FAQs (LLM-MAS Programmes)

The Geneva Academy, a joint centre of the Law Faculty of the University of Geneva and the Geneva Graduate Institute, is globally recognized for its excellence in teaching, research, and policy engagement. Since 2007, it has attracted outstanding students from across the world to its Master of Advanced Studies programmes.

Located in the heart of Geneva – the world’s humanitarian and human rights capital – the Academy offers a unique opportunity to study and engage directly with international organizations, NGOs, governments, and leading experts. Its programmes immerse students in current debates on international humanitarian law, human rights, international criminal law, and transitional justice.

A Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) is an accredited postgraduate diploma awarded by a Swiss higher education institution. It is a postgraduate degree providing in-depth, specialized expertise.

Our MAS programmes (60 ECTS) combine academic rigour with practical application of international law. They provide comprehensive training in a highly specialized field directly relevant to students’ professional ambitions and career opportunities.

These degrees form part of Switzerland’s continuing education framework (see Article 5 of the Swiss Ordinance on Continuing Education) and differ from Level 7 EQF master’s degrees.

In Switzerland and most of continental Europe, there is no official postgraduate legal diploma known as an LLM. The official qualification is the Master of Advanced Studies (MAS), which certifies specialized postgraduate training following a full university degree. The term LLM (Legum Magister) is included in the title of our MAS programmes for international understanding, as they are equivalent in level and purpose to an LLM in Anglo-American systems.

Admission to our MAS programmes requires completion of a full cycle of legal studies (normally at least four and a half years in European systems) or an equivalent qualification in other jurisdictions that entitles the holder to sit the bar exam. The use of LLM in the title thus reflects the postgraduate, law-focused nature of the programme and ensures global recognition of its level and purpose.

The LLM–MAS in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights focuses on the rules governing armed conflict and the protection of persons affected by it.

The LLM–MAS in International Crimes, Justice and Human Rights concentrates on accountability for international crimes and serious violations of human rights and humanitarian law, in both transitional and non-transitional contexts.

Although the two programmes have distinct focuses, they share a common academic environment and community. Students from both cohorts take part in certain shared optional courses and activities, including the internship programme, professional skills training, and – upon selection – the Jean-Pictet Competition.

Note: The Academy also offers an Executive Master in International Law in Armed Conflict, a part-time programme intended for working professionals.

Graduates are awarded an LLM–Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights or in International Crimes, Justice and Human Rights (60 ECTS), jointly delivered by the Faculty of Law of the University of Geneva and the Geneva Graduate Institute.

ECTS stands for European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System. It is a standard of the European Higher Education Area that represents student workload and learning outcomes.

A 60 ECTS MAS programme requires approximately 1,500–1,800 hours of total work, including class time, independent study, tutorials, and internship.

No. Both LLM–MAS programmes are full-time, in-person degrees based in Geneva.

Candidates shall have:

• A full degree in law that allows them to sit the bar examination in their country of origin or residence
• A strong academic record
• Demonstrated interest in the subject areas of the programme
• Proven proficiency in English (minimum level C1)

Professional experience in a relevant field is an asset.

Candidates who do not hold a full degree in law may also be considered if they can demonstrate a strong and motivated interest in the themes of the chosen programme – for example through relevant professional experience, internships, or participation in summer schools or specialized trainings – and if they have completed university-level courses in international law or other relevant legal fields. Each application is carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Yes. You may apply during the final year of your studies, provided you obtain your diploma by June of the admission year at the latest. Admission in this case will be conditional upon completion of the degree.

At least one letter must be academic. The second may be professional.

All recommendation letters must be on official letterhead and signed by the author before submission.

Admission is highly competitive. Each year, we admit around 35-40 students per programme, creating a dynamic, diverse, and intellectually stimulating environment.

There is no single model for a strong application. All files are carefully reviewed and assessed on academic merit, professional experience, and motivation.

Deferrals may be granted in exceptional cases and only for the following academic year.

Previously unsuccessful candidates may reapply without disadvantage.

Yes. You must provide evidence of a C1 (advanced) level in English when submitting your application.

Yes, if:

• English is your mother tongue
• You completed a degree fully taught in English
• You have at least two years of academic or professional experience in an English-speaking environment

Proof of eligibility must be uploaded with your application.

We do not offer waivers for the admission fee. However, in cases of financial hardship, you may contact us to arrange payment in installments. If you choose to pay in installments, the full amount must be paid by mid-January of the academic year.

Yes. We offer a limited number of full scholarships (covering tuition fees and living expenses) and partial scholarships (covering tuition fees only).

Scholarships are awarded to outstanding candidates, based on merit and the specific criteria of our donors.

Yes. The application fee applies to all candidates, including those applying for scholarships.

Tuition fees are normally paid in full before the start of the academic year. When payment in installments is approved, the full amount must be paid by mid-January.

For students receiving a living-cost stipend, monthly payments begin at the start of the academic year and continue for ten months. Tuition fees are paid directly to the Geneva Academy.

No. Applicants must choose one track at the time of application.

The LLM–MAS programmes start in mid-September (preceded by an orientation week) and run until mid-September of the following year.

• Autumn semester: mid-September to mid-December
• Spring semester: mid-February to the end of June
• Exams: January (Autumn) and June (Spring), with retakes in July and August
• Master’s paper submission: mid-August
• Graduation ceremony: October

The Geneva Academy’s LLM–MAS programmes stand out for their integration of rigorous academic study and hands-on professional experience.

• Core courses build a solid grounding in international law and its specialized branches.
• Optional courses allow students to explore contemporary issues and tailor their studies to individual interests.
• The Spring Term focuses on professionalization through skills training, internships, and participation in the Jean-Pictet Competition (upon selection).
• Each programme includes a study trip offering direct exposure to field operations and institutions working in humanitarian and human rights protection.
• A dedicated career service provides one-to-one coaching and guidance.
• Internships with more than 80 partner institutions, including major international organizations and NGOs, ensure strong professional integration.

Our alumni work worldwide in humanitarian, human rights, and justice sectors – in Geneva, in the field, or within their home countries. They typically hold positions in law, advocacy, policy, or research within:

• International organizations such as the ICRC, OHCHR, UNHCR, IOM, or UNIDIR
• NGOs promoting and protecting humanitarian law, human rights, peace, and justice
• Civil society organizations
• Governments and ministries of foreign affairs
• International courts and institutions such as the ICC and the Council of Europe
• Academic and research institutions

The Geneva Academy does not offer PhD programmes.

In Switzerland, a MAS obtained without a prior master’s degree does not normally qualify for PhD admission, but requirements may vary by country. Students wishing to pursue doctoral studies are advised to verify eligibility with the relevant university or national authority.

While we cannot connect applicants directly with current students, testimonials from past and current participants are available on our website.

Geneva offers an exceptional quality of life and unparalleled professional opportunities.

As Europe’s humanitarian and diplomatic capital, it hosts the United Nations, the ICRC, the OHCHR, more than 250 NGOs, and 174 state missions.

The city is clean, safe, and multicultural, with over 180 nationalities. Students enjoy access to the University of Geneva’s sports and cultural facilities and to a vibrant scene of concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and lectures.

Students should plan for approximately:

• CHF 1,600–2,000 per month if living in student housing
• CHF 1,900–2,100 per month in private accommodation

Students with EU nationality may work up to 15 hours per week during term time and full-time during official holidays.

Non-EU students may work only after six months of residence in Switzerland, up to 15 hours per week (and full-time during holidays).

As the LLM–MAS is a full-time, intensive programme, we do not recommend extensive employment alongside studies.