Principles of Multilingualism at UNIGE

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The University of Geneva is an institution rooted in a French-speaking city with an international perspective, in a multilingual country, and in an academic environment that transcends borders. UNIGE aims to promote excellence through encouraging intellectual debate in French, but also in many other languages depending on the fields concerned, and by avoiding the concentration of leading scientific expertise in countries with dominant languages. Multilingualism is therefore part of the University’s identity, in the same way that our anchoring in the French-speaking world is. A framework is provided through the following principles:
 

1. Languages utilized:

  • French is the official language of the University of Geneva. Faculty and staff who do not possess sufficient mastery of French to serve the Geneva community must achieve that level of mastery within two years of being hired. UNIGE actively encourages all its employees to gain exposure to French trough their professional activities.

  • English, with its preponderant position in the international academic space, constitutes, along with French, a regular working language in certain sectors. Members of personnel must be as proficient in English as the tasks and objectives of their position require.

  • The national languages of Switzerland are essential for exchanges within our country, and their study is encouraged. Proficiency in German, at least regarding comprehension, is recommended for those taking up institutional responsibilities at the Rectorate, in deans’ offices and the direction of centres, and in the services and divisions of the Rectorate.

  • Multilingualism, beyond the languages cited here, is a factor of diversity and inclusion and represents a richness for the university community and the institution in all the missions we undertake. It brings value to the University through the diversity of cultural perspectives that nurture knowledge. For this reason, members of the university community are strongly encouraged to consolidate and develop their skills in multiple national and international languages throughout their time at our institution.
     

2. Languages of instruction:

  • French is the default language of instruction at the University of Geneva.

  • At the Bachelor’s level, any exceptions must be duly justified. English language requirements for the first two semesters of Bachelor’s studies cannot exceed those of the Swiss Baccalaureate (CEFR level B2). Reservation is made for regulations applicable to specialized language tracks.

  • Starting at the Master’s level, certain courses can be taught in languages other than French when this choice is duly justified.
     

3. The French version remains authoritative in all communications and documentation from the University of Geneva. Translations into other languages may be provided on a case-by-case basis.
 

4. Internal communications issued by the Rectorate and the central services are disseminated in French and in English, in that order.
 

5. Implementation of these principles is facilitated by a dedicated working group.
 

The Principles of Multilingualism were approved by the UNIGE Rectorate in June 2026; they will continue to evolve.

They replace the document "Language policy at the University of Geneva: 18 measures" from 2012.