The Master
The European Master in Earthen Architecture and Construction (TERRA) is a unique programme dedicated to advancing knowledge and professional practice in earthen architecture and construction. Its first edition will take place in the 2026/2027 academic year as a funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Master.
TERRA is a one-year, full-time programme (60 ECTS) awarding a double Master’s degree, jointly delivered by the University of Minho (Portugal), the Technical University of Valencia (Spain), the Graduate School of Civil, Environmental and Urban Engineering from the National School of Public Works (France), and the University of Florence (Italy). The programme is held on a rotating basis among partners. Students complete their coursework at one university and develop their dissertation at another. The language of instruction and examination is English. The curriculum is structured around five core areas:
- Earthen Architecture and Building Culture
- Earthen Materials
- Functional Design and Sustainability
- Structural Analysis and Design
- Conservation of Earthen Buildings
Through an excellence-driven academic and research environment, students will develop a comprehensive and interdisciplinary skill set to address the complex challenges of earthen architecture and construction. Graduates will be equipped to stand out in a construction sector increasingly focused on sustainable solutions and in a rehabilitation market that demands specialised technical expertise.
Objectives
The TERRA is a highly specialised Master programme designed to educate a new generation of professionals capable of leading the transition towards sustainable construction practices. Graduates will be prepared to develop innovative earthen construction solutions, analyse the structural and environmental performance of earthen buildings, and implement conservation strategies for the rehabilitation of earthen architectural heritage.
The programme fosters a truly integrated approach between Architecture and Civil Engineering, grounded in a robust scientific foundation and aligned with the current global challenges in the construction sector. In addition to professional practice, graduates will be well prepared to pursue advanced research or doctoral studies in the field of Earthen Architecture and Construction. The curriculum combines traditional knowledge with cutting-edge scientific and technological advancements and is organized around five core areas of specialisation:
- Earthen Architecture and Building Culture
- Earthen Materials
- Functional Design and Sustainability
- Structural Analysis and Design
- Conservation of Earthen Buildings
Partners
Full Partners
The TERRA consortium brings together four leading higher education institutions of excellence, jointly awarding a double Master’s degree to its students.
University of Minho
Guimarães, Portugal
(Coordinator)
Technical University of Valencia
Valencia, Spain
Graduate School of Civil, Environmental and Urban Engineering
Lyon, France
University of Florence
Florence, Italy
Associated Partners
The TERRA Master’s programme is supported by a broad network of Associated Partners worldwide (up to 39 until now), including higher education institutions, research and development institutes, industry partners, associations and non-governmental organizations. The Associated Partners play a relevant role in Master’s activities by:
- Delivering lectures and seminars
- Co-supervising dissertations and hosting students during the dissertation period
- Contributing to the development of course materials
- Supporting graduates’ employability prospects
Programme Structure
The TERRA Master integrates the expertise of four leading European Higher Education Institutions in areas related to Earthen Architecture and Construction: the University of Minho (Portugal), the Technical University of Valencia (Spain), the Graduate School of Civil, Environmental and Urban Engineering at the National School of Public Works (France), and the University of Florence (Italy). Together, these partners deliver a high-level education programme founded on academic excellence and strong interdisciplinary collaboration.
Students engage with specialists from the complementary fields of Architecture and Civil Engineering through six coursework units (1st semester), hosted by two partner universities per edition on a rotating basis. The Master’s dissertation is completed during the 2nd semester and may be hosted at any of the four partner institutions. Students are required to complete their coursework and dissertation at different locations.
The mobility track is based on students’ preferences while ensuring an adequate balance among partner institutions and observing specific eligibility criteria. The curriculum remains identical across all mobility tracks, ensuring academic consistency and equivalence of learning outcomes
The programme also includes an Integration Week where all students will meet together at a partner institution not hosting coursework in that edition. Furthermore, a TERRA workshop series will be launched following the first edition to promote networking and collaboration among students, alumni, lecturers, researchers and professionals in the field.
