Take an In-Depth Dive Into Specialized Study with Hands-On Experiences

Webster University is offering new thematic  Study Abroad sessions at three international campuses: Geneva, Leiden and Vienna.

Two back-to-back sessions – Summer 1 (June 2-27) and Summer 2 (June 30-July 25) – will be offered at each of these vibrant locations. Each four-week session will host thematic programs comprised of a three-credit core course and a one-credit experiential learning course.

An aerial view of the campus near Lake Geneva.

The World’s Smallest Truly Global City

Geneva’s spirit of international cooperation made it the ideal site for Webster’s first international campus in 1978.

Home to the European headquarters of the United Nations, Geneva has a history of diversity and tolerance. Its efforts began with the creation of the Red Cross, and continue today as the home of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. With a population of about 200,000, made up of citizens from over 175 countries, Geneva is often called the world’s smallest truly global city. 

Located in Bellevue, our Geneva campus welcomes students from nearly 90 nationalities each year, making it the most culturally diverse in Webster's international network. The park-style campus offers views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Study Lakeside this Summer at Webster Geneva

Study Art, Business, International Relations, Media Studies, Photography, Psychology or Swiss Culture in Summer 2025 at Webster Geneva. Develop your understanding of international relations in the home of multilateral diplomacy, or focus on the Swiss business sphere from sports to winemaking.

Each session will focus on a specific theme and offer a one-credit experiential learning focused course to enhance the theme.

Webster students in outside team-building exercise

Summer Session 1 offers Global Governance, Swiss Sports and Communications, and Swiss Art and Photography Markets. 

Summer Session 2 offers Psychology and Digital Culture, the Economic and Social Impact of Swiss Chocolate and Wine, or a program on AI, VR and Beyond. Read more about the course offerings in each session below.

Read more about the course offerings in each session below.

Study for four or eight weeks in Geneva or pair four weeks in Geneva with four weeks in Leiden or Vienna.

Summer 1: June 2–27

Global Governance

Since Geneva is home to the United Nations (UN), these courses combine theoretical knowledge and experiential skills integration through the world governments’ architectural framework for peace negotiations, arms treaties and other forms of agreements relative to conflict and dispute resolution, including sustainable solutions, via visits and speakers. While examining the issues, institutions and debates surrounding this emerging subfield in contemporary international relations, these courses introduce a range of major global issues. The courses highlight the multiple global challenges including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with special presentations by invited faculty and international practitioners.

Course Fee: $200

Webster students and faculty socialize below international flags

Dive into the intricate world of international relations by embarking on a dynamic journey through the diplomatic hub of Geneva. This course offers a comprehensive study of contemporary global issues, providing students with the opportunity to engage with international organizations, experts and policymakers. Through insightful lectures, discussions and immersive site visits, students will gain a profound understanding of the complexities and challenges that shape the global stage.

By combining theoretical knowledge, practical experiences and critical thinking, this course will equip students with a well-rounded perspective on the complex issues central to sustainability studies. Content will look at the role of social, political, environmental, communication, educational, economic and ethical factors in the development of sustainability, including through the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals.

United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG): explore the UN's role in promoting peace, human rights, and international cooperation and attend briefings and discussions with UN officials on current global issues.

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, Geneva: learn about humanitarian diplomacy and the role of these organizations in mitigating conflicts. Engage in workshops on negotiation techniques and conflict mediation.

Site visit at Cantonal Recovery Area (ESREC) Châtillon, the Geneva Waste Management Center.

Field Trip to a Sustainable Community: Visit a local sustainable community to observe sustainable living practices, including renewable energy use, organic farming, and community-based initiatives.

Swiss Art and Photography Markets 

Webster student working in a photography lab.

Studying the art and photography markets in Switzerland offers students an unparalleled opportunity to explore a dynamic environment where culture meets innovation. Switzerland’s thriving cultural scene, home to esteemed galleries and institutions, serves as an ideal setting for immersive learning. Visits to Art Basel and Photo Basel, two of the world’s premier commercial fairs, enrich this experience, fostering an understanding of the global art and photography markets.

Course Fee: $150 

This course offers an in-depth examination of the contemporary art and photography markets, focusing on the roles of major players, the business of art and the evolving trends that shape this dynamic sector. Students explore the complexities of valuation, the influence of cultural policies and the transformative impact of digital innovation on the art world. By analyzing how art and photography are bought, sold, and appreciated in today’s global economy, students gain valuable insights. By the course’s end, they have a strong grasp of the key players — including artists, galleries, auction houses, collectors, and institutions — and a comprehensive understanding of the economic principles that drive art transactions and valuation.

ARHS 2200 fulfills ROC/CRI Global Citizenship Program requirements.

Through an immersive hands-on project, students explore the intersection of business, art, and photography. By the end of this course, students are equipped with the skills to critically assess the influence of global economic trends on the art and photography markets, gaining a real-world understanding of these industries.

