Health and Society

Health and Society at Wageningen University and Research is an interdisciplinary Master's programme designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between health, society, and the environment. The programme aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and address global health challenges through a multidimensional perspective. Throughout the programme, students explore the social, cultural, economic, and political factors that influence health outcomes across different populations and communities. They examine issues such as health inequalities, infectious and chronic diseases, the impact of lifestyle and behavior, and the role of policy and governance in health promotion. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and encourages students to develop innovative strategies for improving public health and well-being on local, national, and international levels.

The programme combines theoretical insights with practical experiences, offering opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and collaborations with health organizations and policymakers. Students learn to employ qualitative and quantitative research methods, analyze health data, and evaluate intervention programs. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, with specialization options available in areas such as Global Health, Health Policy, and Social Sciences. The academic staff are experts in public health, sociology, medicine, and related disciplines, providing mentorship and guidance throughout the educational journey. Graduates of Health and Society are well-prepared for careers in healthcare organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, research institutes, and consultancy firms, where they can contribute to developing healthier societies through evidence-based approaches and policy development. With its focus on societal impact and sustainable health solutions, this programme aims to develop future leaders who are capable of fostering positive change in health systems worldwide.

The Bachelor’s program in Health and Society at Wageningen University and Research offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education focusing on the complex relationship between health, society, and environment. This program is designed to prepare students to critically analyze health issues within various social contexts and develop sustainable strategies to improve public health. The curriculum combines fundamental coursework in health sciences, social sciences, and environmental sciences, enabling students to understand the multifaceted nature of health determinants and outcomes.

Throughout the program, students will explore topics such as health behavior, health promotion, healthcare systems, social inequality, and the impact of environmental factors on health. They will learn to apply scientific research methods to evaluate health interventions and policies, fostering evidence-based decision-making skills. The program emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary perspective, encouraging students to think critically about how social, economic, cultural, and environmental factors influence health and wellbeing.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the program offers practical experience through project work, internships, and collaborations with health organizations and policymakers. These opportunities allow students to gain firsthand insights into real-world health challenges and develop practical solutions. The program also promotes skills such as communication, teamwork, and intercultural competence, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse settings.

Graduates of the Bachelor’s in Health and Society are equipped to pursue further studies or enter careers in public health, health policy, health communication, community development, and related fields. They will be well-prepared to contribute to the development of healthier societies and to address contemporary health issues with innovative and sustainable approaches. With its focus on societal impact and interdisciplinary learning, this program offers an excellent foundation for students passionate about making a difference in public health and societal wellbeing.

Admission requirements

Grade Point Average of at least 70%; good skills in mathematics and/or statistics; basic computer skills.

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Grade Point Average of at least 70%; good skills in mathematics and/or statistics; basic computer skills.
2. taaltoets cijfer Applicants must provide recent evidence of their spoken and written command of English.
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BSc in landscape architecture, geography, rural planning, landscape planning or related fields.

Financing for the Bachelor's degree programme in Health and Society at Wageningen University and Research is primarily based on Dutch government funding, which is designed to support international students as well as domestic students. As a standard programme within the Dutch higher education system, it benefits from the Dutch student finance system, which offers a variety of options depending on the student's nationality and residency status. EU/EEA students are generally eligible for the same funding opportunities as Dutch students, including student loans and grants, whereas non-EEA students may be expected to finance their studies through personal resources or scholarships. Wageningen University offers a limited number of scholarships and grants for international students to support their studies financially, including the Wageningen University & Research Excellence Scholarship, which is awarded based on academic merit.

International students are advised to explore external scholarship options relevant to their home country or international organizations. The tuition fees for the programme vary depending on the student's nationality; Dutch and EU/EEA students pay lower tuition fees compared to non-EU/EEA students. The university also provides guidance on financial planning, including budget estimates for living expenses, books, insurance, and other miscellaneous costs. Students are encouraged to seek information about student housing, which can be a significant expense, and to plan their finances accordingly.

In addition to government funding and scholarships, many students finance their studies through part-time work within the Netherlands, where flexible work regulations allow students to work a limited number of hours per week. Wageningen University has partnerships and career services that facilitate student employment opportunities, helping students to gain work experience and offset educational costs. Some students may also receive financial support from home governments or international agencies, especially if participating in exchange programs or funded projects.

Overall, the financial structure of the Health and Society programme combines Dutch government funding schemes, institutional scholarships, external funding options, and personal resources, allowing students to tailor their financing plans to their individual circumstances. Prospective students are encouraged to start early with financial planning and consult the university’s admissions office or financial aid office for the most accurate and up-to-date information about tuition fees, available scholarships, and funding opportunities.

Health and Society at Wageningen University and Research is a multidisciplinary programme that explores the complex interactions between health, societal factors, and environmental influences. This Bachelor's degree provides students with a thorough understanding of how social, cultural, economic, and policy-related aspects impact health outcomes at individual and community levels. The programme emphasizes a scientific approach, integrating knowledge from social sciences, public health, and environmental studies to develop comprehensive insights into health issues faced globally and locally.

Students enrolled in this programme will engage in coursework covering topics such as health behaviour change, social determinants of health, healthcare systems, epidemiology, and public health policy. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, research skills, and practical applications through project-based learning and internships. This approach prepares graduates to work effectively in diverse settings, including health promotion agencies, policy development, research institutions, and international organizations.

Wageningen University’s unique positioning as an institution that focuses on sustainable development and societal impact enhances the programme's interdisciplinary nature. Students learn to assess health challenges within broader societal contexts, considering factors like environmental sustainability, food security, and equity. The programme encourages international perspectives, with opportunities for exchange and collaboration with partners worldwide, thus broadening students’ understanding of global health issues.

Graduates of the programme are equipped to analyze complex health problems and design interventions that are socially acceptable, culturally sensitive, and scientifically sound. They gain skills in communication, teamwork, and policy analysis, which are essential for effective health advocacy and leadership. The programme also emphasizes lifelong learning, ethical considerations, and the importance of evidence-based decision making, preparing students for the dynamic and evolving field of health and society.

Overall, Health and Society at Wageningen University aims to develop knowledgeable, socially responsible professionals capable of contributing to healthier societies by addressing challenges through an integrated, multidisciplinary lens. The programme’s combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience ensures that graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to public health and societal well-being in diverse contexts worldwide.