The Master of Science in International Health (MScIH) at Heidelberg University, Germany, is a world-class postgraduate program focusing on poverty-related health challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Designed for health professionals and researchers, the program equips students with the expertise to plan, implement, and evaluate sustainable public health interventions in diverse global contexts.
Heidelberg University—Germany’s oldest university, founded in 1386—is consistently ranked among Europe’s top universities. With more than 30,000 students from 130+ countries, it provides a vibrant international academic environment, advanced research facilities, and global partnerships such as the tropEd network.
Degree Level
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Master’s Degree (MSc) – Postgraduate
Available Subjects
The MScIH focuses on:
- International & Global Health
- Poverty-related health problems
- Disease control & health promotion
- Health systems development
- Public health research in LMICs
Program Highlights
- Duration: 1 year (full-time) or up to 5 years (part-time)
- Curriculum: Short courses, advanced modules, electives, and thesis project (field research, data analysis, or systematic review)
- Global exposure: Opportunities to study abroad via the tropEd network
- Career outcomes: Roles in international organizations, NGOs, ministries of health, universities, and research institutes
Scholarship Opportunities for MScIH Students
Although Heidelberg University does not directly fund MScIH students, several external scholarships are available:
1. DAAD EPOS Scholarship
- Offered by: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
- For: Students from developing countries in development-related postgraduate fields
- Covers: Tuition fees, travel, monthly stipend, health insurance
- Deadline: 15 October 2025 (for September 2026 intake)
- Note: Must apply for MScIH and DAAD simultaneously
2. KAAD (Catholic Academic Exchange Service)
- For: Students from Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe
- Supports: Postgraduate study and research in Germany
- Focus: Academic excellence and commitment to development
3. Bread for the World (Brot für die Welt)
- For: Students linked to Protestant or Orthodox churches
- Provides: Study, research, and language training support
- Priority: Development and humanitarian fields
Eligible Nationalities
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Open to applicants from all countries
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (4 years / 240 ECTS or equivalent) in a health-related field (e.g., medicine, nursing, social sciences)
- Have at least 1 year of relevant work experience in public health (preferably in LMICs)
- Provide English proficiency proof (TOEFL iBT 92+, IELTS 6.5+, or equivalent)
- Submit 1 employer recommendation letter
- Show strong motivation to contribute to global health
Apply Also
- KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 in Saudi Arabia (Fully Funded Postdoctoral Research)
- UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded Master’s in UK)
Application Procedure
Step 1 – Choose Study Mode
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Full-time (1 year) or part-time (up to 5 years)
Step 2 – Prepare Required Documents
- Bachelor’s certificate & transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- CV & motivation letter
- Employer recommendation
Step 3 – Submit Application
- MScIH only: Apply online by 31 March 2026
- MScIH + DAAD EPOS: Apply by 15 October 2025
Step 4 – Selection Timeline
- DAAD applicants notified: March 2026
- Regular MScIH applicants notified: June 2026
Step 5 – Admission & Enrollment
- Pay €1,000 non-refundable admission fee upon acceptance
- Start program in September 2026 at Heidelberg University
Deadlines:
- DAAD EPOS Scholarship: 15 October 2025
- MScIH Only: 31 March 2026