The TERRA mobility scheme follows a two-edition cycle, with the full rotation (including the Integration Week), achieved after four editions, enabling students to visit up to three partner institutions during their studies. The table below summarises the full mobility cycle, including coursework, dissertation, Integration Week and TERRA Workshop.
TERRA Edition | Coursework | Dissertation | Integration Week |
|---|---|---|---|
1st | UMINHO, UPV | All Partners | ENTPE |
2nd | ENTPE, UNIFI | All Partners | UPV |
3rd | UMINHO, UPV | All Partners | UNIFI |
4th | ENTPE, UNIFI | All Partners | UMINHO |
TERRA is a one-year, full-time programme. The study plan comprises seven course units:
- five sequential units and one project-based learning unit delivered during the 1st semester (September to February), each worth 5 ECTS (i.e. 45 hours of lectures and 95 hours of independent student work)
- one dissertation conducted during the 2nd semester (March to July), worth 30 ECTS (i.e. 15 hours of supervision and 825 hours of independent research work).
The curriculum is identical for all students, regardless of their mobility track. Attendance in all seven course units is mandatory, requiring students’ physical presence in the classroom.
Unit 1 (5 ECTS): Earthen Architecture and Building Culture
Coordinator: Luisa Rovero
Description: This unit covers essential topics for a comprehensive understanding of earthen architecture and building culture. It provides students with critical insights into cultural background, relationship with vernacular architecture, monumental and World Heritage sites, and traditional building techniques. Additionally, the unit focuses on new developments in earthen construction by addressing contemporary building techniques, contemporary architecture and discussing the future of Earthen Architecture.
Main learning objectives:
- Identify the cultural background of earthen architecture
- Recognize different key aspects of vernacular earthen architecture
- Describe specific features of monuments and World Heritage sites built with earth
- Discern different key aspects of traditional and contemporary earthen building techniques
- Design architectural details of contemporary earthen architecture
- Assess the potential and prospective of earthen architecture
Unit 2 (5 ECTS): Earthen Materials
Coordinator: Jean-Claude Morel
Description: This unit addresses the fundamental concepts necessary for understanding and optimising the production processes of various earthen materials. It explores key aspects related to raw soil selection, including soil classification, extraction concerns, physical and mechanical characterisation, and suitability assessment for producing earthen materials. Additionally, it delves into the processing of earthen materials, with a particular focus on stabilisation techniques, such as physical, mechanical, and chemical stabilisation, as well as the control of essential material properties. Special attention is given to modern processing methods, including additive manufacturing with earth. The unit also emphasises the design and application of earthen mortars, exploring their role as protective coatings for walls and for laying masonry. Furthermore, it introduces life cycle analysis concepts, enabling students to assess the sustainability of production processes for different earthen materials.
Main learning objectives:
- Identify proper soils for producing different earthen materials
- Discern the main physical and mechanical properties of earthen materials
- Identify the relevant tests for characterisation of soil properties
- Comprehend soil stabilisation principles, benefits, shortfalls and limits
- Characterise all stages necessary for the implementation of earthen materials and the on-site control quality
- Implement the appropriate earthen mortars acting as binders or wall protectors
- Assess the sustainability of the production process
Unit 3 (5 ECTS): Functional Design and Sustainability
Coordinator: Ricardo Mateus
Description: This unit covers essential aspects for the functional design and sustainability assessment of earthen buildings. It provides students with fundamental concepts of sustainability and the hygrothermal behaviour of earthen materials. Additionally, it focuses on the functional characterisation of building products and elements, as well as the experimental characterisation of earthen materials. The thermal design and life cycle assessment of earthen buildings are also key topics addressed in this unit.
