Global Health

Overview

During the research master in Global Health from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, students from all over the world embark on an intensive study of cross-cutting aspects of health problems and health systems. 

Students obtain the latest insights on specific topics, such as infectious diseases, NCDs, maternal health and mental health in Master classes and learn about inter- and transdisciplinary approaches and a wide range of qualitative and quantitative research methods in courses. 

Special attention is given to developing students' ability to critically assess research designs and research proposals. They are taught how to design, implement and ‘measure’ interventions that address complex health challenges, and to analyse and compare different health systems. 

Global health is defined as the broad field of study, research and practice geared towards improving health and achieving equity in health. Though often used interchangeably, global health differs from the fields of public health and international health as is summarized in the table below. If you are the type of person who wishes to look beyond national boundaries and disciplinary distinctions then the field of global health and our unique master’s program may be a good fit for you.

Why Global Health?

The increasing complexity of global health issues has resulted from the following four relatively recent developments:

• Globalization: Diseases ‘globalize’ through the increased mobility of people and goods at a rapid pace around the world.

• Socio-economic Developments: Socio-economic developments that arise at national level often (if not always) have an impact on the rest of the world and are important for many aspects of 'health'.

• Rise of Global Governance: Increasingly, organizations like the United Nations (UN) set global targets that aim to highlight and tackle global problems to provide universal realization of human rights across the globe.

• Emerging Infectious Diseases: New and emerging infectious diseases (e.g. Zika, Ebola or zoonosis, such as SARS) require collaborative research and innovation of the world leading research institutes and considerable financial investments.

Promotion alumni sessions Master’s day

During the Master’s day, you can also meet our (international) alumni during several workshops. In these sessions they will tell you more about career opportunities after finishing your Master’s degree.