Master in Trainees In Onderwijs

Tuition comes to 3,795 USD per year. The application deadline for the Sep 2026 intake is Aug 31, 2026.

How can we bridge the gap between academic research and the evolving demands of the secondary education sector? The 'Trainees in Onderwijs' programme is an intensive two-year pathway designed for high-achieving university graduates and PhD holders who seek to transition into teaching while remaining active as change-makers. Instead of a purely theoretical approach, this programme embeds you directly into a secondary school environment from your first day, allowing you to earn a market-competitive salary while simultaneously working toward your first-degree teaching qualification.

This initiative is far more than a standard teacher training course. It offers a unique dual-track experience: you complete your regular pedagogical training at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam while engaging in an additional, enrichment-focused curriculum centered on leadership, entrepreneurship, and educational research. The programme is built for those who find the status quo insufficient and wish to actively shape the future of the classroom.

A Catalyst for Educational Transformation

• Direct Application: You are placed in a partner school immediately, balancing classroom responsibilities with academic rigor.
• Bespoke Development: Beyond the standard curriculum, you receive intensive coaching, mentorship from experienced educators, and opportunities to collaborate with a network of fellow trainees and social organizations.
• Professional Agency: The programme specifically encourages trainees to apply their academic background to address systemic challenges, fostering a new generation of teachers who act as entrepreneurs within the educational landscape.

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.