Main learning objectives:
- Identify the impacts of the building sector and the life cycle assessment stages of earthen constructions
- Define the principles of sustainable and energy-efficient design
- Understand the scientific terminology and methodological approaches that form the basis of simulation models for building components
- Estimate the thermal performance of buildings while considering critical design aspects
- Select thermo-physical performance improvement approaches, considering energy efficiency and sustainability
- Identify the constraints imposed by functional requirements, as well as the characteristics and properties of earthen materials
- Assess the sustainability of earthen buildings using recognised standards, methods, and tools
- Explain the characteristics of a high-performance design, considering the entire life cycle of the building
Unit 4 (5 ECTS): Structural Analysis and Design
Coordinator: Daniel Oliveira
Description: This unit covers the fundamental concepts necessary for the structural analysis and design of earthen buildings. It begins by addressing the main aspects regarding the structural characterisation of earthen elements. Then, it addresses the performance of wall elements subjected to static loads and the seismic behaviour of earthen structures, with emphasis on the structural design of earthen elements. The unit also focuses on existing earthen buildings, exploring structural assessment methods and strengthening techniques. Finally, code-related aspects concerning design and assessment are considered.
Main learning objectives:
- Identify the key parameters controlling the structural behaviour of earthen elements
- Conduct static analysis of wall elements
- Perform seismic analysis of earthen structures
- Design earthen structural elements
- Assess the structural performance of earthen buildings
- Model appropriate strengthening techniques
- Apply code-based procedures for design and assessment
Unit 5 (5 ECTS): Conservation of Earthen Buildings
Coordinator: Camilla Mileto
Description: This unit covers key topics essential for carrying out conservation activities related to earthen built heritage. It begins by addressing damage mechanisms and pathologies in earthen buildings, as well as the degradation processes affecting earthen materials. The unit then focuses on inspection and diagnosis methods, with particular emphasis on destructive and non-destructive testing of earthen materials and structures, as well as the structural analysis of existing buildings. Finally, it explores conservation principles and intervention solutions, illustrated through case studies of historical earthen buildings.
Main learning objectives:
- Identify damage agents and pathologies in earthen buildings
- Explain degradation mechanisms of earthen materials and walls
- Apply appropriate inspection and diagnosis methodologies
- Use destructive and non-destructive testing for earthen materials and structures
- Assess the condition of existing earthen structures
- Understand the conservation principles applied to earthen built heritage
- Prescribe intervention solutions for the conservation of earthen built heritage
Unit 6 (5 ECTS): Integrated Project on Earthen Construction
Coordinator: Rui Silva
Description: This unit includes field visits and seminars on relevant topics not covered in the other coursework units. However, its primary focus is a case study group project, where students will progressively apply the knowledge acquired in previous units with respect to the design of new earthen constructions, structural analysis of earthen buildings, inspection and diagnosis of existing earthen structures, and the design of intervention measures for earthen heritage conservation. This Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach is expected to generate additional knowledge and enhance practical problem-solving skills.
Main learning objectives:
- Characterise key aspects of earthen building techniques
- Identify the stages associated with the implementation of earthen materials
- Recognise the constraints imposed by functional requirements, sustainability optimisation and material characteristics
- Perform structural analysis of earthen structures
- Apply code-based procedures for earthen elements
- Use inspection and diagnosis techniques
- Assess the condition of earthen buildings
Unit 7 (30 ECTS): Dissertation
Coordinator: Paulo Lourenço
Description: This unit aims to develop critical research skills by exploring concepts, models, and methodologies relevant to the research work under investigation. It enables students to conduct original research, integrating knowledge acquired throughout the coursework units while addressing complex issues in multidisciplinary contexts. Through this process, students will formulate solutions and engage in critical reflections on their chosen research topics. The final stage of the unit involves synthesising their findings into a dissertation. Whenever possible, dissertation topics will include short research stays at Associated Partners’ facilities or the analysis of case studies, further enhancing the practical and applied dimensions of the research.
Main learning objectives:
- Plan a structured set of logical tasks and defining appropriate methodological approaches
- Deal with complex technical topics
- Integrate knowledge from different fields
- Propose innovative solutions in situations of limited or incomplete information
- Communicate research findings to both specialist and non-specialist audiences
- Recognise and address ethical considerations in research and development work
Team
Consortium Management Board
Daniel V. Oliveira
TERRA Principal Coordinator
Associate Professor with Habilitation at UMINHO
Associate Professor with Habilitation at UMINHO, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2003). Expert in traditional masonry, earthen construction and earthquake engineering, combining experimental and numerical analysis. His research is widely published, and he has extensive experience in teaching and the coordination of international programmes.
