Medicine, profile Sustainable Care

The Master's programme in Medicine with a profile in Sustainable Care at the University of Groningen is designed to prepare future healthcare professionals who are committed to addressing the global challenges of sustainable healthcare delivery. This interdisciplinary programme integrates medical sciences with insights from social sciences, economics, and environmental studies to develop a holistic understanding of healthcare systems within the context of sustainability. Students will explore topics such as the impact of healthcare practices on the environment, equitable access to medical services, health policy, and innovative approaches to improving patient care while minimizing ecological footprints. The curriculum emphasizes problem-based learning, critical thinking, and research skills, enabling students to devise strategies that promote sustainable health outcomes across diverse populations. Throughout the programme, students will engage with real-world case studies, collaborate with international experts, and participate in practical projects that foster innovative solutions to healthcare challenges. The programme also offers opportunities for specializations in areas like public health, health economics, environmental health, and healthcare management, allowing students to tailor their education according to their career aspirations. Graduates will be equipped to work in various sectors including healthcare policy, hospital administration, public health organizations, and research institutions, contributing to the development of sustainable healthcare practices worldwide. By integrating scientific knowledge with an awareness of societal and environmental factors, the MSc in Medicine with a profile in Sustainable Care prepares students to become leaders in transforming healthcare systems into more sustainable, equitable, and resilient entities.

The Bachelor's degree programme in Medicine, with a specialization in Sustainable Care, at the University of Groningen is designed to prepare future healthcare professionals to address the evolving needs of patients and society through a comprehensive and innovative approach. This programme emphasizes the importance of sustainable and patient-centered healthcare, combining rigorous scientific education with practical skills and ethical considerations to foster a holistic understanding of health and well-being. Throughout the curriculum, students are introduced to foundational medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pathology, which provide essential knowledge about the human body and disease processes. Alongside these fundamental sciences, the programme integrates modules on healthcare systems, health policy, and ethics to equip students with the insight needed to navigate complex medical environments responsibly and sustainably.

A key aspect of the Sustainable Care profile is the focus on innovative care delivery models that promote continuity of care, prevent disease, and enhance patient outcomes while considering economic, social, and environmental impacts. Students are encouraged to develop skills in teamwork, communication, and leadership, enabling them to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary healthcare teams. The programme also emphasizes the importance of digital health technologies, data analysis, and evidence-based practice, ensuring graduates are well-versed in modern medical tools and information management.

Throughout their studies, students engage in clinical placements, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare settings, fostering practical skills and professional judgment. These placements are carefully integrated, providing exposure to diverse care environments, from primary care clinics to hospital wards, and emphasizing the importance of sustainable and ethical healthcare practices. The curriculum promotes a patient-centered approach, respecting individual needs, preferences, and cultural backgrounds, while also advocating for health equity and accessible care solutions.

In addition to core medical training, the programme addresses current global health challenges such as aging populations, chronic diseases, and health disparities, encouraging students to think critically about innovative solutions that improve health outcomes sustainably. The multidisciplinary nature of the programme prepares students for future roles in healthcare policy, management, and research, positioning them as leaders in creating sustainable, equitable, and effective health systems. Graduates of this programme are equipped not only with medical expertise but also with a strong commitment to advancing sustainable healthcare practices that benefit society at large.

Admission requirements

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

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Informatie over vooropleidingseisen, buitenlandse diploma's en overige diploma's Commissie bijzondere toelating via email: admission@rug.nl 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
3. 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

The University of Groningen offers a comprehensive financing structure for students enrolled in the Medicine, profile Sustainable Care program. Tuition fees for this program are determined annually and vary depending on the student's nationality. For EU/EEA students, the tuition fee is typically set at approximately €2,209 per year, reflecting the university's commitment to accessible education within the European Union. Non-EU/EEA students are usually charged a higher fee, approximately €13,000 to €15,000 per year, which covers the specialized nature of the program and the international scope.

Students have various funding options to support their studies. Government grants and scholarships are available for Dutch and EU students, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. The Holland Scholarship, for instance, offers financial aid to talented students from outside the EU/EEA who wish to study in the Netherlands, providing a one-time grant of €5,000. Additionally, the university participates in the Erasmus+ Program, allowing students to apply for mobility grants if they participate in exchange programs or internships abroad.

Students are encouraged to explore various forms of financial support, including student loans offered through the Dutch government, which are accessible via the DUO platform. These loans are designed to cover subsistence costs and, in some cases, tuition fees for eligible students. The Dutch Student Finance system provides both loans and grants, with options for deferral or repayment after graduation, depending on the student's income.

Furthermore, students can seek private scholarships, foundations, and sponsorships targeted at medical students or those specializing in sustainable care and health sciences. The university offers a dedicated scholarship portal where students can find and apply for various funding opportunities suitable for their financial situation and academic interests.

In addition to external funding, the university encourages students to consider part-time work opportunities during their studies. The city of Groningen has a vibrant student community with numerous part-time jobs available in hospitality, retail, research assistance, and administrative roles. These jobs can help offset living expenses and provide valuable work experience.

Living costs in Groningen are manageable compared to larger Dutch cities, with estimates ranging from €800 to €1,200 per month, covering accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, and personal expenses. The university's student housing service assists students in securing affordable accommodation, which is an essential part of financial planning.

Overall, the University of Groningen offers a variety of financial resources, scholarships, and support programs aimed at making studying in the Medicine, profile Sustainable Care program accessible and affordable. Prospective students are advised to plan their finances early, explore all available funding options, and utilize the university's support services to ensure a smooth educational journey.

The Master's programme in Medicine, with the profile Sustainable Care at the University of Groningen, is designed to prepare students for a future in healthcare that emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and patient-centered care. This programme focuses on reducing environmental impact, improving the quality of healthcare services, and ensuring equitable access to medical care. Students in this programme gain a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness of healthcare delivery, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, encouraging innovative thinking and problem-solving in healthcare settings.

Students explore topics such as sustainable health systems, health policy and management, environmental health, and ethics in medicine. The programme also emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, understanding the social determinants of health, and developing leadership skills necessary for implementing sustainable practices in various healthcare environments. To facilitate this, the programme offers a blend of lectures, case studies, internships, and project-based learning, often in collaboration with healthcare institutions and related organizations.

The programme's unique approach aims to cultivate future healthcare professionals who are not only clinically competent but also socially and environmentally responsible. Graduates are equipped to contribute to policy development, healthcare management, community health projects, and sustainable medical research. The faculty is composed of experts in medicine, public health, environmental sciences, and social sciences, providing a multidisciplinary perspective.

Admission requirements typically include a relevant bachelor's degree, such as in medicine, health sciences, or a related field, along with proficiency in English. The programme may also consider motivation and relevant experience during the selection process. Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for careers in healthcare innovation, policy advisory roles, sustainable health project management, or further research.

The University of Groningen's strong reputation in healthcare and environmental research, combined with its international orientation, offers students a stimulating academic environment and numerous opportunities for international collaboration and internships. The programme aims to produce healthcare professionals capable of leading sustainable change in healthcare practice and policy, aligning medical advancements with environmental stewardship and social equity.