International Relations students have the opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience through the Geneva Internship Program. During the first six weeks of the program, students take core classes while preparing for an eight-week professional internship at a local organization. The internship manager facilitates individualized internship placements in English. Students are placed in one of the many humanitarian, political, or economic organizations headquartered in Geneva. Throughout the program, students live in a conveniently located residence hall near Lake Geneva.
Key Facts
Area of Study
Location
Home University
Program Structure
Internship Availability
Term
Coursework Level
BU Hub Offered
Housing
Language of Instruction
Requirements & Considerations
- All students must enroll according to, and remain in compliance with, the Boston University Study Abroad Course Load Policy.
- Due to the highly competitive nature of internship placements in Geneva, candidates are required to have relevant work, internship, or volunteer experience
- Admissions requirements for all programs
Curriculum
The course is structured in two phases: a 7-week Core Phase where students take two required courses and one elective based on their preference, followed by a 10-week Internship Phase involving full-time placements in related fields.
Housing & Student Services
Program Residence
- Double or triple rooms with shared bathrooms
- Shared, fully equipped kitchen
- No dining hall
- Laundry in BU residence
- Common study and recreational space at BU residence
- Limited single rooms may be available for an additional charge
Program Dates
This program follows rolling admissions and may fill before the official deadline.
Fall Term
Early September to Mid-December
Fall Term
December 15
Applications Open
Fall Term
March 15
Application Deadline
Spring Term
Early January to late April
Spring Term
June 1*
Applications Open
Spring Term
September 15
Application Deadline
This program is rolling admissions; applications are reviewed once all application materials are received, prior to all deadlines. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all required materials are received by the BU Study Abroad office. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible as some programs and internship tracks have limited space and may fill up before the deadline. Submitting a complete application prior to the application deadline, does not guarantee acceptance. Students will be emailed an admissions decision within three weeks of a completed application.
Information for BU Students Awaiting an Admissions Decision and exceptions to the standard admission calendar for all students can be found here.
Cost & Financial Considerations
- 2025/2026 Tuition & Fees: $42,284 per term
- Cost includes tuition, housing, program related activities, administrative fee, overseas medical insurance, and emergency evacuation coverage
- Estimated program budget including cost of living expenses.
- Grants and Scholarships available