Camilla Mileto
TERRA Coordinator at UPV
Full Professor at UPV
Full Professor at UPV, holds a PhD in Architecture (2004). Expert in architectural heritage preservation and earthen architecture, partner of the UNESCO Chair on Earthen Architecture and leading international R&D projects. Her work bridges research, education and heritage dissemination.
Jean-Claude Morel
TERRA Coordinator at ENTPE
Research Director at ENTPE
Research Director at ENTPE, holds a PhD in Soil Mechanics (1996). Internationally renowned expert on earthen and drystone structures, with extensive experience in experimental and numerical research. He has chaired major RILEM committees and led numerous international projects in the field.
Luisa Rovero
TERRA Coordinator at UNIFI
Associate Professor at UNIFI
Associate Professor at UNIFI, holds a PhD in Structural Mechanics (1996). Expert in traditional masonry and earthen structures, with focus on strengthening and numerical modelling. She has contributed to UNESCO missions and international research on cultural heritage protection.
Consortium Deputy Team
Rui A. Silva
Assistant Researcher
Assistant Researcher at ISISE, UMINHO, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2013). His research focuses on earthen construction, including characterisation, modelling, strengthening and durability. He was the Principal Investigator of project SafEarth and has been active in several RILEM committees on earth materials.
Rafael Ramirez
Postdoctoral Researcher
Researcher at ISISE (UMINHO), holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2023). His research focuses on the hygro-thermo-mechanical behaviour of masonry and the conservation of built cultural heritage. He has contributed to international projects on the assessment and preservation of historical structures, including scientific and management activities.
Teaching Staff - University of Minho (UMINHO)
Daniel V. Oliveira
TERRA Principal Coordinator
Associate Professor with Habilitation at UMINHO
Associate Professor with Habilitation at UMINHO, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2003). Expert in traditional masonry, earthen construction and earthquake engineering, combining experimental and numerical analysis. His research is widely published, and he has extensive experience in teaching and the coordination of international programmes.
Graça Vasconcelos
Associate Professor
Associate Professor at UMINHO, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2005). Expert in traditional and modern masonry, with strong experience in experimental analysis and rehabilitation of structures. Her work spans structural characterisation, conservation and teaching in sustainable construction.
Paulo B. Lourenço
Full Professor
Full Professor at UMINHO, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (1996). Internationally recognised expert in masonry, earthen and historic structures, with extensive experience in experimental testing, numerical modelling and code development. He coordinates major R&D projects and leads the revision of the European Masonry Code.
Paulo Mendonça
Associate Professor
Associate Professor at UMINHO, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2005). Expert in non-conventional and sustainable architecture, particularly earthen and lightweight systems, integrating experimental and simulation approaches. His work bridges architectural design, energy efficiency and environmental performance.
Rafael Ramirez
Postdoctoral Researcher
Researcher at ISISE (UMINHO), holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2023). His research focuses on the hygro-thermo-mechanical behaviour of masonry and the conservation of built cultural heritage. He has contributed to international projects on the assessment and preservation of historical structures, including scientific and management activities.
Ricardo Mateus
Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor at UMINHO, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2009). Expert in sustainable construction, life cycle and energy performance assessment of vernacular buildings. His research contributes to national and European sustainability standards and environmental product declarations.
Rui A. Silva
Assistant Researcher
Assistant Researcher at ISISE, UMINHO, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2013). His research focuses on earthen construction, including characterisation, modelling, strengthening and durability. He was the Principal Investigator of project SafEarth and has been active in several RILEM committees on earth materials.
Teaching Staff - Technical University of Valencia (UPV)
Alicia Hueto
Researcher
Researcher at UPV, holds a PhD in Architecture (2022). Her work focuses on traditional building techniques, particularly half-timbered and earthen systems. She participates in international projects and educational activities under the UNESCO Chair.
