Cardiovascular Research

The Master's degree in Cardiovascular Research at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for a successful career in cardiovascular science and medicine. This program offers in-depth knowledge of the biological and molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases, as well as the latest techniques and methodologies used in contemporary cardiovascular research. Students will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technologies, including advanced imaging, molecular biology, and data analysis tools, enabling them to conduct innovative research projects.

The program emphasizes a strong foundation in both basic and clinical sciences, fostering an understanding of how experimental findings translate into improved diagnostics, treatments, and prevention strategies for cardiovascular conditions. Throughout the curriculum, students will participate in laboratory work, seminars, and internships, often collaborating with leading experts in the field. The interdisciplinary nature of the program encourages integration of knowledge from fields such as biology, medicine, pharmacology, and bioinformatics, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to address complex cardiovascular issues from multiple perspectives.

Career opportunities for graduates include research positions in academia, industry, and healthcare institutions, as well as roles in pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, and health policy organizations. The program aims to develop not only scientific expertise but also critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex scientific information effectively. Graduates will be prepared to contribute to advancing cardiovascular health through research, innovation, and the development of new therapeutic approaches.

The curriculum is structured to provide a balanced combination of coursework, practical training, and research. Students can choose specialized tracks aligned with their interests, such as molecular cardiology, vascular biology, or translational research. The program is taught in English, welcoming international students and fostering a diverse learning environment. With its strong focus on research and practical experience, the Cardiovascular Research Master's program at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an excellent platform for those aspiring to make meaningful contributions to the understanding and treatment of cardiovascular diseases worldwide.

The Master's programme in Cardiovascular Research at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education designed to prepare students for a career in cardiovascular science and medicine. Throughout the programme, students delve into the molecular, cellular, and systemic mechanisms that underlie cardiovascular diseases, gaining a deep understanding of how the heart and blood vessels function in health and illness. The curriculum combines core courses in cardiovascular biology, experimental techniques, and advanced research methods with practical laboratory training, allowing students to develop their skills in cutting-edge technologies such as imaging, genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics. Students are encouraged to adopt an integrative approach, linking basic research to clinical applications, which prepares them for roles in academia, the healthcare sector, or the biotechnology industry.

The programme emphasizes independent research, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world projects in close collaboration with experienced researchers and clinicians. This hands-on experience is complemented by coursework in scientific writing, presentation skills, and project management, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to communicate their findings effectively and pursue further academic or professional careers. The university's strong international network fosters a diverse and collaborative learning environment, with students coming from all over the world, enriching discussions with diverse perspectives.

Graduates of this programme will be experts in cardiovascular research methods and will possess the knowledge necessary to contribute to advancements in diagnosing, preventing, and treating cardiovascular diseases, which remain one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The Master’s programme in Cardiovascular Research at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is ideal for students passionate about understanding cardiovascular health and eager to contribute to innovative solutions for cardiovascular diseases in a dynamic, scientifically driven academic setting.

Admission requirements

Preferably a GPA of 3,5 (7,5 in the Dutch grading system) or higher. Preferably an A grade (8 in the Dutch grading system) for the bachelor thesis.

Other requirements

1. ingangstoets All students with a Bachelor's degree must take an exam on their basic knowledge of biology and physiology in order to join this research Master's programme. English language skills must meet VU University Amsterdam's standard requirements for Master's programmes
2. gemiddeld cijfer Preferably a GPA of 3,5 (7,5 in the Dutch grading system) or higher. Preferably an A grade (8 in the Dutch grading system) for the bachelor thesis.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Master's programme in Cardiovascular Research at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a comprehensive education that prepares students for a career in cardiovascular science and medicine. The financing of studies for this programme includes various options designed to support students financially throughout their education. Tuition fees are charged annually and vary depending on the student’s nationality; European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) students generally pay lower fees compared to non-EU/EEA students. The university provides detailed information about tuition fees on its official website, and students are encouraged to verify these amounts each academic year.

Students can finance their studies through several channels. The Dutch government offers loan schemes for Dutch and EU/EEA students, which are administered via DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs). These loans can cover tuition fees and cost of living, and are repayable after graduation. International students from outside the EU/EEA may have access to scholarships and grants, although these are limited and highly competitive. Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam also offers several scholarship programmes aimed at talented students, including the Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship (AES), which provides partial tuition fee waivers for outstanding applicants. Additionally, there are external funding opportunities such as Erasmus+ scholarships for exchange students and other international grants.

Students are advised to explore the possibility of employer sponsorships or loans offered by private financial institutions. Many students working part-time during their studies can contribute to their living expenses, and the university's location in Amsterdam provides access to a vibrant student job market. Some students may also qualify for specialized funding if they are enrolled in combined or inter-university programmes.

Financial planning for studies should include the cost of tuition, accommodation, health insurance, study materials, and personal expenses. The university provides detailed estimations of these costs to help students prepare budgets. It is also recommended to apply for funding early, as many scholarships and loan schemes have deadlines well in advance of the start of the academic year. For detailed, up-to-date information on financing and scholarships, applicants should consult the official Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam website and contact the university's admissions or financial aid office.

The Master's program in Cardiovascular Research at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is an interdisciplinary and comprehensive program designed to train students in the latest scientific techniques and knowledge related to cardiovascular health and disease. The program aims to prepare graduates for a career in biomedical research, clinical research, or related industries by providing them with a solid foundation in cardiovascular physiology, pathology, and innovative research methods. Students will learn about the mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, and heart failure, and explore novel strategies for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

The curriculum integrates coursework, practical laboratory training, and research projects to ensure a thorough understanding of cardiovascular biology. Students will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art technologies such as molecular biology, imaging techniques, and data analysis tools. The program emphasizes both fundamental research and translational approaches, fostering a mindset geared toward developing innovative solutions to major health problems related to cardiovascular health.

The program is conducted in close collaboration with hospitals and research institutes, allowing students to gain real-world experience and insights into clinical applications. Additionally, the interdisciplinary nature of the program encourages collaboration with specialists across various fields such as pharmacology, genetics, and bioinformatics. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue research careers in academia, industry, or healthcare institutions.

Admission requirements typically include a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Biomedical Sciences, Medicine, Biology, or a related discipline, along with proficiency in English. The program often includes coursework on cardiovascular physiology, pathology, molecular techniques, and biostatistics, alongside research projects and a thesis component. Overall, the Cardiovascular Research Master's program at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a rigorous and enriching educational experience, aimed at contributing to advancements in cardiovascular science and improving patient care worldwide.