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Applications Open: Erasmus Mundus International Joint Master in Groundwater and Global Change – Impacts and Adaptation

Applications are now open for the 2026–2028 edition of the Groundwater and Global Change – Impacts and Adaptation (GroundwatCH) International Joint Master Programme. This prestigious Erasmus Mundus Master’s Degree offers future water and environmental professionals the opportunity to study in three world-leading universities, gaining expertise in sustainable groundwater management, hydrology, and climate adaptation.

The application portal opens on 1 October 2025, with the Erasmus Mundus scholarship deadline set for January and February 2026, depending on the applicant’s country category. The next cohort begins in September 2026.


About the Programme

GroundwatCH is an innovative joint master’s programme that equips students with the interdisciplinary skills needed to tackle one of the world’s most pressing challenges: managing groundwater resources in the context of global change. The programme focuses on understanding groundwater processes, assessing environmental impacts, and developing adaptation strategies that contribute to global sustainability goals.

Designed for graduates with a strong interest in environmental science, hydrology, or engineering, GroundwatCH brings together top academic institutions and industry experts to deliver a truly international and applied learning experience.


Study Across Three Leading European Universities

The programme spans four semesters (two years) and is structured to combine theory, research, and professional exposure across Europe:

  • 1st Semester: Lisbon, Portugal (September – February)
    Students begin at Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), Portugal’s leading engineering school. The semester provides a foundation in environmental engineering, hydrology, and climate-related systems.

  • 2nd Semester: Delft, The Netherlands (March – July)
    The next phase takes place at IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, the world’s largest graduate water education institute. Participants engage in advanced water management, data analysis, and field-based learning with exposure to real-world case studies.

  • 3rd Semester: Dresden, Germany (September – February)
    Hosted at TU Dresden, one of Germany’s top technical universities, this semester focuses on climate science, hydrology, and water resource engineering. Students integrate scientific, environmental, and technical knowledge to design adaptation solutions.

  • 4th Semester: Thesis and Research (March – August)
    Students complete a master’s thesis at one of the three partner universities or through collaboration with an industry, research, or public-sector partner.

Upon graduation, participants receive three master’s degrees jointly awarded by IHE Delft, TU Dresden, and Instituto Superior Técnico — fully accredited and mutually recognized across Europe.


Erasmus Mundus Scholarships

A limited number of Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) scholarships are available for the 2026–2028 intake. Approximately 15 scholarships will be awarded on a competitive basis.

Each scholarship covers:

  • Full tuition and participation costs (including laboratory fees, insurance, and administrative expenses)

  • A monthly allowance of €1,400 for living, travel, and installation costs for 24 months

  • Additional financial support for students with disabilities, where applicable

Scholarships are open to applicants from both Partner Countries (non-EU) and Programme Countries (EU/EEA and associated states). Applicants with dual nationality must indicate under which nationality they are applying.

For more information, click here.


Application and Admission

The application process is entirely online via the official Groundwater and Global Change website.

Applicants must upload certified copies of academic diplomas, transcripts, a CV, an English language test (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent), and two recommendation letters. Additionally, candidates must answer five motivation questions focused on their career goals and interest in groundwater management. The use of AI tools such as ChatGPT is discouraged and may negatively impact evaluation results.

Key Deadlines:

  • Partner Countries: 5 January 2026, 23:59 CET

  • Programme Countries: 2 February 2026, 23:59 CET

  • Reduced tuition and self-funded applicants: 15 April 2026 (with earlier deadlines for visa applicants)

Applicants will be notified of results by April 2026. Candidates not selected for an Erasmus Mundus scholarship may still be considered for academic admission or partial tuition fee reduction.

The language of instruction is English. Students will also have opportunities to take Portuguese, Dutch, and German language classes during their studies.


Why Choose GroundwatCH?

The GroundwatCH Master’s Programme offers more than academic knowledge—it provides the chance to join a global network of professionals dedicated to sustainable water management. Graduates emerge ready to shape environmental policy, manage water resources, and lead innovative projects addressing the growing challenges of climate change and water scarcity.

For more details, visit the official Groundwater and Global Change website or contact erasmusregistration-gw@un-ihe.org.

Stay here for more opportunities.

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