The Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights offers two specialized one-year LLM–Master of Advanced Studies programmes. 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, while 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.
Jointly established by the Law Faculty of the University of Geneva and the Geneva Graduate Institute, these programmes combine rigorous legal education, individualized supervision, and hands-on professional experience. Located in the world’s humanitarian and human rights capital, the Geneva Academy provides direct access to leading international organizations, the Human Rights Council, human rights treaty bodies, UN mechanisms of independent investigations and NGOs.
Each year, a diverse group of students from all regions of the world joins our academic community to acquire the knowledge, skills, and field experience needed to advance justice and the protection of human dignity.
The Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights – a joint centre of the University of Geneva and the Geneva Graduate Institute – is globally recognized for its excellence in teaching, research and policy engagement. Since 2007, and building on the legacy of its predecessor, the Centre universitaire de droit international humanitaire (CUDIH) established in 2002, it has trained a vibrant community of alumni who now hold key positions in international organizations, NGOs, governments and academia.
Each year, around 35–40 students from all over the world join each of our programmes, bringing a diversity of perspectives that enriches the classroom experience. Small class sizes ensure close interaction with professors and practitioners.
Our programmes combine academic depth with practical experience. Students engage with leading scholars and practitioners who bring both intellectual rigour and field-based insight to the classroom. Core courses provide a solid foundation in advanced public international law, international humanitarian law, human rights law, international criminal law, refugee law and transitional justice, while optional courses explore selected contemporary challenges – from digital technologies and children in armed conflict to weapons law and reparation to victims of reparations to victims in transitional justice.
Students benefit from:
- A personalized and professionalizing learning experience combining academic rigour with real-world engagement
- Small-group tutorials to revise course material, consolidate knowledge and prepare for demanding courses
- Moots that simulate real decision-making environments
- A study trip that deepens understanding of humanitarian and human rights work through direct exposure to field operations and practitioners
- Individualized career advice and mentoring, including tailored internship placements
- Direct exposure to leading international institutions, mechanisms and NGOs in Geneva
- Access to exclusive events, expert talks and study visits with practitioners and policymakers
- Membership in a global alumni network that continues to support professional development long after graduation
Studying in Geneva means living and learning in the world’s humanitarian and human rights capital. The city hosts the United Nations, the ICRC, the OHCHR, the IOM, numerous UN investigative and fact-finding mechanisms and a great number of international and local NGOs engaged in the protection of human dignity and accountability for serious violations.
This unparalleled environment enables students to connect directly with the institutions and professionals shaping international law and policy. The Geneva Academy maintains close collaborations with these actors, regularly welcoming guest speakers and organizing visits, workshops and joint events that bridge academic learning and professional experience.
Internships constitute the main professionalizing activity of the MAS and provide students with direct exposure to the work of international organizations, UN agencies, NGOs, and other institutions in the fields of international humanitarian law and human rights. Each year, the Geneva Academy collaborates with around 80 partner institutions in Geneva and beyond, many of which regularly host MAS students for internships. These placements allow students to gain practical experience, engage with current legal and policy challenges, and build valuable professional networks.
Alongside the Internship Programme, students benefit from a broader set of professionalizing activities designed to strengthen their skills and inform their career choices. These include presentations by practitioners, thematic briefings, career workshops, and visits to Geneva-based institutions. Together, these activities complement the academic curriculum and help students understand the expectations of potential employers.
Our Coordinator of Professionalizing Activities oversees both the Internship Programme and the wider portfolio of professionalizing activities. The coordinator provides individualised guidance to students, supporting them in identifying relevant opportunities, preparing applications, and clarifying their professional objectives. This personalised assistance ensures that each student receives targeted support throughout their professional journey.
Graduates of our programmes pursue diverse and impactful careers in international organizations, United Nations agencies, the International Committee of the Red Cross, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and national administrations. Many also continue their studies at the doctoral level or take up research positions in universities and think tanks.
Our alumni work in roles such as legal advisers, human rights officers, protection officers, researchers, diplomats, programme managers, and analysts—reflecting the strong professional relevance and reputation of our degrees in Geneva and beyond.
Students receive individualized career support from our Coordinator of Professionalizing Activities, who assists them in defining their professional objectives, preparing applications, and navigating internship and job opportunities with international organizations, NGOs, and academic institutions. This tailored guidance complements the experience acquired through internships and helps students confidently enter competitive professional environments.
By combining rigorous academic training with hands-on professional support, our programmes equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to build meaningful careers in the fields of international humanitarian law and human rights.
Our alumni work for:
- ICRC, OHCHR, UNHCR, IOM, UNIDIR and UN mechanisms investigating human rights and humanitarian law violations
- International and hybrid courts and tribunals, including the ICC and regional human rights bodies
- NGOs and civil-society organizations advocating for human rights, peace and justice
- Governmental and diplomatic services
- Universities and research centres
With over two decades of alumni, the Geneva Academy offers an active and supportive global network that facilitates mentoring, collaboration and professional growth.
The Geneva Academy welcomes highly motivated candidates from all regions and backgrounds.
Applicants must hold a degree in law or equivalent title and demonstrate strong academic potential and commitment to humanitarian and human rights work. Our admissions team provides guidance throughout the process and offers personalized advice to help candidates prepare strong applications.
A limited number of scholarships is available each year, awarded on the basis of academic merit and financial need. Scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both.
If you have questions about our programmes, please check our Frequently Asked Questions or contact masters-inquiries@geneva-academy.ch
I dreamt of working as an IHL lawyer within a specialized NGO, and I know that thanks to studying at the Geneva Academy, I will be able to put the knowledge I have gained into practice.
Student of the LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights.