Studying in Geneva
Geneva's academic institutions benefit from being on the doorstep of many international organisations and world-class research agencies. Here is an insight into some of the best local universities and the benefits of enrolling in one of them.
Université de Genève
There is only one public university in Geneva: the Université de Genève (University of Geneva). It is the second-largest university in Switzerland and has over 17,000 students from nearly 150 different nationalities enrolled in courses every year.
The University of Geneva (UNIGE) offers over 500 programmes - including over 130 Bachelor's and Master's degrees and 87 doctoral programmes - in a wide variety of fields, such as exact sciences to law and humanities
It is globally recognised as one of the top scientific research universities in the world, specifically for life sciences, elementary particle physics and astrophysics. It is listed as one of the top institutions in the League of European Research Universities.
Students also benefit from the university's strong links to the many national and international organisations based in the city.
Applications to study at UNIGE are done online and cost CHF65. In general, you must complete an online registration form, providing grade certificates, a CV and a motivation letter, before the deadline, which usually falls at the end of April.
The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies
The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID) also benefits from strong links to Geneva's international environment.
Taking advantage of its campus location, just meters away from the UN Geneva building, the institute of research offers Master's and PhD programs in international relations and development issues, as well as current and emerging global challenges,
Even though it is not officially recognised as a university, people of all ages and backgrounds study at the Graduate Institute, from recent graduates to former military personnel and business executives looking to expand and deepen their knowledge of global affairs.
To apply, you need to complete the online application form which is available from mid-September, pay the CHF100 - 200 application fee, provide contact details for two academic referees and supporting documents before the deadline.
Geneva Academy Of International Humanitarian Law And Human Rights
Established by the UNIGE'S Faculty of Law and IHEID in 2007, the Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights offers post-graduate education focusing on international law, specifically around conflict, violence and the protection of human rights.
It also publishes research papers, and hosts talks and events, including the annual Current Issues in Armed Conflict Conference, co-organised with the Human Rights Centre at the University of Essex, where experts and academics discuss issues around armed conflicts from the year.
Potential students just need to fill in an online application form, providing supporting documents including a CV, a personal statement, academic transcripts and two letters of recommendation, before the February deadline (January if applying for a scholarship).
Webster University
Webster University - a private, non-profit, American university - set up its first international campus in Geneva in 1978. Today, Webster University Geneva offers Bachelor's degrees and Master's programs in English to around 500 students representing 90 nationalities each year. It is located just outside of the city in Bellevue.
To apply, you should submit an online application form with relevant supporting documents - including education transcripts, a 300-400 word motivation essay and letters of recommendation by the relevant deadlines for the term you wish to enter - Spring, Summer or Fall.
