GEM4 Land Use Systems

GEM Joint Master programme

Erasmus+ MSc in geo-information science and Earth observation for environmental modelling and management

How we use and change the land to provide us with the resources we need to live has an impact on climate change. Similarly, climate change impacts the health and productivity of land and the liveability of our cities. Humans have changed the face of the planet. We face the constant challenge of how to manage and monitor land use change and how to plan future land use in our changing environment. Policies that lead to sustainable and resilient land use require an in-depth understanding of Land Use Systems and a solid background in innovative geospatial data and technology.

According to the 2019 IPCC report, sustainable land management contributes to reducing the negative impacts of multiple stressors, including climate change, on ecosystems and societies. Ensuring resilient landscapes combining agriculture, forestry, settlement and nature conservation requires geospatial analysis, socio-ecological planning, and knowledge of the climate-related challenges.

Climate research and the impact of land use changes on climate is a large market that continues to grow (estimated at €5.1 billion in 2023). There is a high demand for skilled postgraduates with broad knowledge and practical expertise in Earth Observation and geospatial technologies to reduce our anthropogenic impacts and mitigate climate change.

This project by Abdullah Toqeer aimed to compare the urbanization trends in urban agglomerations of China and the United States of America.

• A unique international experience

  In the GEM for Land Use Systems track you will learn how to assess the impact of such changes using innovative geospatial technology, Earth observation data and knowhow. In year one, University of Tartu will offer you courses in geospatial analysis, basic remote sensing and socio-ecological/urban and planning.

  Year two will be dedicated to UCLouvain’s courses on environmental challenges related to agriculture, forestry and nature conservation in the context of climate change.

• Request the brochureExplore how the GEM for Land Use Systems track provides you with the geospatial knowledge and skills to join this growing market for sustainable land use and nature conservation in the context of climate change.

Four different tracks for a two-year programme 

How to apply?

Applying to the GEM programme can be done in just a few steps and is free of cost. Just follow the steps on our application procedure page: Application procedure

The tuition fee and additional costs are to be fully paid in advance to cover the total duration of the course. Applicants can request the facility to pay their total expenses in two equal annual instalments.

"The GEM MSc programme has been an excellent experience for me. It is designed according to industry demands and helps you build a strong foundation in Environment, Urban Planning, and Climate Change using GIS and Remote Sensing skills. Also, under the umbrella of Erasmus, I got the chance to meet and study with people from diverse backgrounds and live in different European countries, which helped me grow and make great memories. All in all, this GEM programme is truly a gem!"

Abdullah Toqeer (GEM Track 2: Land Use Systems)