You can create your own Master鈥檚 programme of 120 European Credits (EC). The components of the programme can be followed in any given order.
Cardiovascular focus
Major research project, theoretical courses, and writing assignment are focused on the cardiovascular research field. The profile and elective component can be used to either further specialise yourself as a cardiovascular expert, or to broaden your horizon within the Life Sciences field.
All credits mentioned under more information are in EC (European Credits), where 1.5 EC is equivalent with 40 hours of work.
You will spend ten weeks completing compulsory theoretical courses.
Electives enable you to increase your knowledge within your field of interest or (in part) to address educational deficiencies.
Students in the CVH&D programme are required to complete a major research project. They have the opportunity to work on diverse projects, ranging from lab-based studies to clinical research, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge cardiovascular science. Here are some examples from the previous years:
Investigating genes that control heart rhythm Using zebrafish as a model, CRISPR/Cas9 knockouts of selected genes were created to study their effects on heart rate and rhythm, providing insights into genetic factors that may contribute to arrhythmic disorders.
Developing new tools to study platelet function A small antibody (sdAb) was engineered, targeting the platelet receptor GPVI. To explore its potential as new and more reliable diagnostic tool for platelet function disorders, the antibody was tested in lab assays to assess how it activates platelets.
Modeling heart failure using stem cells A lab model of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) was developed using stem cell-derived heart and blood vessel cells from the same donor. The project explored cellular mechanisms behind heart stiffness and impaired function, laying the groundwork for future therapeutic research.
Monitoring cerebrovascular anatomy MRI scans from over 1,000 human subjects were analysed to study anatomical differences in the circle of Willis, a key network of brain arteries. The project investigated how sex-specific differences in artery size and structure could affect the risk of cerebrovascular disease.
Profiles take up a big part of your 2nd year and can be viewed as the minor in your Master鈥檚. They are designed to equip you with skills for your next step while studying. You select 1 out of 8 profiles, all with an own theme and focus. You can choose profiles that provide you with a broad skill set and help you prepare for a business, educational or societal career, or profiles that provide you with in-depth research skills, catering for a research career. The options include:
During the course of the Master鈥檚 programme, you are required to attend the week, at least seven , and three workshops of the .
This writing assignment may consist of either a clear and thorough overview of recent literature, concluded by an in-depth discussion, or a PhD grant proposal.
Courses
The course part of this programme consists of the following courses.
(online course)
(BITT Project)
(online course)
(online course)
Educational methods
Internships (research projects and profiles)
Coursework
Writing assignment
Seminars
Examinations
In general research projects are assessed using the following criteria:
