University of Geneva (Faculty of Law)

The Faculty of Law at the University of Geneva is a leading institution known for its strong focus on practice-based legal education. It integrates oral and written training, legal reasoning, and exposure to real-world cases from early study years. Positioned at the crossroads of Swiss, European, and international law, it benefits from Geneva’s proximity to global organizations, offering students a uniquely international environment.

With 2,036 students and 243 faculty and staff, the school provides a robust academic ecosystem supported by specialized centers in key legal fields. Its bilingual opportunities and international collaborations create a dynamic, globally connected learning community.

The Faculty of Law maintains strong ties with legal practitioners, international organizations, and leading law firms, ensuring a clear bridge from study to employment. Students benefit from exposure to professionals from institutions such as the WTO and various tribunals, enhancing their readiness for international legal careers. Internships embedded in master’s programs strengthen practical skills and employability.

Graduates pursue careers in academia, private practice, NGOs, and global institutions, supported by an active alumni network and ongoing events. The faculty’s research centers also provide opportunities to engage in applied projects that build both expertise and professional visibility.

Students choose the Faculty of Law for its unique combination of international exposure, practical training, and academic excellence. Geneva’s status as a diplomatic hub offers unparalleled access to global institutions, creating natural pathways into internships, research opportunities, and career networks rarely matched elsewhere.

The faculty’s programs blend rigorous theory with real‑world application, taught by expert practitioners and scholars. With diverse study options, bilingual pathways, and strong institutional partnerships, students gain a competitive advantage for careers in international law, human rights, and related sectors.

The faculty drives innovation through its eight specialized research centers dedicated to areas such as digital law, environmental governance, humanitarian law, and financial regulation. These centers foster interdisciplinary collaboration and produce influential research that shapes policy and legal practice internationally.

Initiatives like digital‑law projects, technological monitoring platforms, and partnerships with global institutions strengthen the school’s commitment to forward‑looking legal education. Students contribute to impactful research, benefiting from access to experts, advanced methodologies, and resources that support innovative thinking and real‑world solutions.

What languages are programs taught in? Most programs are in French, while select tracks and summer schools are offered in English, ensuring accessibility for international students.

How are research and internships supported? Students have access to specialized centers, faculty mentoring, and opportunities to replace coursework with internships in Switzerland or abroad, supported by Geneva’s institutional landscape.

Are campuses accessible? Uni Mail, Villa Moynier, and Maison de la Paix are fully accessible and equipped with libraries, study spaces, and student‑oriented services.

Admission requirements vary by program. Bachelor’s applicants must demonstrate secondary‑level qualifications and strong French proficiency, while master’s and MAS applicants typically submit academic records, a CV, and motivation documents. English‑taught programs may require TOEFL or IELTS results. Doctoral candidates must provide a detailed research proposal and supervisor approval.

Tuition follows Swiss public university standards, typically CHF 500–1,000 per semester. Housing support is available through the university’s student accommodation office. Applicants apply online through the UNIGE portal and are encouraged to plan early for visas, housing, and registration timelines.