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Master of International Relations (MIR)

Overview

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.

Programme Aim

• To prepare and develop graduates for a career in departments of government, politics, international relations, international affairs, journalism and business.
• To develop students’ intellectual capabilities of analysis and interpretation, critical evaluation, selection and synthesis, reasoned argument, research and problem solving.
• To provide students with an interactive teaching environment which also gives them an appropriate research grounding in the study of international relations, including its political, social, and economic aspects.
• To ensure that students acquire a solid understanding of methodologies to study international policies, procedures, and processes.
• To ensure that students acquire a solid knowledge of theories of international relations, the heritage and development of the discipline, its major debates, its inherent nature as an interdisciplinary study, and a critical appreciation of the essentially contested nature of politics in general and international relations in particular.
• To ensure that students acquire an advanced understanding of the relationship between theoretical, methodological, and empirical content of the topics studied.
• To develop students’ personal, analytical, communication and diplomatic skills.

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.
• Application Documents:
  • Colour copy of passport photo page
  • A current CV
  • A motivation letter (550 words approximately)
  • Current transcripts (and Bachelor diploma, if already obtained)
  • 2 letters of recommendation, in addition to the above mentioned documents.
  • Proof of English language proficiency (or waiver, if applicable*)
  • All applicants will also be asked to participate in a brief interview, conducted by the admissions officer (online or in-person).

Tuition and Expenses

• MIR Master’s degree (1 – 1.5 years) CHF 40,000.-
• Application fee (non-refundable) CHF 300.-
• Enrolment fee CHF 1,500.-
• 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.
• Please check the financing your studies page to learn more about the fellowships and scholarships available in GSD.

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.

Curriculum

• The GSD curriculum is based on 3 main pillars:
  • International Relations
  • International Law
  • International Economics
• Some of the courses at GSD:
  • Blue Diplomacy: International Ocean and Marine Governance
  • Digital Diplomacy and Internet Governance
  • International Law of Armed Conflict: Challenges and Case Studies
  • Global Health and International Relations
  • Humanitarian Diplomacy: Strategy, Policy, Implementation
  • Media and International Relations
  • New Dynamics in Global Migration
  • Dispute Settlement and Conflict Resolution: Legal Framework and Strategies
  • Emerging Trends in International Trade

What makes GSD’s MIR programme unique?

• Special access to UN and other diplomatic events
• Mandatory internships as part of the programme
• 1-1.5 years instead of 2
• Extensive networking opportunities
• Vibrant international student community
• Learn from real practitioners
• Personalised approach to student needs
• Strong focus on student well-being
• Obtain specialised skills for an international career

Application Process

• Desired Intake: September 2025, February 2026, September 2026
• Name (required)
• Date of Birth (required)
• Nationality (required)
• Email (required)
• Phone number (required)
• Address (required)
• Bachelor Degree Title (required)
• Date of Graduation (required)
• If working: Company / Organization, Position, Duration
• How did you hear about us?
• Why did you choose us? (required)
• Do you need financial assistance? (required)
• Do you have other special needs? (required)
• Passport (Copy/Scan of Photo Page)
• CV / Resume (required)
• Motivation letter (required)
• English proficiency certificate (required)
• Diploma and grade Transcripts (required)
• Recommendation Letter #1
• Recommendation Letter #2
• Additional documents

Payment Method

• Online
• Credit Card
• Bank Transfer (contact for details)