Global Health (Research Master)

The Master's Programme in Global Health (Research Master) at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for a career in addressing complex health issues that affect populations worldwide. This program offers an in-depth understanding of the social, economic, political, and environmental determinants of health and the widespread inequalities that exist across different regions. Students will explore innovative approaches to global health challenges, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems strengthening, and health policy development. The curriculum combines rigorous research methodologies, critical analysis, and practical skills, enabling students to conduct impactful research and contribute to evidence-based policy making. Throughout the program, students will have opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research projects, collaborate with international organizations, and participate in internships that provide real-world experience. Emphasizing a multidisciplinary perspective, the program encourages dialogue between public health, social sciences, medicine, and policy studies. Graduates of this research master are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, international organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, and private sector entities involved in global health initiatives. The program aims to foster analytical thinking, cultural awareness, and a commitment to health equity, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to improving health outcomes worldwide. With its location in Amsterdam and its network of global partnerships, the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam provides an enriching environment for students passionate about making a tangible difference in global health.

The MSc in Global Health (Research Master) at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an in-depth interdisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing complex health challenges that affect populations worldwide. This program provides students with a comprehensive education in the principles of global health, combining insights from medicine, public health, social sciences, and policy studies to develop a well-rounded perspective on health issues across different cultural and socio-economic contexts. Throughout the curriculum, students learn to critically analyze health systems, disease patterns, and health determinants on a global scale, equipping them with the skills necessary to design, implement, and evaluate effective health interventions.

The program emphasizes rigorous research training, allowing students to acquire advanced methodological skills in qualitative and quantitative research techniques. They will engage in independent research projects, often collaborating on international teams, to contribute to the evidence base for global health policies and practices. Courses cover key topics such as infectious diseases, health inequalities, health systems strengthening, epidemiology, health policy analysis, and the social determinants of health. Additionally, students explore emerging issues such as climate change impacts on health, migration, and health innovation in low-resource settings.

A strong focus is placed on practical experience, with opportunities for internships and collaborations with global health organizations, NGOs, and research institutes. The program prepares graduates for careers in international health organizations, research institutes, policy advisors, and non-governmental organizations, or for further academic pursuits such as a PhD. Graduates will be capable of conducting independent research, critically assessing health data, and developing strategies to improve health outcomes at local, national, and international levels.

The Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam's research-active environment and international faculty create a stimulating academic setting that encourages analytical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and cross-cultural communication. With a curriculum that integrates theory and practice, students are equipped to become future leaders in global health, contributing to policy development, health promotion, and disease prevention worldwide. The program's flexible structure allows students to tailor their learning experience according to their specific interests within the broad field of global health, ensuring a personalized and highly relevant educational journey.

Admission requirements

a GPA of 3.5 or higher (7.5 in the Dutch grading system)

Other requirements

1. aanvullend vak basic knowledge of epimiology
2. intake gesprek
3. ingangstoets web-based entry exam
4. gemiddeld cijfer a GPA of 3.5 or higher (7.5 in the Dutch grading system)
5. gemiddeld cijfer a GPA of 3.5 or higher (7.5 in the Dutch grading system)
6. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) basic knowledge of epimiology
7. taaltoets cijfer Sufficient knowledge of English (a score of 580 of the TOEFL test or equivalent).
8. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) A Bachelor's degree in one of the base disciplines of Global Health (e.g., Medical Biology, Health Sciences, Medical Anthropology, Medicine, Health-Economics, Health Management, Pharmacy, Medical Natural Sciences) with basic knowledge of epidemiology.
9. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) A Bachelor's degree in one of the base disciplines of Global Health (e.g., Medical Biology, Health Sciences, Medical Anthropology, Medicine, Health-Economics, Health Management, Pharmacy, Medical Natural Sciences) with basic knowledge of epidemiology.
10. schriftelijk verzoek a motivation letter with CV
11. schriftelijk verzoek a motivation letter with CV

The tuition fees for the Global Health (Research Master) program at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam vary depending on the student's nationality. For Dutch and EU/EEA students, the estimated tuition fee is approximately €2,200 per year, reflecting the standard rate for master's programs at VU Amsterdam. Non-EU/EEA students are subject to higher tuition fees, which are approximately €15,300 per year. These fees are indicative and may be subject to change annually; therefore, prospective students are advised to consult the official VU Amsterdam website for the most current information.

Funding opportunities for students enrolled in the Global Health (Research Master) program include a range of scholarships, grants, and fellowships aimed at supporting international and domestic students. The university offers scholarships such as the VU Fellowship Programme (VUFP), which provides financial support to talented students from different backgrounds, including options specific to students from developing countries or those pursuing health-related research. Additionally, students may seek external funding from government agencies, international health organizations, or private foundations dedicated to global health research and education.

Students are also encouraged to explore scholarships provided by their home countries, as many countries offer government-funded scholarships for students studying abroad in fields related to health and research. The availability of part-time work opportunities during the academic year can also help students finance their studies, though this depends on visa regulations and individual circumstances.

International students residing outside the Netherlands often need to account for additional expenses, such as travel costs, accommodation, health insurance, and living expenses, which should be considered when planning their financial budget. The university provides comprehensive information about financial planning and available funding options through its financial aid office and official website.

In summary, financing a master's program in Global Health at VU Amsterdam involves awareness of tuition fees for both Dutch/EU and non-EU students, application for scholarships and grants, potential part-time employment, and careful budgeting for living expenses. The university actively supports students in identifying financing options to facilitate access to high-quality education in global health.

The Research Master in Global Health at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed for students who aim to address health challenges on a global scale through rigorous scientific research. This program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines insights from public health, epidemiology, social sciences, and environmental sciences to equip students with the necessary skills to analyze complex health issues worldwide. Students engage in advanced coursework that covers epidemiological methods, health policy analysis, health economics, and social determinants of health, preparing them to conduct impactful research in diverse settings.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop a critical understanding of the global health landscape, including issues related to infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health inequalities, and health systems strengthening. The research focus of the program allows students to design, implement, and evaluate research projects addressing real-world health problems, often in collaboration with international partners. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations, cultural sensitivity, and policy relevance in health research.

Students benefit from the university’s strong partnerships with international organizations, NGOs, and research institutes, providing opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and joint research initiatives. The program is suitable for recent graduates from life sciences, social sciences, or health sciences backgrounds, as well as professionals seeking to deepen their research expertise in global health issues. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutes, governmental agencies, or international organizations dedicated to improving health outcomes worldwide. The Master's in Global Health (Research Master) is structured to foster analytical thinking, methodological rigor, and an understanding of the multidisciplinary nature of global health challenges, ultimately aiming to prepare students for leadership roles in global health research and policy development.