The Executive Master – Master of Advanced Studies (60 ECTS) in International Law in Armed Conflict is a fully online programme that allows professionals to advance their expertise or reorient their careers while continuing to work.
Developed jointly by the University of Geneva and the Geneva Graduate Institute, this part-time programme provides advanced academic training and practical tools to address complex contemporary challenges in armed conflicts, humanitarian crises and transitional contexts.
It offers a prestigious and flexible learning experience that brings together academic excellence, professional relevance and global reach.
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 an advanced 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 Executive Master 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 Executive Master corresponds to 60 ECTS credits and is structured over three semesters of coursework followed by a fourth semester dedicated to the final research paper. All courses take place online during lunchtime (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
Public International Law (12 ECTS)
- Introduction to and Sources of Public International Law – 6 ECTS
- Sanctions in Public International Law: Selected Topics – 3 ECTS
- The Rules Governing the Use of Force in International Law – 3 ECTS
International Humanitarian Law (6 ECTS)
- The Law of International Armed Conflicts – 3 ECTS
- The Law of Non-International Armed Conflicts – 3 ECTS
Semester 2 – Spring
International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights (6 ECTS)
- The Interplay between International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights – 3 ECTS
- Introduction to International Human Rights Law – 3 ECTS
International Refugee Law and Implementation of Human Rights (6 ECTS)
- International Refugee Law – 3 ECTS
- The Implementation of International Human Rights Law – 3 ECTS
Semester 3 – Autumn
International Criminal Law (12 ECTS)
- Atrocity Crimes – 6 ECTS
- Mechanisms for Accountability: Universal Jurisdiction – 3 ECTS
- Accountability for Atrocity Crimes: The International Criminal Court – 3 ECTS
Methodology and Tutorials (6 ECTS)
- Writing the Executive Master Paper – 3 ECTS
- Methodology Sessions – 3 ECTS
Semester 4 – Spring
Final Research Paper (6 ECTS)
- Six months to research, write and submit the paper under faculty supervision
Academic calendar
Spring semester (Year 2)
final research paper (submission in June)
Autumn semester (Year 1)
early September – December
Spring semester (Year 1)
February – June
Autumn semester (Year 2)
September – December
Duration: 2 years (part-time)
Credits: 60 ECTS
Language: English
Teaching format: Fully online (live and self-paced learning)
Schedule: Live sessions from 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 paper.
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.
Applications are submitted online. Required documents:
- A letter of motivation (in English) explaining your interest in and potential contribution to the programme
- A curriculum vitae (in English)
- Proof of English proficiency (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 January 2026
If you have questions about our programmes, please contact masters-inquiries@geneva-academy.ch
This programme offered a unique combination of academic excellence and practical relevance that aligned perfectly with the challenges I face in my daily work.
Founder and Director of the Syrian Center for Legal Affairs and Arbitration