How would you describe the teaching method(s) used in your classes?
Classes in Geneva combine classical, straightforward ex cathedra courses and practical exercises in small groups. The teaching methods of course vary according to the personal styles of the different professors. Reading materials are generally available at the beginning of the term.
Can you describe your campus, its location, some of things you can do nearby?
The University of Geneva does not possess a campus in the traditional way; its buildings are spread out over the city. The main building for law students, Uni Mail, is a modern building located right by the city’s largest parks. Geneva is beautifully located by Lake Geneva and with the snow-capped Alps as a background. Geneva has many museums and international organizations and offers a great variety of sporting possibilities.
Can you describe an interesting course or seminar you took this past year – one that you might recommend to an HLS student?
I personally enjoyed very much the lectures by Robert Kolb on International Law, Law of the United Nations and Humanitarian Law, and the lectures on international criminal law by Nicolas Michel.
Also worth mentioning is the Art-Law Centre, and the courses taught by Professor Marc-André Renold.
Are you involved in a student organization that might interest an HLS student?
The most recommendable student organization for a student coming from abroad is certainly ELSA (European Law Students Association), which has sections at almost every European law school.
Are there any recent changes or new developments at your school?
Almost all lectures and courses at the University of Geneva are recorded digitally and can be downloaded/watched over the Internet at any time by the enrolled students.
Is there anything else that you think an HLS student should know?
Compared to American cities, Geneva is relatively small, which facilitates getting to know the city and its inhabitants, i.e. making friends. In spite of its size, Geneva is a very international city, thanks to it being the seat for many international organizations and NGOs, not least the United Nations.
Please click here to read more about spending a semester abroad in Geneva.
Photograph by Jennifer Huang (JD ’13).