Master in Start To Teach Dag

The tuition fee is 3,795 USD per year, and applications for the Sep 2026 intake close on Aug 31, 2026.

"Who we are is how we teach" serves as the guiding principle for the Start-to-teach day, an intensive development programme specifically designed for new academic staff at VU Amsterdam. This one-day initiative moves beyond abstract theory to ground professional development in the immediate, practical needs of instructors facing their first weeks in the lecture hall.

Reflective and Practical Development

Participants are encouraged to critically explore their professional identity as educators while considering the unique VU pedagogical culture. The programme bridges the gap between personal teaching philosophies and classroom realities through:

• Pedagogical reflection: Defining the responsibility of the student and identifying what constitutes an inspiring, inclusive learning environment.
• Practical classroom management: Mastering lesson preparation, relationship building with students, and selecting effective teaching formats.
• Critical incident handling: Navigating the ethical and practical dilemmas that arise when standing in front of a group.
• Inclusive practice: Targeted attention to the 'Mixed Classroom' methodology.

This programme is ideal for educators starting their journey at the university, providing a collaborative space to exchange experiences with peers. By the end of the day, participants leave with a strengthened sense of their pedagogical approach and concrete tactical tools to manage their early teaching experiences successfully.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a research-led university situated in the heart of Amsterdam, founded in 1880 and welcoming more than 31,700 students including a large international cohort. Its long history combines academic tradition with modern interdisciplinary teaching across social sciences, humanities, law, business, and sciences. English-taught bachelor and master programs make it accessible to international applicants seeking a high-quality European education in a dynamic urban setting.

The university emphasizes research excellence and societal impact, with numerous institutes and centers that connect students to real-world challenges. Small-group teaching, problem-based learning options, and close supervision at graduate level support academic growth. International students can take advantage of dedicated services for visa advice, housing support, language courses, and career guidance that ease transition and enhance employability in the Netherlands and beyond.

Student life blends campus facilities with Amsterdam cultural vitality, including museums, startups, and multinational companies that offer internships and networking. Affordable public transport and a bicycle-friendly environment make daily life straightforward while campus clubs and student associations help newcomers build a community. Prospective international students should research program entry requirements early, prepare application documents and funding plans, and reach out to the international office to plan arrival and accommodation.