ExMas Applications Open Banner

Apply to Our Online Executive Master - MAS in International Law in Armed Conflict

Applications are now open for our online Executive Master – Master of Advanced Studies in International Law in Armed Conflict. Candidates for the 2025–2027 programme are invited to apply by 30 May 2025.

In Brief

 

  • Master of Advanced Studies (60 ECTS)
  • Part-time programme over two years, entirely online
  • Focus on all rules applicable to armed conflicts, and their interrelation
  • Live online classes (12:00 to 14:00 CET) to promote discussions and interaction
  • All sessions are recorded and made available online
  • E-learning platform to facilitate learning and engagement
  • Small cohort of participants
  • Privileged access to world renowned professors, practitioners and experts
  • Knowledgeable teaching assistants to support participants in their learning

Who We Are

 

The Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, established in 2007 as a joint centre of the Faculty of Law of the University of Geneva and the Geneva Graduate Institute, has acquired a global reputation for excellent teaching and research, attracting exceptional students to its Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) programmes.

Exceptional Learning Environment

 

  • Small learning community with only 40 participants selected each year
  • Engaging discussions and exchanges between participants and faculty members

Moving Your Career Forward

 

Diplomats, lawyers, legal advisers, humanitarians, NGO staff, human rights advocates, media specialists, professionals working in emergency situations, UN staff and staff from other international organisations share expertise, discuss pressing concerns and reflect on the application of international law to their work. By providing the necessary tools to apply the international legal framework in complex contemporary conflicts, our programme equips high-level professionals with the relevant skills and knowledge to take on additional responsibilities or advance their careers.


Programme

 

This innovative and intellectually challenging part-time programme, offered entirely online, is designed for professionals with demanding jobs and responsibilities. The 60 ECTS Executive Master – Master of Advanced Studies in International Law in Armed Conflict provides the legal tools needed to address complex contemporary conflicts, humanitarian emergencies, human rights negotiations, and criminal proceedings, meeting the growing demand for specialists.

Through this programme, participants will gain access to world-renowned professors and leading experts in their fields. They will also benefit from direct connections with key actors in the field and have the opportunity to engage with fellow participants from an array of different legal backgrounds and perspectives.

Course Structure & Delivery

 

Courses are conducted online over nine months, with live sessions held at lunchtime (12:00-14:00 CET). If participants are unable to attend a session due to professional commitments (e.g., missions, travel, conferences), they can access the recorded lectures afterward.

A user-friendly online platform facilitates direct interaction with professors, fellow participants, and teaching assistants. It also provides access to course materials and readings, enables exam submissions, and allows participants to view their grades.

After completing the exams, participants must write a research paper under the guidance of a faculty member. The programme concludes with an official graduation ceremony held in person in Geneva. Alternatively, participants can attend the ceremony online and receive their diploma by post.

Learn more about the programme.

Admissions

 

Candidates who apply should have:

  • Work experience relevant to the programme
  • A bachelor’s degree
  • Proficiency in English

Tuition Fees

 

Tuition fees: CHF 18,000

Key Dates

 

Applications open: 3 February 2025

Online information session: 27 March 2025 at 12:30 CET. Register here

Applications close: 30 May 2025

Programme starts: September 2025

Programme ends: October 2027

How to Apply

 

You can apply on our website here. 


Documents required for application are:

  • A cover letter in English explaining your interest in and potential contribution to the programme
  • Your curriculum vitae in English
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • A colour copy of your passport

LEARN MORE

 

FAQ about the Executive Master – Master of Advanced Studies in International Law in Armed Conflict

If you would like more information about the programme, please do not hesitate to contact Ana Kilibarda at:

masters-inquiries@geneva-academy.ch

You can also join our online information session on 27 March 2025 at 12:30 CET:

Register here

MORE ON THIS THEMATIC AREA

ICRC Conference Booth News

Challenging Preconceptions About International Humanitarian Law

13 November 2024

At the 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, we hosted a booth with Geneva Call and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway.

Read more

IHL in Focus Spot Report News

New Report on Food Insecurity in Armed Conflict, Highlighting the Impact of Siege-like Tactics

21 October 2024

The Geneva Academy has published the first spot report from the 'IHL in Focus' research project, ‘Food Insecurity in Armed Conflict and the Use of Siege-like Tactics.’

Read more

Warzone Event

Advanced IHL Seminar for Academics and Policymakers

25-29 August 2025, 09:00-17:30

Co-hosted with the ICRC, this event aims to enhance the capacity of academics to teach and research international humanitarian law, while also equipping policymakers with an in-depth understanding of ongoing legal debates.

Read more

Yemen,  Sana'a, Faj Attan district. Destruction. Short Course

The Rules Governing the Use of Force in International Law

9-17 April 2025

This online short course provides an overview of the content and evolution of the rules governing the use of unilateral force in international law, including military intervention on humanitarian grounds and the fight against international terrorism. It focuses on the practice of states and international organizations.

Read more

Afghanistan, Parwan detention facility. Inside a room where detainees of the prison, separated by an acrylic glass, are allowed to meet with their families a couple of times per year with the help of the ICRC employees who facilitate the programme. Short Course

Preventing and Combating Terrorism

24 April - 13 May 2025

This online short course discusses the extent to which states may limit and/or derogate from their international human rights obligations in order to prevent and counter-terrorism and thus protect persons under their jurisdiction.

Read more

Computer screen with warning: civilian infrastucture: do not attack Project

The Digitalization of Armed Conflict

Started in September 2020

This project will explore humanitarian consequences and protection needs caused by the digitalization of armed conflicts and the extent to which these needs are addressed by international law, especially international humanitarian law.

Read more

Neutrotechology Project

Neurotechnology and Human Rights

Started in August 2023

This project addresses the human rights implications stemming from the development of neurotechnology for commercial, non-therapeutic ends, and is based on a partnership between the Geneva Academy, the Geneva University Neurocentre and the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee. 

Read more

Cover of the 2023 Geneva Academy Annual Report Publication

Annual Report 2023

published on July 2024

Read more

Cover of Report Publication

Artificial Intelligence And Related Technologies In Military Decision-Making On The Use Of Force In Armed Conflicts: Current Developments And Potential Implications

published on May 2024

Anna Rosalie Greipl, Neil Davison, Georgia Hinds

Read more