Interdisciplinary Research in Health Dynamics (Research)
Health is more than just the absence of disease. It is shaped by body, mind, lifestyle—and the world around us. It is not a fixed state of complete well-being, but an ongoing ability to adapt, self-manage, and maintain or regain balance in the face of life's challenges.
Why do some people recover quickly from illness while others struggle? How can societies support healthier lives for everyone, at every age? And how do science, technology, and policy influence our health, functioning and well-being? In the Research Master Interdisciplinary Research in Health Dynamics (IRHD), you'll dive into these questions and many more.
Our programme invites you to:
- Explore health from multiple disciplines – from biomedical to psychosocial sciences
- Work side-by-side with experts – receive personal guidance from leading researchers
- Get hands-on experience – apply what you learn in real research projects
Shape your own journey– choose one of two tracks:
- Mechanisms of Lifecourse Health: discover how individual health develops, changes, and recovers throughout life, and how we can improve functioning and well-being.
- Strategies for Population Health: learn how population health is shaped by environmental and health system factors, and how to reduce inequalities for a healthier society.
MAKE SURE TO VISIT https://www.rug.nl/(...)n/apply-bsc/language for all the necessary information about required language tests and minimum scores.
You are admissible with a bachelors degree in Bio(medical) Sciences, Biology, Demographical Sciences, Econometrics, Economics, Health Sciences, Human Movement Sciences, Life Sciences, Pedagogy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Psychology, Social Sciences, Sociology. If you have another yest similardegree background the selection committee will determine whether your background meets the admission requirements.
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation letter
- One academic letter of reference
- Assessment interview
- The entrance examination will be a test of your statistical knowledge.
Job prospects
Job market
About 40% of our students remain in academia after graduation, while and 60% pursue careers in the public sector or in industry. Through the Career Perspective workshops offered during the programme, you'll be introduced to a wide range of possible opportunities to help you navigate your professional future.
Potential careers
After completing IRHD, you will be able to become a(n):
PhD Researcher
Continue your academic journey with a PhD in fields such as public health, epidemiology, psychology, or movement sciences.
Workplace options: UMCG, other universities, international research institutes.
Public Health Analyst
Use data to uncover health trends and advise on prevention strategies.
Workplace options: RIVM, GGD, WHO, health insurers.
Applied scientist
Provide scientific knowledge to coaches and professionals in practical contexts.
Workplace options: rehabilitation centers, (para)medical centers, occupational health services, sports clubs and associations.
Policy Advisor
Translate research into actionable policy, for example to promote healthier cities, increase sports participation, or prevent chronic diseases.
Workplace options: ministries, municipalities, municipal health services.
Epidemiologist (Registered Epidemiologist A-level)
Design and conduct epidemiological research to support disease surveillance, evaluate health interventions, and inform evidence-based policy.
Workplace: hospitals, public health institutes, governmental organisations.
Lecturer
Teacher foundational health-related topics and research methodology in higher education.
Workplace: universities, universities of applied sciences.
Data Scientist
Apply advanced statistical and computational techniques to large datasets and health registries.
Workplace options: academic labs, tech-health startups, consultancy firms.
Strategic Advisor
Help organisations design and evaluate health programs, for example digital health tools, lifestyle interventions, assistive technologies or integrated care models.
Workplace: UMCG, health insurers, tech companies, NGOs.
