Originally founded as a theological seminary and law school in 1959, the University of Geneva is considered to be one of the best 100 universities in the world. The third-largest university in Switzerland in terms of student numbers, it has a sizeable international population. Almost 40% of the university’s students come from abroad. The university is located in several buildings across Geneva as well as the nearby city of Carouge, with lectures given in six different locations.
With a cohort of over 16,500 students from 150 different nationalities, the University of Geneva (UNIGE) is Switzerland’s second largest university.
It was originally established as a theological seminary in 1559 by leading French theologian and pastor, Jean Calvin. It was granted university status in 1873 when it also relinquished its religious affiliations and became a secular institution.
UNIGE offers almost 300 degrees programmes. Although its undergraduate courses are taught primarily in French, the university also offers a number of masters programmes in English.
It is also a leading research university and a member of the League of European Research Universities, along with other renowned research-led institutions such as the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, and Imperial College London. UNIGE claims associations with 10 Nobel Prize winners.
UNIGE boasts strong links with international organisations such as the World Health Organisation and the United Nations, as well as partnerships with several global universities including Princeton University in the US, Yonsei University in South Korea and the University of Sydney in Australia, with which student exchanges take place.
The university plays a strong emphasis on physical health and its Bureau des Sports provides students with free sports classes on a daily basis. Competitive sport is also encouraged with UNIGE teams regularly competing in the Swiss university championships in skiing, basketball and ice-hockey.
Geneva itself is considered one of the leading cities in the world for its quality of life. Situated on the shores of the largest lake in Western Europe, and only a short distance from the Alps, its natural surroundings make it an ideal location for hiking, skiing and water sports.
With a diverse and international population, Geneva offers a vibrant, multicultural experience. Students can enjoy the city’s many museums, late night cafes and live music venues. In the summer, its world-famous Fêtes de Genève festival offers a programme of over 160 free shows.