Camilla Mileto
TERRA Coordinator at UPV
Full Professor at UPV
Full Professor at UPV, holds a PhD in Architecture (2004). Expert in architectural heritage preservation and earthen architecture, partner of the UNESCO Chair on Earthen Architecture and leading international R&D projects. Her work bridges research, education and heritage dissemination.
Fernando Vegas
Full Professor
Full Professor at UPV, holds a PhD in Architecture (2000). His research focuses on conservation and valuation of monumental and vernacular heritage, integrating material, technical and cultural dimensions. He has extensive experience in consultancy and leadership of research projects on heritage conservation.
Lidia García Soriano
Associate Professor
Associate Professor at UPV, holds a PhD in Architecture (2015). Her research focuses on earthen architecture, traditional construction techniques and conservation criteria. She participates in several European projects and teaches architectural heritage and practical workshops on traditional techniques.
Sergio Manzano
Researcher
Research technician and teaching collaborator at UPV, holds PhD in Architecture (2023). His research focuses on earthen building conservation and archaeological heritage. He contributes to academic publications and projects in architectural restoration.
Valentina Cristini
Associate Professor
Associate Professor at UPV, holds a PhD in Architecture and directs the Master in Preservation of Architectural Heritage. Expert in architectural conservation, traditional materials and heritage education, actively collaborating with European and international institutions and committees on restoration practices.
Yolanda Hernández
Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor at UPV, holds a PhD in Architectural Heritage (2015). Expert in traditional architecture and sustainability, with practical experience in conservation using traditional materials and methods. She teaches restoration, architectural composition and design-related disciplines.
Teaching Staff - Graduate School of Civil, Environmental and Urban Engineering (ENTPE)
Antonin Fabbri
Full Research Professor
Full Research Professor at ENTPE, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2006). Expert in poromechanics and multiphysics of earthen and bio-based materials, actively contributing to RILEM committees and leading research on sustainable materials. His work integrates advanced modelling and experimental testing.
Emmanuel Gourdon
Research Professor
Research Professor at ENTPE, holds a PhD in Mechanics and Civil Engineering (2006). Expert in building acoustics and material physico-chemistry, combining research on sustainable construction materials with applied teaching and supervision in building sciences.
Jean-Claude Morel
TERRA Coordinator at ENTPE
Research Director at ENTPE
Research Director at ENTPE, holds a PhD in Soil Mechanics (1996). Internationally renowned expert on earthen and drystone structures, with extensive experience in experimental and numerical research. He has chaired major RILEM committees and led numerous international projects in the field.
Joachim Blanc-Gonnet
Research Engineer
Research Engineer at ENTPE, holds a Master in Computer Science (2002). Specialist in experimental design and laboratory testing of earthen, drystone and bio-based structures, coordinating practical laboratory work for students and research teams.
Stéphane Hans
Associate Research Professor
Associate Research Professor at ENTPE, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2002). Expert in dynamic behaviour of structures and seismic assessment, with applications to earthen and bio-based materials. He coordinates the Civil Engineering Master at ENTPE and participates in several R&D projects. Research Engineer at ENTPE, holds a Master in Computer Science (2002). Specialist in experimental design and laboratory testing of earthen, drystone and bio-based structures, coordinating practical laboratory work for students and research teams.
Teaching Staff - University of Florence (UNIFI)
Carla Balocco
Associate Professor
Associate Professor of Environmental Applied Physics at UNIFI, holds a PhD in Energy Engineering (1995). Expert in building thermo-physics, energy sustainability and indoor environmental quality. Her research addresses green regeneration, cultural heritage conservation and well-being in built environments.
Giulia Misseri
Researcher
Researcher at UNIFI, holds a PhD in Structures and Conservation (2017). Expert in testing and modelling of masonry reinforcement systems, with research focused on seismic performance and strengthening of heritage buildings. Active member of ICOMOS-ISCEAH.
