Our research and education
At Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management (ESHPM), we conduct high-quality research on today’s most pressing challenges in health and social care. Our research is grounded in disciplinary depth yet designed to address complex issues that require collaboration across fields, institutions, and borders.
In addition to our research, we offer university education that is closely connected to these research activities. Our bachelor’s and master’s programmes prepare students to engage critically, innovatively and socially in improving healthcare policy, organisation and quality. By integrating current research insights into our teaching, we encourage students to adopt a broad perspective on issues in healthcare and to contribute to sustainable solutions for the future.
Our research themes
ESHPM's research spans seven specialised sections, each with distinct disciplinary and methodological strengths. Together, we address both foundational and emerging questions in health policy and management. Building on this strong foundation, we have expanded our strategic focus to include in an investment agenda with three mission-driven themes that reflect the evolving societal and global landscape of health policy and healthcare management:
Investing in data-driven research
To accelerate our impact, we are enhancing our data capabilities. This includes expanding access to health data, improving research infrastructure, and supporting data-intensive projects across our themes.
A mission-oriented, interdisciplinary approach
Healthcare challenges today are complex and interconnected. That’s why we are moving toward a more thematic, mission-based organisation of our research. This direction—confirmed in our latest strategic planning—will guide our upcoming research assessments and shape how we define excellence.
Our strength lies in combining deep disciplinary expertise with interdisciplinary collaboration. ESHPM researchers work closely with policymakers, practitioners, and international partners to co-create knowledge that addresses real-world needs.
We are active participants in key academic networks such as Erasmus Initiatives, Convergence, and various academic workplaces, where we collaborate with external stakeholders to tackle major societal issues together.
Making an impact—academically and societally
ESHPM is committed to open, responsible science. We aim to increase the relevance and visibility of our research, both through scholarly excellence and through tangible contributions to society.
We have a strong track record in securing competitive research funding from national and international sources, both public and private. We view externally funded research as essential for expanding our impact, developing our people, and sustaining our school’s future.
Together with the Engagement & Research Services (ERS) team, we support our researchers in acquiring and managing grants—ensuring that our projects are academically rigorous, societally relevant, and ethically and financially sound.
