Studying public health in the Netherlands puts you at the centre of modern health systems and research. Dutch universities offer English-taught degrees at both bachelor and master levels that focus on global health, prevention, and policy. This guide covers requirements, costs, and the steps to start your journey.
Degree levels and programmes
Public health education in the Netherlands is split into bachelor and master programmes. Bachelor degrees typically take three years and focus on foundational sciences, health systems, and social determinants of health. Master programmes usually take one or two years and allow you to specialise in areas like epidemiology, health economics, or international public health.
- Bachelor programmes: often titled Public Health, Global Health, or European Public Health.
- Master programmes: offer advanced tracks in research, policy, or management.
- Format: fully taught in English at research universities and universities of applied sciences.
Entry requirements
Requirements depend on the level you apply for, and you must check the university admissions page for exact criteria. For a bachelor programme, you generally need a secondary school diploma equivalent to the Dutch VWO system. For a master programme, you need a relevant undergraduate degree, sometimes with specific coursework in statistics or biology.
- Language proficiency: proof of English, usually through IELTS or TOEFL scores.
- Previous grades: strong academic transcripts in relevant subjects.
- Additional items: motivation letters, CVs, or entrance exams for selective programmes.
Tuition fees and costs
Tuition fees vary significantly depending on your nationality and the specific programme. Check the programme page for the exact fee for your intake year. Living costs in student cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Maastricht cover housing, food, transport, and insurance.
- EU/EEA students: typically pay statutory tuition fees set by the government.
- Non-EU students: pay institutional tuition fees, which are notably higher.
- Living expenses: budget for monthly costs including student accommodation and health insurance.
Timeline and application steps
The Dutch academic year starts in September, and the planning process begins almost a year in advance. You submit applications through Studielink, the central portal for higher education in the Netherlands. Keep track of deadlines set by each university.
- Autumn before entry: research programmes and check entry criteria.
- Winter: prepare language tests and gather academic documents.
- Spring: submit applications via Studielink and apply for housing or scholarships if eligible.
Common questions
Can I work while studying public health in the Netherlands?
Yes, EU students can work without hours limits, while non-EU students can work a limited number of hours per week or full-time during summer months, subject to having a valid residence permit and work permit.
Do I need to speak Dutch to study public health?
No, many bachelor and master programmes in public health are taught entirely in English. However, learning basic Dutch helps with daily life and clinical placements.
Where can I check official visa and immigration rules?
Check the IND, which is the national immigration authority in the Netherlands, for current visa procedures, financial proof requirements, and residence permit steps.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.