Giovanna Ranocchiai
Research Professor
Associate Professor at UNIFI, holds a PhD in the History of Construction Sciences (1998). Expert in experimental mechanics and masonry behaviour, integrating traditional and innovative materials. Her teaching and research focus on structural mechanics and conservation engineering.
Letizia Dipasquale
Associate Professor
Associate Professor at UNIFI, holds a PhD in Architecture and Design Technology (2012). Expert in vernacular and earthen architecture, sustainability and heritage enhancement. She collaborates with international networks such as ICOMOS ISCEAH and leads projects on circular and bio-based building design.
Luisa Rovero
TERRA Coordinator at UNIFI
Associate Professor at UNIFI
Associate Professor at UNIFI, holds a PhD in Structural Mechanics (1996). Expert in traditional masonry and earthen structures, with focus on strengthening and numerical modelling. She has contributed to UNESCO missions and international research on cultural heritage protection.
Michele Coppola
Assistant Professor
Associate Professor at UNIFI, holds a PhD in Preservation of Architectural Heritage (2012). Expert in conservation of ruins and archaeological sites, focusing on ancient Mediterranean construction techniques and stone diagnostics. He leads the Laboratory of Architectural Restoration and participates in international missions.
Saverio Mecca
Professor Emeritus
Professor Emeritus at UNIFI, holds a Master in Architecture (1977). Expert in traditional and earthen construction, knowledge modelling and project management. Former Dean of the Faculty and Department of Architecture, he has coordinated major R&D projects and advanced training programmes on sustainable building.
Simone Secchi
Associate Professor
Associate Professor at UNIFI, holds a PhD in Technical Physics (1998). Expert in architectural and environmental acoustics, lighting and building technology. He contributes extensively to national and international research and conferences on environmental quality in architecture.
Secretariat
Ana Fonseca
Master in History, International Relations and Cooperation
General Secretary – University of Minho
External Advisory Committee
An external advisory committee composed of international renowned experts on Earthen Architecture and Construction provides assessments and advice on the plan of action to undertake for eventual improvements, on annual basis. Currently, the external advisory committee is constituted by:
Coming soon…
Alumni
Alumni information will be available after the first batch graduates.
Professional Perspectives
TERRA graduates will emerge as highly skilled professionals equipped to address the growing global demand for sustainable, resilient and culturally grounded construction solutions. The programme offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education, combining engineering, architecture, materials science, conservation and sustainability. This broad foundation enables graduates to work across the full spectrum of the construction sector, from designing new earthen buildings to conserving architectural heritage and developing sustainable materials and technologies.
Why Earthen Architecture and Construction
The relevance of earthen architecture is increasingly evident in light of pressing global challenges. The construction sector currently accounts for about 40% of global energy consumption and nearly 25% of Europe’s industrial output, with an annual turnover of approximately €1200 billion. Transitioning to low-impact materials, such as earth, is therefore essential to meet international climate goals. Earthen materials can produce CO₂ emissions as low as 0.1 tons per ton of material, among the lowest embodied energy values of all building materials. Moreover, more than 10% of UNESCO World Heritage sites include earthen structures, reflecting not only their deep cultural significance but also the urgent need for specialists trained in their preservation. However, only a limited number of professionals worldwide currently possess the technical expertise required for their conservation.
Meanwhile, the global green building market is undergoing unprecedented growth (from €600 billion in 2022 to a projected €1300 billion by 2030), while the European market is expected to more than double (from €54 billion in 2021 to €120 billion by 2028). This rapid expansion creates strong opportunities for earthen and bio-based solutions that integrate circularity, carbon neutrality, and bioclimatic design principles.
Earthen construction also offers significant environmental and health benefits. Buildings made from raw earth can reduce energy use by up to 99% compared with conventional materials, while ensuring superior thermal comfort and indoor air quality through natural hygrothermal regulation. Additionally, the reuse of local soils further contributes to waste reduction and resource efficiency.
