Switzerland: International Studies and Multilateral Diplomacy

Key Features

Geneva (program base)
The international environment of Geneva offers students a unique opportunity to interact with leading experts and academics at a wide variety of international organizations and research centers. Numerous institutional libraries, documentation centers, and think tanks offer excellent research material and information. This exceptional learning environment leads to original research and independent study opportunities.

Network with International Experts
Students have numerous occasions to meet leading experts working at international organizations, academic institutions, and research centers. Students typically engage with experts in the areas of multilateral diplomacy, conflict resolution, regional integration, development, the environment, complex emergencies, and security. Students develop their networks throughout their stay in Geneva to enhance their Independent Study Project design and research.

Intensive Instruction in French
Students have the opportunity to learn, or rapidly advance, their French through the program’s intensive language instruction, offered in small-group formats. Language instruction is offered at four levels based on in-country evaluation, including oral proficiency testing. Additionally, many students are able to practice their French with their homestay family and during excursions.

Independent Study Project (ISP)
Further academic and career goals through an original research project

Students spend four weeks near the end of the semester working on an Independent Study Project (ISP), pursing original research on a selected topic of interest to them. The ISP is conducted in Geneva where students interview leading experts in fields related to their research project.

The ISP provides students with practical experience for academic and professional development. It also allows students to create a solid professional network and form a concrete base for future academic and professional career choices.

Sample topic areas for the ISP include:

Roles of international agencies in developing countries
Peacebuilding and nation-building
New approaches to security
Human rights and international law
Migrations, refugees, and internally displaced persons
Protection of humanitarian spaces in conflict zones
Humanitarian aid in complex emergencies
Geopolitics of natural resources
Environmental diplomacy

Credits: 16

Duration: 15 weeks

Program Base: Geneva

Language Study: French

Prerequisites: Coursework in international studies, political science, or prelaw Read more...