Program Overview

The University of Geneva offers a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Urban Operational Planning and Urban Operators. This program is designed to provide students with the tools and methodologies necessary to understand the role of actors in urban dynamics, from the perspective of land use, financial implications, and the acquisition of building permits.

Program Details

Objectives

• Comprehend the role of actors in urban dynamics, including land use, financial implications, and building permits.
• Master the implementation chain of urban planning.
• Learn to organize and conduct an urban project from conception to realization.
• Understand, through case studies, the dynamics and blockages of various urban planning projects.

Public

The program is intended for professionals and individuals interested in acquiring conceptual and methodological tools specific to urban planning.

Program Structure

The CAS analyzes the role of actors and the steps involved in implementing plans, from defining policies to constructing buildings, including land acquisition policies, financial feasibility, and obtaining building permits.

Admission and Tuition

Admission Criteria

No specific admission criteria are mentioned, but the program is designed for professionals and individuals interested in urban planning.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee for the program is CHF 4,000. Students may be eligible for financial support.

Program Schedule

Duration

The program runs from September 2025 to December 2025.

Format

The program is taught in person, with 10 credits ECTS awarded upon completion.

Location

Classes are held in Geneva and Lausanne.

Partnerships and Collaborations

The diploma is jointly awarded by the University of Geneva and the École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). The program is directed by Prof. Laurent Matthey and Dr. Jérôme Chenal, with coordination by Dr. Marlène Leroux.

Related Programs

• MAS in Urban Planning (2026)
• CAS in Urban Planning Themes and Scales (2026)
• CAS in Urban Project and Spatial Planning (2026)
• CAS in Geographical Information in Urban Planning (2027)

Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals

The program contributes to the understanding and implementation of sustainable urban development practices, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

University of Geneva

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Overview:

The University of Geneva (UNIGE) is a public research university located in Geneva, Switzerland. It is known for its strong academic reputation and its commitment to research and innovation. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, and law.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

International Reputation:

UNIGE is a highly respected university with a strong international reputation.

Research Excellence:

The university is renowned for its research activities and its commitment to innovation.

Multilingual Environment:

Geneva is a multilingual city, and UNIGE reflects this diversity with a strong emphasis on international collaboration and exchange.

Location:

Geneva is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, offering students a rich cultural experience and access to international organizations.

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Academic Programs:

Bachelor Programs:

The university offers a wide range of bachelor's programs in various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, and law.

Master Programs:

UNIGE also offers a wide range of master's programs, providing students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen field.

Continuing & Distance Education:

The university offers a variety of continuing education and distance learning programs for those seeking to further their education or acquire new skills.

Geneva Summer Schools:

UNIGE hosts a number of summer schools, offering short-term programs in various disciplines.

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Other:

Research and Grants Office:

The university has a dedicated Research and Grants Office that supports faculty and students in securing funding for research projects.

E-Research:

UNIGE is committed to promoting e-research and provides resources and support for researchers working in this area.

Technology Transfer:

The university has a technology transfer office that helps to commercialize research findings and promote innovation.

Partnerships:

UNIGE is a member of several international university networks, including the 4EU+ European University Alliance, the League of European Research Universities (LERU), the G3 de la Francophonie, the Groupe Coimbra, and swissuniversities.

Triangle Azur:

UNIGE is part of the Triangle Azur network, which collaborates with the universities of Lausanne and Neuchâtel to coordinate activities, support joint projects, and share experiences in governance.