Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation for Environmental Modelling and Management (GEM)

About the programme

This Erasmus Mundus programme is delivered by four leading European universities. The training prepares students to work with today’s and tomorrow’s environmental and sustainability challenges. The programme includes an internship, joint courses, an international study environment and mobility between two of the partner universities.

During the programme, you will learn to use geoinformation technology, remote sensing, AI and environmental modelling to create solutions that support climate adaptation, biodiversity, resource management and sustainable spatial planning. You will develop advanced technical skills in GIS, satellite data analysis, programming and geospatial workflows, while also training in critical thinking, project management and interdisciplinary collaboration.

With four career-oriented tracks – Geospatial Planner, Analyst, Developer and Modeller – you can specialise in areas such as urban planning, environmental monitoring, geospatial AI or the modelling of ecosystem and climate processes.

The Master’s thesis is carried out in collaboration with researchers and organisations within the global partner network.

During your studies

Studies within GEM combine advanced coursework, practical learning and international mobility. Joint online lectures and an annual consortium event bring all students together for workshops, career training, industry networking and methodological exchange.

During the first year, you will do foundational and advanced courses in GIS, remote sensing, programming and geospatial analysis at either Lund University or the University of Tartu. You will also complete a compulsory internship with one of the programme’s many international partner organisations. Internships are carried out within industry, public authorities or research institutes.

In the second year, you will specialise within your chosen track at ITC – University of Twente – or UCLouvain. The focus here is on advanced analyses, modelling and applications in fields such as the environment, planning or geospatial technology development.

Your studies conclude with a Master’s thesis, often conducted in collaboration with researchers or external organisations and linked to current societal challenges. Throughout the programme, you are supported by teachers, supervisors and a global alumni network.

After your studies

The GEM programme leads to career opportunities in both the public and private sectors, as well as in research. Upon graduation, you will master advanced analysis of geographic and satellite-based data, machine learning, environmental modelling and the development of geospatial workflows. These competencies are in demand worldwide.

Typical employers include environmental agencies, international organisations, consultancy firms, the space and climate sectors, sustainable urban development and natural resource management.

Possible roles are GIS analyst, remote sensing and EO specialist, environmental modeller, data scientist, geospatial developer or planning consultant.

The programme’s strong international alumni network and extensive partner organisations provide continued access to career support, research opportunities and lifelong learning through the Geoversity platform.

Applications

Find out more and apply at https://www.gem-msc.eu/