobility tracks of the MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1 (WS): TU Dortmund (Germany)
- Semester 2 (SS): University of Trento (Italy)
- Semester 3 (WS): École Centrale de Nantes (France)
- Semester 4: Master’s thesis – any partner university or associated institution
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s in civil engineering or related field per EQF
- Grade ≥ B (top ~35% / ≥ 2.8 “good” in German scale); conditional offers possible with tests or interview
- English proficiency ≥ B2 level
- Admission only in Winter semester
How to apply for MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program
- Apply online via MS2 portal and respective national admission systems
- Non-EU applicants: 1 Jan–15 Jun
- EU applicants: 1 Jan–31 Jul
- Submit transcripts, CV, English test scores, and references
- Complete EMJMD scholarship application (parallel to admission)
Tips to win the MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program
- Highlight strong academic records (top 35% class rank)
- Showcase sustainability-focused projects or research
- Demonstrate international adaptability and teamwork
- Secure strong academic references
- Apply early and prepare for written interview tests
Application Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application opens | Jan |
| Scholarship deadline (EMJMD) | June |
| EU applicant deadline | July |
| Program starts | Around Sept |
Curriculum Structure of the MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1 (Dortmund, 30 ECTS): Core modules: mathematics, continuum mechanics, nonlinear structural analysis, plus sustainability/case modules
- Semester 2 (Trento, 30 ECTS): Mechanics under extreme conditions, ML for structural monitoring, modeling & simulation + electives
- Semester 3 (Nantes, 30 ECTS): Porous media mechanics, homogenization, coupled problems, electives + summer school
- Semester 4 (30 ECTS): Master’s thesis at any partner or associated institution
Coordinator Contact
- Prof. Angela Madeo – TU Dortmund University (Program Lead)
- Prof. Francesco Dal Corso – University of Trento
- Prof. Giulio Sciarra – École Centrale de Nantes
- Program Coordinator: ms2.ab@tu-dortmund.de
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What scholarships are available for the MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program?
15 full EMJMD scholarships (~€1,400/mo for 24 months), plus 15 merit-based fee waivers
What background is needed for the MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program?
A bachelor’s in civil engineering (or equivalent), strong academic performance, and B2 English.
Are there intake limitations for MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program?
Only one intake per year in winter semester; admission through winter session only.
Can non-EU students apply to MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes. Non-EU applicants follow separate deadlines and funding routes.
Where can I do my Master’s thesis under the MS2 Erasmus Mundus Program?
At TU Dortmund, Trento, Nantes, or associated partners globally.
