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Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
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Drug Discovery and Safety - Diagnostics and Imaging Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

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Award Attendance Study Duration Start Domestic fees International fees
Master Degree On-Campus Full-time 2 years September €2694 per year €24150 per year

Course overview

Challenging and relevant for society

Sixty per cent of all diseases are still incurable. So there are plenty of opportunities to tackle complex challenges. If you are fascinated by the idea of developing new pharmacological therapies and medicines, then this is the Master's programme for you.

If you study Drug Discovery and Safety at VU Amsterdam, you will gain insight into drug discovery research from a unique chemical perspective. From the characterisation of molecular causes of pathology to the generation of new therapeutics to treat diseases, and from small molecules and proteins to complex diseases and medicines.


Entry requirements

The Drug Discovery and Safety programme is open to both Dutch and international students. The Faculty's Admission Board will decide upon your admission after having evaluated your complete online application.

In order to gain admission to the Drug Discovery and Safety Master's programme, you will need to have at least a Bachelor's degree from an accredited research university including at least three full years of academic study amounting to a minimum of 180 ECTS or equivalent. We do not require a GRE or GMAT test score. A Bachelor degree obtained at an applied university or higher vocational education (HBO in Dutch) in most cases does not grant direct access to the programme (only exceptionally high ranking students stand a chance of admission).

Specific requirements for the Drug Discovery and Safety Master's programme

You can gain direct admission to the Master's programme Drug Discovery and Safety with a Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Chemistry. If you hold a Bachelor's degree in a related subject like Biomedical Sciences*, it is possible that you will first be required to first bring your knowledge up to standard in a number of areas, depending on both the specialization in your Bachelor's and the Drug Discovery and Satefy specialization you apply for. The decision on how you should compensate for any gaps in your knowledge will be taken in consultation with the Master's coordinator of your specialisation.

Important: All prospective Drug Discovery and Safety students must have an intake interview to check eligibility for admission with the Master's coordinator. Without the approval of one of the Master's coordinators you cannot be admitted to the master programme. Apply for the master programme via Studlink and complete your application in VUnet. After we have received the requested documents, the admission board will decide whether you can be invited for the intake interview. Please note that you cannot have the intake interview, before your application is completed.

*Similar relevant programmes need to cover the required knowledge stated below for students to be eligible in the Master Drug Discovery and Safety.


Why study at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Studying with a green Conscience
VU Amsterdam champions sustainability and environmental responsibility with green buildings and parks on campus. Committed to climate change research and eco-friendly practices, we are at the forefront of promoting a greener future through innovative education and initiatives.

Be part of a diverse student community.
VU Amsterdam is known for its diverse and welcoming community, with students from over 120 countries. We create a supportive environment that fosters personal connections and collaborative learning, making it an ideal choice for international students seeking an inclusive academic experience.

An excellent history in education
Experience an affordable university in Amsterdam with nearly 150 years of excellence in science education and research. Join a vibrant community of international students and earn a prestigious degree in a rich academic environment. Choose us for a transformative educational journey!

Your gateway to Europe
VU Amsterdam is located in Amsterdam's thriving Zuidas business district, providing excellent access to Europe's cultural and professional opportunities. Studying here offers valuable internships and networking connections, placing you at the centre of a dynamic European landscape. Open doors to your future career with an education that connects you to the continent!


Related information

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