This Master's provides an in-depth education in cartography and geoinformatics, taught in English. The curriculum covers spatial information technologies; the mathematical foundations of map making; spatial data management; theories and technologies for visual analytics and geovisualisation; and the effective communication of spatial information. Teaching combines theoretical lectures with practical exercises, seminars and project work so you develop both technical and design-oriented skills for working with spatial data and maps.
The course is organised into compulsory and elective modules and is delivered across partner institutions. The first semester is taught at TUM, where core principles of cartography and geovisualisation are introduced. In the second semester at TUW the emphasis shifts to multimedia cartography including web mapping, mobile internet and location‑based services (LBS). The third semester at TUD allows you to specialise—particularly in mobile cartography and 3D cartography. During the first and third semesters you can also opt for online elective modules offered by the University of Twente.
This programme is well suited to students aiming to design, visualise and communicate spatial information across digital platforms (web, mobile, 3D). The mix of theory and applied projects helps prepare you for roles in geoinformatics, geospatial analysis, mapping and related fields where spatial visualisation and interactive mapping are central.
Key facts and structure
This full-time, two-year programme is delivered jointly by four partner universities and follows a fixed, mobility-based structure. Students move as a single cohort through the first three semesters: the first semester is taken at TUM (Germany), the second at TUW (Austria) and the third at TUD (Germany). The fourth semester is dedicated to preparing the Master’s thesis, which students complete at one of the cooperating universities — depending on the chosen thesis location the programme therefore involves study at three or four partner institutions.
The programme totals 120 ECTS, with 30 ECTS awarded each semester and 30 ECTS for the Master’s thesis. This consistent credit distribution reflects a balanced combination of taught coursework in the first three semesters and an independent research project in the final semester. Cohort-based progression during the taught semesters ensures shared learning experiences and collaboration across the partner institutions.
Learning outcomes and student experience emphasize an integrated, international education in cartography: students will complete a substantial research thesis, benefit from exposure to different academic environments and teaching cultures, and develop the advanced academic and professional skills expected from a 120 ECTS MSc programme delivered across multiple European universities. International applicants should plan for the mobility requirements (travel, visas/residence permits, and administrative registration) that come with studying at multiple institutions.
Requirements and key facts
This program is open to applicants who hold a strong undergraduate degree in a scientific or engineering discipline. Eligible backgrounds typically include subjects directly related to mapping, spatial sciences, geodesy and remote sensing, as well as computing and information technology areas that support cartographic work.
“Above-average” refers to a solid academic record at the Bachelor’s level; degrees awarded outside the local system are acceptable if they are judged to be equivalent to a Bachelor’s in a relevant science or engineering field. Applicants with degrees in closely related subjects who can demonstrate the necessary quantitative and technical foundation are encouraged to apply.
Requirements (summary)
Winter Semester (International)
15 March 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 May 2026
Graduates are prepared for technical and analytical roles in cartography and geoinformatics, such as GIS analyst, cartographer, web/mobile mapping developer, geovisualisation specialist, and spatial data scientist. The programme’s emphasis on spatial information technologies, visual analytics and 3D/mobile mapping also suits positions in mapping companies, geospatial service providers, government agencies, and location-based service industries.
The degree also provides a solid foundation for research and development roles or further academic study (e.g., PhD) in geoinformatics and related fields, supported by project work, internships and the international network of partner universities and associated industry contacts.