Study Abroad

Study Physics in Geneva & Research at CERN

Spend the spring semester studying advanced physics at the University of Geneva while conducting mentored research at CERN, one of the world’s leading centers for particle physics and scientific innovation.

Established in 2010, the BU Geneva Physics Program gives undergraduates an unusual opportunity to combine study abroad with sustained participation in an international research community. The program is designed primarily for the second semester of the junior year and allows students to continue making progress toward their physics degree while living and working in Geneva.

Program highlights: approximately six months in Geneva, 19 academic credits, upper-level coursework at the University of Geneva, directed research at CERN, and an optional six-week summer research extension for selected students.

How the Program Works

The program begins with a six-week introductory academic phase at the BU Geneva Center. Students take intensive French and Computation for Experimental Particle Physics, which develops practical skills in scientific programming, data analysis, visualization, and communication.

Students then enroll at the University of Geneva and select upper-level physics or related courses appropriate to their interests, preparation, and degree requirements. Many University of Geneva courses are taught in French. The program provides additional academic support, including regular English-language follow-up or discussion sessions for designated core courses.

At the same time, each student undertakes a directed research project at CERN under the supervision of a CERN scientist or engineer. Students become part of an active research group and gain experience with the collaborative, technical, and intellectual work of modern physics.

Research at CERN

Research placements vary from year to year and reflect work currently underway at CERN. Recent project areas have included collider and neutrino physics, artificial intelligence, scientific computing, detector research and development, electronics, instrumentation, accelerator physics, medical physics, data analysis, and science communication Students work closely with their mentors throughout the semester. Depending on the project and its stage of development, students may contribute to technical studies, scientific presentations, conference results, or publications. Take a look at the recent BU Today Article for recent research examples.

Courses at the University of Geneva

The lectures at the University of Geneva (Electrodynamics 2 and Quantum Mechanics 1) are taught in French, with a separate discussion section in English held weekly. Students are considered full-time University of Geneva students, and enjoy all student privileges.

If you have taken all the standard physics courses already, you can take other UniGe courses at Geneva. Course availability changes each year. Students select courses in consultation with BU Physics faculty so that their Geneva coursework is appropriate for their academic preparation and degree plan. The list below shows courses taken by recent program participants and should be viewed as representative rather than guaranteed. For information on courses conducted by the University of Geneva follow the links: Course catalog for UNIGE Faculty of Sciences and UNIGE Calendar.

Summer Research Extension

A limited number of students may be selected to remain in Geneva for an additional six weeks after the academic program. During the extension, students transition to full-time research at CERN, working approximately 40 hours per week with their research mentor.

Students ordinarily continue the project they began during the spring, allowing them to take on a larger and more independent role in the research. The summer extension is funded, and participants continue to live in the BU residence in Geneva. Selection is competitive, and applications are submitted during the spring semester.

Living in Geneva

Students live in BU program housing in central Geneva and have access to University of Geneva libraries, facilities, organizations, and student activities. Public transportation provides convenient access to both the university and CERN. The program also includes opportunities to experience Geneva and the surrounding region through cultural activities, excursions, and engagement with the city’s international community.

Who Should Apply?

Applicants should have the physics and mathematics preparation needed for upper-level coursework, at least two semesters of college-level French, and some previous programming experience. Because students navigate a new university system while participating in active research, flexibility, independence, adaptability, and a strong work ethic are essential. Students should discuss the program early with their BU Physics academic advisor to confirm prerequisites and determine how Geneva courses will apply toward their degree.

For eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and instructions, visit:
Boston University Study Abroad Geneva Physics Program page.