A Growing Demand for Sustainable Expertise
In a global context increasingly shaped by climate challenges and resource scarcity, earthen and bio-based materials are gaining renewed recognition as viable, low-impact alternatives for construction. The knowledge and skills acquired through TERRA will prepare graduates to respond to this demand, positioning them as key contributors to the transition toward circular and carbon-neutral built environments. Their expertise will be particularly relevant for the design and rehabilitation of vernacular and traditional buildings, as well as for the promotion of sustainable housing strategies in both developed and emerging regions.
TERRA graduates will play an active role in advancing international sustainability objectives, contributing to the European Green Deal’s goal of climate neutrality by 2050 and to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 11, 12, 13, and 17), promoting sustainable cities, responsible consumption, climate action, and global partnerships.
Career Opportunities Across Sectors
TERRA alumni will be equipped to pursue careers in a wide range of professional contexts, including:
- Architectural and engineering practices, specialising in sustainable design, conservation, and material innovation.
- Construction companies and consultancies, focused on eco-efficient technologies and circular building solutions.
- Public administration and local authorities, working on urban regeneration, heritage conservation, and sustainable development planning.
- International organisations, NGOs, and development agencies, engaged in post-disaster reconstruction, cultural heritage preservation, and capacity-building initiatives in developing regions.
- Research and higher education institutions, advancing to PhD programmes or joining research teams dedicated to earthen architecture, material science, and environmental performance.
An International and Interdisciplinary Network
The Consortium Universities (UMINHO, UPV, ENTPE and UNIFI), together with a diverse group of Associated Partners, offer students extensive exposure to a range of academic and professional environments. Through mobility across three countries, internships, fieldwork and collaboration with leading research centres, students will engage directly with experts and institutions at the forefront of Earthen Architecture and Construction. This strong international ecosystem fosters high employability and long-term integration into a global professional network dedicated to sustainable and heritage-based building practices.
A Profile for the Future of Construction
TERRA graduates will be at the forefront of the green transition, combining technical excellence with cultural awareness. Equipped to innovate, conserve, and advocate, they will play a decisive role in shaping the construction sector toward carbon neutrality. Whether working on the conservation of heritage sites or the design of next-generation earthen buildings, TERRA alumni will serve as ambassadors of responsible architecture and construction, contributing to a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient world.
Studying With Us
Study, Research and be Happy in Portugal, Spain, France and Italy.
Study and Research in Portugal
Embark on a transformative journey in Portugal, where each day offers an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of this remarkable country. Immerse yourself in the culture, savor the delectable cuisine, embrace the breathtaking natural landscapes, and delve into the language while expanding your horizons with new knowledge. Join a vibrant community of individuals who have found inspiration by choosing Portugal as their destination for study and research.
Study and Research in Spain
Spain, a vibrant canvas of culture and passion, invites you to discover its world of endless wonder. From the lively streets of Barcelona to the historic charm of Seville, the country exudes a palpable sense of excitement. Flamenco rhythms and the aroma of tapas linger in the air as people gather in the warm embrace of the sun. Savour the rich tapestry of Spanish cuisine, a fusion of flavours that delights the senses. In Spain, tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously, offering a captivating blend of art, history, and vitality that leaves a lasting impression.
Study and Research in France
Embark on a transformative educational journey in France, where every moment invites you to explore a world of culture, art, history, and innovation. Immerse yourself in its exquisite cuisine, wander through picturesque landscapes, and embrace the elegance of the French language while expanding your intellectual horizons. Join a vibrant community of individuals who have found their passion in France, where excellence in study and research is a true way of life. Discover the art of learning and the joy of discovery in a country where your dreams and aspirations come to life.
Study and Research in Italy
Italy, a timeless masterpiece, captivates with its rich tapestry of history, art, and culture. From enchanting cobblestone streets to magnificent Renaissance architecture, every corner tells a story of beauty and heritage. The aroma of freshly brewed espresso drifts through lively piazzas, where conversations echo the passion of its people. Savour the country’s celebrated cuisine, a mosaic of flavours that delight the senses. In Italy, the past and the present blend seamlessly, offering an experience defined by art, romance, and the pure joy of living.