Executive Master - MAS in International Law in Armed Conflict

The Executive Master – Master of Advanced Studies in International Law in Armed Conflict is a 60 ECTS, part-time, fully online programme designed for professionals with demanding jobs and responsibilities.

It provides the legal and analytical tools needed to engage with contemporary conflicts, humanitarian emergencies, human rights negotiations and international criminal proceedings.

Delivered entirely online by our experienced faculty, the programme combines live interactive sessions, self-paced learning and continuous academic support. Participants benefit from access to our learning platform where they can attend live classes, interact with faculty and peers, access materials, submit assignments and track their progress.

After completing the exams, participants write a research paper under the supervision of a faculty member. The programme concludes with an in-person graduation ceremony in Geneva.

This programme is designed for professionals working in international and non-governmental organizations, governments, and other sectors where international law plays a key role — as well as for those seeking to transition into these areas.

Participants include diplomats, legal advisers, humanitarian workers, human rights advocates, military officers, journalists and policy professionals who wish to enhance their understanding of the legal frameworks governing conflict and transition.

By strengthening participants’ ability to interpret and apply the international legal framework in complex environments, the programme supports career advancement, new responsibilities and the possibility of exploring new professional paths.

The programme corresponds to 60 ECTS credits and is structured over four semesters. The three first semesters are dedicated to courses. The fourth semester is designed for the completion of the final research paper.

All courses take place online, Wednesdays to Fridays (12:00–14:00 CET) to accommodate participants working full-time. Recordings are available for those unable to attend live sessions due to professional commitments.

Programme structure

Semester 1 – Autumn

• Introduction to and Sources of Public International Law – 6 ECTS
• The Law of International Armed Conflicts – 6 ECTS
• Introduction to International Human Rights Law – 3 ECTS
• Methodological activities – 3 ECTS

Semester 2 – Spring

• International Refugee Law – 6 ECTS
• The Law of Non-International Armed Conflicts – 3 ECTS
• Sanctions in Public International Law: Selected Topics – 3 ECTS
• Atrocity Crimes – 6 ECTS

Semester 3 – Autumn

• Mechanisms for Accountability: Universal Jurisdiction – 3 ECTS
• Accountability for Atrocity Crimes: the ICC – 3 ECTS
• The Interplay between International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights – 3 ECTS
• The Implementation of International Human Rights Law – 3 ECTS
• The Rules Governing the Use of Force in International Law – 3 ECTS
• Methodological activities – 3 ECTS

Semester 4 – Spring

• Final Research Paper (6 ECTS)

Academic calendar

Autumn semester (Year 1): September to December
Winter (Year 1): January – Examination period
Spring semester (Year 1): February to June
Summer (Year 1): July to August – Examination period
Autumn semester (Year 2): September – December
Winter (Year 2): January –Examination period
Spring semester (Year 2): February to June – Examination period and Final Research Paper (submission in June)
Graduation: End of October

Duration: 2 years (part-time)
Credits: 60 ECTS
Language: English
Teaching format: Fully online (live and self-paced learning)
Schedule: Live sessions, Wednesday to Friday, 12:00 to 14:00 CET
Tuition fee: 18,000 Swiss francs

The fee covers all reading materials, access to the online platform, live sessions, exams and supervision of the final research paper. No discounts or scholarships for this programme are available, but payment in installments / payment plans can be arranged if required.

Graduation takes place in person in Geneva, offering participants the opportunity to connect directly with the Academy’s community and network. Online attendance is also possible.

Admission criteria

Admission is open to candidates holding a master’s degree, a bachelor’s degree, a bachelor’s degree from a university of applied sciences, or a qualification deemed equivalent as well as more than 3 years of relevant work experience in a field related to the programme. Each application is carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Applications are submitted online. Required documents:

• A cover letter (in English) explaining your interest in and potential contribution to the programme
• A curriculum vitae (in English)
• Proof of English proficiency via a recognized test (if not your native or working language)
• A colour copy of your passport
• Copies of relevant degrees and diplomas (with certified translations if not in English or French)

Applications Open in February 2026