Global Health

The Master’s in Global Health at Maastricht University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing complex health challenges worldwide. This programme is designed to prepare students for effective roles in policy development, research, and practice within global health contexts. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, students explore a wide array of topics including infectious and non-communicable diseases, health systems strengthening, social determinants of health, health equity, and the impacts of globalization on health. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis, intercultural competence, and evidence-based decision-making, providing students with the tools needed to develop innovative solutions for health issues in diverse settings.

The programme adopts an international and collaborative perspective, encouraging students to engage with real-world case studies and fieldwork opportunities. Faculty members are renowned experts in global health who facilitate an environment of inquiry and practical learning. Students are also encouraged to participate in policy debates, research projects, and internships that enhance their understanding of the multifaceted nature of global health problems. The programme’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that graduates are equipped not only with medical or epidemiological expertise but also with skills in economics, sociology, and political science, enabling a holistic understanding of health challenges worldwide.

Graduates of the programme are prepared to work in international organizations, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, or pursue further research and academic careers. The MSc in Global Health at Maastricht University is committed to fostering a new generation of health professionals dedicated to improving health outcomes and reducing disparities across the globe. Students benefit from Maastricht’s innovative problem-based learning methods, their diverse student body, and the university’s strong international network, all of which contribute to a rich, global learning environment.

The Master's in Global Health at Maastricht University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex health issues on a global scale. The program focuses on understanding the social, economic, political, and environmental determinants of health and disease, emphasizing the importance of an integrated approach to global health challenges. Students will explore topics such as infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems strengthening, health policy, and global health governance. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, including case studies, internships, and collaborative projects with international partners. Emphasizing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, the program prepares graduates to work effectively in diverse settings such as international organizations, NGOs, governments, and research institutions. The program also highlights the importance of cultural competence, ethical considerations, and sustainability in developing effective health interventions worldwide. Students will have the opportunity to specialize in areas aligned with their career goals and interests, such as health promotion, epidemiology, or health policy analysis. Maastricht University's strong international network and focus on evidence-based practice ensure students gain real-world experience and establish professional connections. Graduates of the Master's in Global Health will be well-equipped to contribute to the achievement of health equity and the advancement of global health initiatives, making a meaningful difference in communities around the world.

Admission requirements

Admissions: 1. a bachelor's degree issued by a university in a relevant domain 2. a bachelor's degree issued by a University of Applied Sciences in a relevant domain. For these students additional requirements may apply.

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Admissions: 1. a bachelor's degree issued by a university in a relevant domain 2. a bachelor's degree issued by a University of Applied Sciences in a relevant domain. For these students additional requirements may apply.
2. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Admissions: 1. a bachelor's degree issued by a university in a relevant domain 2. a bachelor's degree issued by a University of Applied Sciences in a relevant domain. For these students additional requirements may apply.

The financing of the Global Health master's program at Maastricht University primarily involves a combination of government grants, scholarships, student loans, and personal funding. For EU students, the Netherlands provides various financial support options, including loans from the Dutch government under the Studiefinanciering system, which can cover tuition fees and living expenses. Non-EU students are generally expected to finance their studies through private means, although some scholarship opportunities may be available. Maastricht University offers several scholarship programs for outstanding international students, such as the Maastricht University Scholarships, which are merit-based and may cover partial tuition fees. Additionally, prospective students can seek funding from their home country’s scholarship programs or from international organizations that support students studying in the Netherlands. Loan options are also accessible through private financial institutions, with terms varying based on the borrower’s nationality and creditworthiness. The total cost of the program includes tuition fees, which differ for EU and non-EU students, as well as living expenses in Maastricht, which can range from €10,000 to €15,000 per year. Students are advised to develop comprehensive financial plans that incorporate all these sources of funding. Maastricht University’s financial aid office provides guidance and assistance in identifying suitable funding avenues and preparing applications. International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities such as Erasmus+ and other bilateral exchange programs that may partially fund their study period. The university’s commitment to diverse student support underscores the importance of securing adequate financial resources to successfully complete the Global Health program.

The Global Health master’s programme at Maastricht University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding health issues from a global perspective. This programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of complex health challenges faced worldwide, emphasizing the social, economic, political, and cultural contexts that influence health outcomes. The curriculum combines theory and practice, equipping students with the skills to analyze global health problems and develop effective, sustainable solutions.

Students enrolled in this programme will explore a wide range of topics, including infectious diseases, health systems, health inequalities, environmental health, and global health governance. Emphasis is placed on the interconnectedness of health determinants across different regions and populations. The programme encourages critical thinking and the development of research skills, enabling students to carry out independent investigations and contribute to scholarly debates in the field.

The program is highly international, attracting students from diverse backgrounds and countries, fostering a rich learning environment where different perspectives and experiences are valued. Courses are delivered through a combination of lectures, interactive sessions, and group projects, often involving collaborations with international organizations and experts in the field. Practical experience is emphasized through internships, case studies, and fieldwork, providing students with insights into real-world health issues and solutions.

Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors such as international health organizations, NGOs, research institutes, and government agencies. They may work as policy advisors, researchers, health program managers, or advocates for health equity and sustainability. The University’s strong alumni network and international partnerships further support students’ professional development.

The teaching staff includes experienced academics and practitioners from around the world committed to advancing global health initiatives. The programme typically includes a research component, where students undertake a thesis project on a relevant topic, often in collaboration with external organizations. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, with options for specialization in areas such as health policy, epidemiology, or health systems management, depending on student interests.

In summary, the Global Health master’s at Maastricht University is a rigorous, international programme that prepares students to address the pressing health challenges of our time with a multidisciplinary and culturally sensitive approach. It aims to foster globally aware health professionals who are capable of making impactful contributions to improving health outcomes across the globe.