Studying at the Institute

Studying social and economic history enables us to analyze complex situations, to understand current affairs as well as to acquire fundamental skills notably in terms of the capacity to synthesize contents. Multidisciplinary approach constitutes one of the specificities of economic history. While focusing its attention on the analysis of the past, studies mobilize a large arrray of social science approaches and methodologies, drawing in particular from domains such as economics, sociology, political science or georgraphy. The Institute offers a complete sequence of degrees, at the BA, MA as well as Doctorate levels .

Bachelor in Social and Economic History

The BA in social and economic history offers students btoh general skills in social science and economics as well as the opportunity to analyze complex problems and inscribes current affairs in their historical context.

The BA covers the history of a wide variety of topics including the global economy, wealth and poverty, finance and monetary affairs, work and labor relations, migrations, North-South relations, international trade, industrialization and technology .

Students may also choose elective and optional courses, allowing them to customize the content of their final degree. Studies last at most 8 semesters. The BA degree is obtained after the validation of 120 credits, including a substantial research paper.

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Master in International Economic History

The MA in international economic history at the University of Geneva is the only one of its kind in Switzerland. Its objectives are three-fold:

• Prepare MA holders for advanced research in social and economic history, for example in the context of doctoral studies;

• To offer those interested the opportunity to apply for jobs in secondary or high schools. The specific mention «geography» enables students to integrate in their MA curriculum fields related to human geography: border issues, territories and land use, urban policies. With this mention, students will have at their disposal two teaching subjects, a pre-requisite for education jobs.

• To offer a wide-ranging and advanced education leading to public and private sector careers. Students acquire skills enabling them to analyze economic events in their social and institutional context as well as deal with complex issues in a clear and structured manner.

Studies for a MA in international economic history last between 3 to 5 semesters (90 credits), including the redaction of a substantial research thesis.

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Phd in Economic and Social Sciences - Economic History

Doctoral studies last between three to five years. Their aim is to conceive and write a thesis, in a creative work which araws on the original and advanced research undertaken by the candidate and makes a recognisable contribution to the field of economic history. Doctoral studies may be undertaken in the context of either a research team work or an individual project. In both cases, doctoral students must prove their capacity to work independently and to lead an original scientific inquiry.

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