Dates: June 30 - july 30, 2013 - APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MAY 17

Why Geneva?

Geneva is the perfect setting for an institute emphasizing public and private international trade. The primary European seat of the United Nations is at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. Over a hundred non-governmental organizations and a dozen inter-governmental agencies also work in conjunction with the United Nations in Geneva. Among the agencies and organizations in Geneva are the World Trade Organization, the International Labor Organization, the World Health Organization, the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, the International Commission of Jurists, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and many more.

The Duke-Geneva Institute is designed to address the educational and professional needs of students and young lawyers with an interest in international and comparative law as well as those with an interest in transnational practice. The Institute brings together a congenial group of participants and faculty members who wish to share their highly-varied legal backgrounds and cultures and to learn from one another. The academic program draws on the rich international community of Geneva and is enhanced by special seminars that complement and enrich the classroom instruction.

Students at the Institute are also able to take advantage of the many activities available in the Geneva area. During the 2012 program, students enjoyed sailing, rafting, Alpine hiking, wine-tasting, and exploring in neighboring environs. Geneva is an excellent location for a wide range of outdoor activities as well as for participation in cultural events such as the well-known music festivals in nearby towns.

Who Can Apply

JD students who have completed at least one year of law study, students preparing to study for an LLM degree in the United States, advanced law students from all countries, and judges, academics, practitioners, and other professionals seeking knowledge of American and comparative law are welcome to apply for the program.

It is anticipated that 65 participants will enroll in the 2013 program - about one-quarter from the United States and the rest from countries around the world. The 2012 Duke-Geneva Institute had a total enrollment of 50 students, 7 with a previous affiliation with Duke University. The majority will come from European and other countries. The following countries were represented by participants in the 2012 program: Australia, Canada, China, Colombia, Denmark, France, Guatemala, India, Iran, Italy, Japan, Korea, Panama, South Africa, Switzerland, and the United States.

Our partner institution

Learn more about our partner institution, the University of Geneva, in English or French.