Medicine & Health Sciences in Netherlands
The Netherlands offers 13 Medicine & Health Sciences programmes at 10 universities, spanning research-focused institutions such as Erasmus University Rotterdam and Wageningen University & Research to applied universities including HAN University of Applied Sciences, Hogeschool van Amsterdam, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, and Wittenborg University. This diversity means the listing covers everything from biomedical research to nursing, health management, and applied health sciences.
Tuition fees are not uniformly published for this listing, and prospective students should verify costs with each institution individually. The Netherlands has a world-class healthcare system and a strong biomedical research tradition, particularly through Erasmus Medical Centre — one of Europe's largest academic medical centres. Most health sciences programmes at Dutch universities are available in English at the postgraduate level.
Applied Gerontology
Fontys University of Applied Sciences offers an Undergraduate program in Applied Gerontology. This program trains full-time and part-time students in gerontology and its practical application. Students learn to develop and implement products and services aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults. The educational approach emphasizes learning through practice. A significant part of the program involves working on authentic projects for real organizations within the local community. One ongoing project focuses on researching loneliness among older adults, involving a network of community organizations that collaborate closely with the university.
Bachelor of Physiotherapy
If you believe movement is crucial for well-being and enjoy working with diverse individuals, this Bachelor of Physiotherapy program could be for you. It aims to equip you with the skills to motivate others towards regular exercise, promoting long-term health and participation in work, sports, and society. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application from the very first year, allowing you to immediately put what you learn into practice. The program emphasizes a holistic approach, developing your understanding of biomedical science, kinesiology, and behavioral science. You'll hone your problem-solving abilities and foster a commitment to continuous self-development, preparing you for a career dedicated to improving clients' health. The international environment, with students from many nationalities, offers a global perspective on the profession and develops your ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
European Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (part-time)
The European Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (OT-EuroMaster) is an international, part-time, research-oriented program designed for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science. Delivered across five European universities in five countries, this program fosters critical thinking and research skills within a multicultural learning environment. Graduates are prepared to contribute to inclusion, health, and sustainability in individuals' and communities' daily lives.
HAN University of Applied Sciences
HAN University of Applied Sciences is a dynamic institution focused on practical, hands-on learning. We are committed to changing the way students approach movement, care, and work through innovative and applied education. Our goal is to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in a rapidly evolving world. Discover a learning environment that encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving.
Master Midwifery
The Master of Science in Midwifery (MSc) is a practice-oriented master's program designed for midwives. It aims to deepen your professional knowledge, provide you with tools, and develop skills to take a leading role in the field. The program focuses on competencies in research, innovation, and collaboration, strengthening your position as a midwife in the Netherlands. It is dedicated to maintaining the high quality of the Dutch midwifery system and ensuring integrated birth care.
Master Zorgethiek en Beleid
MBM (MSc) in Health & Social Care
The Master of Business and Management (MBM) with a specialisation in Health & Social Care is designed for individuals aiming to lead and innovate within the critical health and social care sectors. This programme combines comprehensive business management principles with specific insights into healthcare and social service environments, preparing you to tackle current challenges like regulatory changes, service delivery improvements, and technological integration. Delivered in English, the course fosters a diverse learning environment, reflecting global health and social care issues. You will explore strategic management, policy analysis, healthcare economics, and leadership in social care, alongside practical training in ethical decision-making. The curriculum enhances your strategic thinking, problem-solving, and complex organisational management skills through lectures, case studies, and project-based learning. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles influencing policy, improving service delivery, and leading organisations in public, private, and non-profit sectors. This specialisation is ideal for those with a background in health, social care, or public administration who wish to advance their managerial and strategic expertise.
Physiotherapy
The Fontys Bachelor in Physiotherapy is a four-year, full-time program designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to help people move without pain. You will learn about all aspects of physiotherapy, from diagnosing and treating injuries to preventing future issues, while developing crucial decision-making and solution-oriented skills. The program emphasizes a balanced approach to learning, combining practical, hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge. You will work with real patients from day one, guided by field professionals, and gain experience with the latest techniques, making you feel well-prepared for the professional field.
Shared Leadership in Elderly Care
This program focuses on shared leadership within elderly care, bringing together nurses and their managers. It addresses the significant societal challenges facing the sector, such as an aging population, increasing care demands, labor market changes, and pressure on affordability. The current models of care are no longer sufficient, necessitating change and a new approach to leadership. This program aims to cultivate dynamic healthcare professionals and managers who can collaborate effectively, driven by vision, courage, and mutual support. Participants will work on a real change initiative within their own organization, supported by their management and a self-assembled team. This experiential learning approach allows for immediate application of leadership skills in practice, fostering growth through shared experiences and knowledge exchange. Intervision, shadowing days, and mentorship are integral components of the learning process.
Tax Law (Fiscaal Recht)
This Bachelor's program in Tax Law provides a specialized path within the broader Law degree. You will develop expertise in the complex and socially relevant field of tax law, which intersects with law, economics, and politics. The program focuses on understanding how tax systems function, critically evaluating fiscal legislation, and applying theoretical knowledge to practical cases and current tax issues. You will acquire the analytical and legal skills necessary to become a future tax specialist.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to study Medicine & Health Sciences in the Netherlands?
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Tuition varies by programme — check each institution directly. EU students typically pay the statutory Dutch tuition fee, while non-EU international students pay a higher institutional fee.
Which universities offer Medicine & Health Sciences programmes in the Netherlands?
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The 13 programmes span 10 institutions including Erasmus University Rotterdam, Wageningen University & Research, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Hogeschool van Amsterdam, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, and Wittenborg University.
Can international students apply to Medicine & Health Sciences programmes in the Netherlands?
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Yes. Dutch universities accept international students, and many health sciences master's programmes are taught in English. A residence permit and health insurance are required for stays longer than 90 days.
What are typical entry requirements for Medicine & Health Sciences in the Netherlands?
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Requirements vary widely by programme — biomedical research programmes typically require a relevant science bachelor's degree; applied health programmes may accept a wider range of backgrounds. English proficiency is standard.
How do I apply to study Medicine & Health Sciences in the Netherlands?
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Apply through each university's online portal; Studielink handles bachelor's admissions. Master's programme deadlines vary — many close between January and April for September entry. Check each institution for specifics.