Program Overview

Program Overview

The University of Geneva offers a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Decentralized Application Development with Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLT). This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the technical, legal, and business aspects of blockchain and DLT.

Objectives

The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to:

• Understand the ecosystem of Web3, including blockchain, DLT, and decentralized finance
• Develop and deploy decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts
• Evaluate the quality of smart contracts and DLT solutions
• Document and communicate the design and development of decentralized applications

Target Audience

The program is intended for individuals with a background in programming, as well as those interested in the business and legal aspects of blockchain and DLT, including:

• Managers
• Lawyers
• Financiers
• Entrepreneurs
• Programmers

Program Structure

The program consists of four modules, each focusing on a specific aspect of blockchain and DLT:

Module 1: Fundamentals of Blockchain and DLT

• Introduction to the technical, legal, and business aspects of blockchain and DLT
• Overview of Web3, including crypto-currencies, NFTs, and decentralized finance

Module 2: Introduction to Blockchain Development

• Design and development of blockchain projects
• Development and deployment of smart contracts

Module 3: Advanced Development with Ethereum

• In-depth study of Ethereum and its ecosystem
• Development and deployment of smart contracts on the Ethereum platform

Module 4: Management of Blockchain Projects and Development with Other DLTs

• Management of blockchain projects
• Development and deployment of smart contracts with other DLTs, such as Hyperledger and Hedera Hashgraph

Evaluation and Assessment

Each module will be evaluated through a combination of exams, practical work, and presentations. The final project will consist of the development and deployment of a decentralized application or smart contract.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for the program are as follows:

• CHF 11,000 for the entire program
• CHF 2,950 for Module 1
• CHF 3,450 for Modules 2, 3, and 4

Admission Criteria

Admission to the program is based on a selection process, which includes:

• A copy of a valid passport or ID
• A photo (passport-style)
• A CV
• A letter of motivation
• Copies of diplomas and transcripts

Language

The program will be taught in English, with some modules possibly being taught in French.

Duration

The program will run from September 2025 to May 2026, with each module being taught over a period of several weeks.

Credits

The program is worth 12 ECTS credits, which can be transferred to other universities or used towards a master's degree.

Partnerships and Collaborations

The program is supported by various organizations and companies in the blockchain and DLT industry, including Ripple, Hedera Hashgraph, and IBM Hyperledger.

Contribution to Sustainable Development

The program contributes to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop innovative solutions for sustainable development using blockchain and DLT.