The European Master in Earthen Architecture and Construction (TERRA) is launching its first edition in the 2026/2027 academic year as an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s. This program offers a unique opportunity for students worldwide to specialize in sustainable earthen construction while earning a double Master’s degree from four leading European universities.
Table of Contents
Erasmus Mundus TERRA Scholarship Summary
| Host Countries | Portugal, Spain, France, Italy |
| Program Name | European Master in Earthen Architecture and Construction |
| Funded By | European Union |
| Eligible Nationalities | All |
| Degree Level | Master’s |
| Type | Fully Funded |
| Scholarship Duration | 2 Year |
| Deadline | Mentioned below |
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Why Choose the TERRA Master?
Earthen architecture is gaining global attention due to its environmental sustainability, resilience, and cultural heritage value. Graduates of the TERRA Master’s will develop skills in:
- Designing and constructing earthen buildings
- Analyzing structural and environmental performance
- Conserving historic earthen architecture
- Implementing sustainable construction solutions
The program combines Architecture and Civil Engineering, blending traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches.
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Participating Universities
- University of Minho (Portugal)
- Technical University of Valencia (Spain)
- Graduate School of Civil, Environmental and Urban Engineering (ENTPE) (France)
- University of Florence (Italy)
Program Structure
TERRA is a one-year, full-time program (60 ECTS). It includes:
Semester 1 – Coursework:
- Earthen Architecture and Building Culture (5 ECTS)
- Earthen Materials (5 ECTS)
- Functional Design and Sustainability (5 ECTS)
- Structural Analysis and Design (5 ECTS)
- Conservation of Earthen Buildings (5 ECTS)
- Integrated Project on Earthen Construction (5 ECTS)
Semester 2 – Dissertation:
- 30 ECTS research project at one of the partner universities
Mobility: Students rotate among partner universities in Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy. An Integration Week and workshops provide networking opportunities with alumni, professors, and industry professionals.
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Admission Requirements
To apply, candidates must have:
- A Bachelor’s degree (240 ECTS) or combined Bachelor + Master (300 ECTS) in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related fields
- English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent
- Submission of a motivation letter, CV, transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of residence (for first call)
Applicants graduating before July 31, 2026, can apply conditionally.
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Application Timeline
First Call (recommended for EU funding):
- Deadline: February 15, 2026
- Interviews: March 2–6, 2026
- Admission Notification: March 31, 2026
Second Call:
- Deadline: April 15, 2026
- Admission Notification: May 15, 2026
Third Call (optional):
- Deadline: June 15, 2026
- Admission Notification: June 30, 2026
Deposit: 250 EUR (refundable upon registration at the host university)
Tuition Fees and Living Costs
- Tuition Fee: 9,000 EUR, covering administration, academic support, and health insurance
- Average Monthly Living Costs (excluding accommodation):
- Guimarães, Portugal: 650 EUR
- Valencia, Spain: 700 EUR
- Lyon, France: 1,000 EUR
- Florence, Italy: 950 EUR
- Accommodation: 300–600 EUR per month
Scholarships
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships
- Fully cover tuition (9,000 EUR) and provide 1,400 EUR/month for travel, visa, installation, and subsistence
- Available for students from Programme Countries (up to 3) and Partner Countries (up to 7)
Consortium Scholarships
- Fully or partially cover tuition:
- 9,000 EUR (2 scholarships)
- 6,000 EUR (4 scholarships)
- 3,000 EUR (6 scholarships)
Additional Funding
Students can explore government loans or grants in countries such as Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Mexico, and Colombia.
Career Opportunities
TERRA graduates are in demand in fields such as:
- Sustainable construction and green architecture
- Rehabilitation of earthen heritage buildings
- Research, innovation, and policy-making in construction and materials
- International consultancy on cultural heritage preservation
The program equips students with interdisciplinary expertise, making them highly competitive in Europe and globally.
How to Apply
- Prepare your CV, motivation letter, transcripts, and English certificate
- Submit your application via the TERRA online portal
- Select your scholarship preference (Erasmus Mundus or Consortium)
- Attend interviews (if preselected)
- Confirm enrolment with the deposit payment
TERRA Master 2026/2027 is your gateway to becoming a leader in sustainable and earthen architecture. With international exposure, scholarships, and interdisciplinary learning, this program combines academic excellence with real-world impact.
