Medicine, profile Global Health

The MSc in Medicine, with a specialization in Global Health, at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding health challenges on a global scale. This program is designed for students who are passionate about addressing health disparities, improving healthcare systems, and promoting sustainable health initiatives worldwide. Throughout the course, students will explore the complex interactions between biological, social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes across different populations and regions.

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, allowing students to critically analyze health issues such as infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health policy, and healthcare delivery systems. Emphasis is placed on the development of research competencies and the application of evidence-based strategies to solve real-world health problems. Students will engage in case studies, internships, and collaborative projects with international organizations, gaining valuable insights into global health governance and policy formulation.

The program is delivered by experienced faculty members who are experts in fields ranging from epidemiology and public health to health economics and policy analysis. The multidisciplinary approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped to work in diverse settings, including NGOs, international health agencies, governmental organizations, and research institutions. The university’s strong connections with global health networks provide students with ample opportunities for international exchange, fieldwork, and professional networking.

Graduates of this program will possess a deep understanding of the social determinants of health, health inequities, and strategies for improving health outcomes in different contexts. They will be prepared to contribute to global health initiatives, conduct impactful research, and influence health policies. The MSc in Medicine – Global Health from the University of Groningen aims to foster future leaders committed to creating a healthier world by addressing the root causes of health issues and advocating for equitable health solutions across the globe.

The Bachelor's programme in Medicine with a specialization in Global Health at the University of Groningen provides students with a comprehensive understanding of health issues from a global perspective. This innovative programme combines foundational medical sciences with disciplines such as public health, epidemiology, health policy, and social sciences, aiming to prepare future healthcare professionals who are equipped to address complex health challenges worldwide. Throughout the course, students explore the determinants of health and disease, focusing on vulnerable populations and disadvantaged communities across different regions. The curriculum emphasizes intercultural competence, social responsibility, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring graduates can operate effectively in diverse settings.

Students will acquire critical skills in disease prevention, health promotion, health systems analysis, and policy development. Practical training is integrated through clinical rotations, fieldwork, and international projects, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. The programme encourages research literacy, enabling students to contribute to innovative health solutions and evidence-based practices. Ethical considerations, cultural sensitivity, and patient-centered care are core themes reinforced throughout the education. Furthermore, the programme promotes active engagement with global health organizations and NGOs, fostering networks and partnerships that enhance learning and career prospects.

By the end of the programme, students will possess a solid foundation in medicine complemented by a specialized understanding of global health issues, preparing them for diverse careers in international health organizations, governmental agencies, research institutes, and healthcare providers. The programme also offers opportunities for international mobility, including exchange programmes with partner universities worldwide. With a combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and an international outlook, the Bachelor’s in Medicine - Global Health at the University of Groningen aims to develop competent, compassionate, and globally-minded healthcare professionals dedicated to improving health outcomes worldwide.

Admission requirements

Admission will include a decentralized selection procedure (not a ballot). For information about the decentralized selection please check the following site: http://www.rug.nl/umcg/education/medicine/decentrale-selectie-geneeskunde Information about requirements and deficiencies: http://www.rug.nl/umcg/education/medicine/selection_-admission-requirements-and-deficiencies

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Admission will include a decentralized selection procedure (not a ballot). For information about the decentralized selection please check the following site: http://www.rug.nl/umcg/education/medicine/decentrale-selectie-geneeskunde Information about requirements and deficiencies: http://www.rug.nl/umcg/education/medicine/selection_-admission-requirements-and-deficiencies
2. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) For international students to be eligible to the program you must have attained the necessary qualifications for admittance into a Bachelor's in Medicine program in your own country; your secondary education must be comparable to Dutch VWO diploma and include qualifications in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics + English. For more information send an e-mail to admission@rug.nl

The University of Groningen offers a comprehensive financing options for students enrolled in the Medicine, profile Global Health program. International students are encouraged to explore various funding opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and student loans. The university provides several scholarships specifically aimed at international students, such as the Holland Scholarship and faculty-specific awards, which help offset tuition fees and living expenses. Additionally, students from the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) countries may benefit from the Dutch government’s student loan system, which offers favorable repayment conditions and relatively low interest rates compared to private loans. Non-EU/EEA students are usually expected to finance their studies through private means or national loan schemes from their home countries, although some university-specific scholarships may be available.

The tuition fees for international students vary depending on the student’s country of origin and specific program details, but typically range from approximately €10,000 to €20,000 per year for non-EU/EEA students. The university also provides information on additional costs such as health insurance, accommodation, study materials, and daily expenses. To assist students in planning their finances, the university recommends early application for scholarships and advises students to consider part-time employment options within the limits of their student visas.

The Groningen Learning & Development Fund and other external scholarship opportunities can further support students financially. Students are also advised to explore funding options available through their home countries, including government scholarships, bilateral agreements, and private foundations. The university maintains an active financial aid office to guide students through application procedures, eligibility criteria, and deadlines. Overall, students are encouraged to undertake thorough financial planning well in advance of the start of their studies to ensure they can meet all costs associated with their education and living expenses during their time at the university.

The Master's degree in Global Health at the University of Groningen is a multidisciplinary program designed to prepare students to address complex health issues on a global scale. This programme emphasizes understanding the socio-economic, political, environmental, and cultural factors that influence health outcomes worldwide. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including infectious diseases, health systems, health policy, epidemiology, and health promotion, with an applied approach that encourages critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills. The curriculum integrates theory and practice, often involving case studies, internships, and collaborative projects with international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and research institutions.

The program is tailored for students interested in pursuing careers in international health organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, or academic research. It aims to develop competencies in assessing health risks, designing interventions, and evaluating health programs. The degree also emphasizes research methodology, data analysis, and the use of evidence-based practices to improve health outcomes across populations. The multicultural and interdisciplinary environment at the University of Groningen offers students unique opportunities to learn from experts worldwide and to integrate diverse perspectives into their approach to global health challenges.

Throughout the programme, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and engaging lectures, seminars, and workshops led by renowned faculty members. The University of Groningen’s strong international orientation allows students to participate in exchange programmes and internships abroad, gaining valuable experience in various health contexts globally. The programme starts with foundational courses covering global health fundamentals, progressing to more specialized topics like health economics, health policy analysis, and sustainable health development. Students are required to complete a master's thesis based on empirical research or a policy analysis project, which contributes to the current body of knowledge in global health.

Graduates of the Master's in Global Health at the University of Groningen are equipped to work effectively in complex international health environments and contribute to solving pressing health issues through innovative, evidence-based solutions. The program’s interdisciplinary approach combines public health, medicine, social sciences, and policy analysis, ensuring graduates have a comprehensive understanding of the many factors affecting health around the world. This holistic framework prepares students to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global health landscape and make meaningful contributions to improving health equity and sustainable development worldwide.