Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations
GSD have more than 700 graduates in its steadily growing alumni community. Among these are more than fifteen serving ambassadors to the United Nations and other countries. Among GSD’s honorary doctorates are seven Presidents/Prime Ministers, five Ministers, one Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and several other globally renowned figures
The legal status of GSD is a Société Anonyme incorporated under Swiss Law, authorised by the Department of Private Education of Geneva, and EduQua certified.
Geneva School of Diplomacy:
The Geneva School of Diplomacy & International Relations is a world-class premium institution specialising in the teaching of International Relations & Diplomacy. Through the close partnerships with the surrounding international organisations, missions and NGOs, interactive classes with highly distinguished faculty members and the many lectures hosted by high-profile guest speakers.
- Located in the heart of the most diplomatic neighborhood in the world
- Mandatory internships leading to promising career opportunities
- Personalised attention and support tailored to students’ needs
Geneva:
Study where your degree is in high demand! As the world’s most important and prestigious diplomatic hub, Geneva offers internships and career opportunities in the fields of international relations and diplomacy at a rate unmatched anywhere else in the world.
- 41 international organizations in the Lake Geneva Region (44 in total in Switzerland). (https://www.geneve-int.ch/facts-figures)
- Over 750 Non-governmental organizations (NGO)
- Over 32,000 international civil servants, diplomats and representatives of the civil society
- More than 4,700 annual visits of heads of state and government, ministers and other dignitaries
Career Opportunities:
Switzerland is a global hub for diplomacy, finance, and international organisations. With over 2,000 multinational organisations within its borders, Switzerland is an ideal environment for those aspiring to engage in global affairs.
Safety & Security
Switzerland’s reputation for political stability and neutrality enhances its appeal. This stability creates an environment conducive to learning and fosters a sense of security for residents and students alike.
International & Multilingual Environment
Switzerland’s multilingual environment, with German, French, Italian, and Romansh as official languages, provides a unique opportunity to learn new languages and discover new cultures. Although not an official language, English is widely spoken throughout the country.
42% of Geneva’s residents are foreign nationals. This diversity contributes to a rich and inclusive educational experience.
Why choose International Relations?
Switzerland is a global hub for diplomacy, finance, and international organisations. With over 2,000 multinational organisations within its borders, Switzerland is an ideal environment for those aspiring to engage in global affairs.
- Opens the door to pursue diverse career paths, including diplomacy, politics, international business, development, journalism, and more.
- Provides a deep understanding of global affairs
- Fosters cultural awareness, preparing individuals to navigate diverse and multicultural environments
- Develops essential critical thinking and analytical skills
- Increases the opportunity to build an extensive international network
Accreditations
Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations (BAIR) is a three year undergraduate programme providing students with an advanced understanding of international relations. The programme prepares them both practically and intellectually for further studies and a wide choice of career options. BAIR graduates have continued their education at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world, including Harvard, LSE, Tufts Fletcher School, Johns Hopkins, Sciences Po, GSD, or upon graduation have launched their careers with highly reputable international organisations.
Requirements
Students are required to have completed a recognised school leaving certificate, including but not limited to: the International Baccalaureate Programme, A-Levels, High School Diploma, French Baccalauréat, Swiss Maturité, Abitur, etc., to be able to apply for the Bachelor’s Programme. Due to the diversity of applicants, there are other international qualifications that we may accept as the equivalent of a university entry level. As the language of instruction is English, applicants need to submit proof of their language proficiency.
Tuition Fees
- BAIR degree (3 years) / CHF 28,900.- per year
- Application fee (non-refundable) / CHF 300.-
- Learning Resources and Administration fee/ CHF 1,200.- per year
- These fees do NOT include travel, living accommodation, meals, medical or health insurance and the study trip.
Financing your studies
If you are going to live and study in Switzerland, it is important to establish a realistic and sustainable financial plan for the entire period of studies. Obtaining a degree is also an investment in your personal development and future. The financial aspects, therefore, should not be the only factor to be considered when deciding to begin or continue your studies in Geneva.
Internships
It is mandatory for all GSD students to complete at least one internship during the course of their Bachelor studies. This is an ideal way for students to gain practical experience, expand their network, and apply theoretical knowledge to real world issues.
In order to assist students in their internships search, GSD has developed regular agreements with a network of organisations, benefiting from its Geneva location and the nearby presence of Embassies, diplomatic missions, governmental agencies, NGOs, multinational corporations, etc.
GSD’s-Master of International Relations (MIR) programme focuses on preparing individuals for a successful career within the public and private sectors, principally through its combined theoretical and practical approach. We offer a unique combination of conceptual international relations and diplomacy master level courses focused on theory and the development of essential diplomatic skills.
- International Relations
- International Law
- International Economics
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a Bachelor degree. Whilst we accept applications from all varieties of undergraduate majors, a prior degree in international relations, history, social sciences, etc., will be an ideal preparation to commence your MIR studies at GSD.
Tuition and Expenses
- MIR Master’s degree (1 – 1.5 years) CHF 34,900.-
- Application fee (non-refundable) CHF 300.-
- Learning Resources and Administration fee CHF 1,200.- per year
- These fees do NOT include travel, living accommodation, meals, medical or health insurance and the required study trip.
Financing your studies
If you are going to live and study in Switzerland, please keep in mind that Geneva is amongst the most expensive cities in the world. It is important to establish a realistic and sustainable financial plan for the entire period of studies. Of course, obtaining a degree is also an investment in your personal development and in your own future. The financial aspect, therefore, should not be the only factor when deciding to begin or continue your studies in Geneva.
Internships
It is mandatory for all GSD students to complete at least one internship during the course of their Bachelor studies. This is an ideal way for students to gain practical experience, expand their network, and apply theoretical knowledge to real world issues.
In order to assist students in their internships search, GSD has developed regular agreements with a network of organisations, benefiting from its Geneva location and the nearby presence of Embassies, diplomatic missions, governmental agencies, NGOs, multinational corporations, etc.
