11 Social Science Master's Degree Programs in Switzerland

Earning a master’s degree in International Relations will give you a practical understanding of the symbiotic relationship between the politics, markets, and people that make up the world we live in.

Master in Digital International Relations & Diplomacy. The Master in Digital International Relations and Diplomacy program is designed to balance theoretical knowledge and practical application. Geared towards empowering participants for swift entry into careers with international organizations, the foreign service, policy-making, international business, non-profits, and journalism, among others, our curriculum is tailored to provide a comprehensive understanding of international relations, coupled with hands-on experiences that mirror the dynamic challenges of the field.

The Master’s Programme in International Affairs and Governance (MIA) builds on the University of St.Gallen’s renowned expertise in Business by incorporating key aspects of Economics, Law, and Political Science. Our central aim is to cultivate adaptable generalists—graduates capable of addressing complex issues from multiple angles and engaging in cross-disciplinary dialogue. In time marked by unprecedented specialisation, these qualities are more valuable and relevant than ever.

Harmonize the three pillars of sustainability with Economic, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies through our applied research hubs and specialized concentration courses. You will develop a purpose-driven skillset by connecting management theory with responsible practice, culminating in a transformative Impact Project.

Upon successful completion of the study program students receive an international private Master of Arts (MA) in Liberal Studies degree awarded by the school's main campus in Zurich, Switzerland, based on the recommendation of the faculty of the local campuses where credits were earned, and upon the recommendation of the school's Academic Council.

In an increasingly interconnected, globalized and complex world, where the importance of multilateral dialogue and cooperation is ever growing, the demand for training and capacity development in the field of international affairs and diplomacy is constantly rising. The Master of International Affairs and Diplomacy, in partnership with the Open University of Catalonia (UOC), is designed to suit the needs of students and professionals interested in both developing essential knowledge for understanding international affairs, as well as strengthening their capacities in the practice of diplomacy. This online Master’s Degree will allow diplomats, government officials, students and other stakeholders to upgrade their studies and knowledge combining the highest quality university education and UN executive training.

Study International Relations in 1 year, taking full advantage of Geneva’s unique situation as a world capital of multilateral diplomacy. Leads to managerial positions in international organizations, diplomatic services, and the private sector (NGOs). The IIG MIRD may be extended (option) with the University of Plymouth (UK) for 4 months to get a second Master's. An internship with an NGO is included in the syllabus.

The Double Degree Programmes offer students a degree from the Geneva School of Diplomacy, and one from either Anglia Ruskin University in the UK or the University of Business and International Studies in Geneva. Such double degrees are increasingly sought-after, provide a solid foundation to better understand, and tackle the emerging global challenges of the 21st century.

MSc European Studies in Investor Relations and Financial Communication The aim of the Master's is to train specialists operating both in the banking sector and in capital markets. Graduated students will be able to bridge information and knowledge gaps between financial experts and investors and entrepreneurs. Moreover, such specialists will be asked to strategically manage a huge amount of information in order to suggest sound investment decisions.

The Executive Master in International Relations (EMIR) is a flexible and challenging graduate programme aimed at enriching the skills of professionals through a diverse modular curriculum, tailored teaching methods, and an interactive learning environment.

The Universities of Bern and Fribourg have the highest degree of expertise and the most diverse knowledge in all of Switzerland when it comes to Eastern Europe. With the Swiss Library of Eastern Europe – the largest specialized academic library in Switzerland for East European history and contemporary East European studies – the two universities also have at their disposal one of Europe's biggest research libraries for East European studies. All of this expertise is linked together to create a unique knowledge base in the Master program in East European Studies.