To enrich the learning experience, this theme includes a full-day, immersive trip to Basel, featuring visits to two of the world’s leading commercial art fairs, Art Basel and Photo Basel. This firsthand exposure gives students valuable insights into the inner workings of the art market deepening their understanding of art exhibition and sales practices in Switzerland.

Sports and Media in Switzerland 

Geneva and Switzerland are headquarters to global sports organizations governing professional and amateur sports. This immersive theme invites students to delve into the heart of Swiss sports, exploring the historical significance, modern innovations and the fusion of athleticism and culture. Students examine the social and economic impact of these Swiss sports entities and industries via experiential visits and exchanges with professionals affiliated with sports organizations. Through a series of curated visits to key sports-related sites and activities, including media and communications outlets, students gain a profound understanding of how sports have woven themselves into the fabric of Switzerland.

Course Fee: $120

 

Webster students in football jerseys pose in front of Geneva campus building

Discover the world of sports economics in Switzerland, where global sports organizations and vibrant industries shape one of the most influential sports economies in the world. This course provides a deep dive into the economic forces driving sports, from major international events to grassroots initiatives. Students examine how Switzerland became a headquarters for governing bodies like the International Olympic Committee and FIFA, and explore the financial dynamics behind sponsorships, media rights, and event management.

Through immersive learning experiences, site visits, and discussions with industry professionals, students gain practical insights into the economic impact of sports on Swiss society and beyond. By the end of this course, students understand the complex interplay between sports, economics, and culture in one of the most influential hubs of the global sports industry.

Students conduct informational interviews to gain insights into the characteristics, structure, and operations of various sports organizations, including ones related to media and communications.
 

Students visit prominent sports venues, including the FIBA (International Basketball Federation) and FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme), with a focus on the pivotal role of media within these organizations. This experiential activity offers valuable insights into the intersection of media, sports, and economics, enhancing students' understanding of how media shapes and supports the sports industry.
 

 

Summer 2: June 30-July 25

Swiss Chocolate and Wine 

This immersive summer course explores the economic impact of two of Switzerland's most iconic industries — chocolate and wine. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of how these products have shaped Switzerland’s economy, from production and export trends to their cultural significance and global influence. Through hands-on learning, including visits to renowned Swiss chocolate factories and vineyards, students explore the business models, marketing strategies and global trade dynamics behind these luxury goods. By the end of the course, students are equipped with a nuanced understanding of how Swiss chocolate and wine contribute to both the nation’s economy and its global reputation.

Course Fee: $200

A historic building in Geneva with cafes and shops at street level and apartments above.

This immersive course explores the intricate and fascinating world of Swiss wine and chocolate. It offers students a comprehensive understanding of the unique business practices, cultural significance and global market dynamics of two of Switzerland's most iconic products. 

ILC 2150 fulfills GLBL/INTC Global Citizenship Program requirements.

In this course, after visits to local wine cellars and to a chocolate making workshop, students have firsthand experiences in Geneva of sustainable practices and business operations.  
 

This theme includes visits to Caves de Genève for a guided wine cellar tour and tasting, as well as a visit to the chocolaterie Stettler, where students participate in a hands-on chocolate-making experience.

Game On Genev: AI, VR and Beyond 

A Webster student and instructor work together during a lesson.

Studying game design in Switzerland offers a unique opportunity to explore a global hub of innovation and creativity. Known for its cutting-edge technology, diverse international community and rich cultural history, Geneva provides an ideal setting for aspiring game designers. The city’s strong focus on digital innovation and its proximity to major gaming companies and startups make it a prime location for networking and hands-on learning. Students gain valuable insights into game design, development, and the global gaming industry, while being immersed in a vibrant, multicultural environment that fosters creativity and collaboration.

Course Fee: $100

Throughout this course, students explore emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR), which are increasingly being integrated into the video game industry. The course introduces different types of information systems and examines their positive and negative impacts on various aspects of our lives.
 

Students practice and apply how AI is used to improve and accelerate the development of video games, from creating character animations, to understanding player behavior patterns and ending with generating dialogue and stories to enhance the player’s experience.  
 

Alongside learning about AI, students experience VR firsthand at Dreamscape Geneva, gaining an understanding of how this technology has revolutionized the video game industry by offering immersive, interactive experiences. Additionally, they visit the Electronic Arts (EA) headquarters in Geneva. Visits to CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) and EPFL (the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne), further bridging the gap between computing and gaming technology.

Swiss Psychology and Digital Culture 

Studying psychology and digital culture in Geneva, Switzerland offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness, making it an ideal location for exploring the intersection of human behavior and the digital world. Geneva is home to numerous international organizations, including the United Nations and the World Health Organization, providing students with a global perspective on psychological issues and digital policy. The city’s diverse and multicultural environment also offers insights into how digital culture affects various populations worldwide. By studying here, students gain a deep understanding of the psychological impacts of digital technologies, social media and virtual environments in a world-class academic setting.

Course Fee: $120

A train traveling through Geneva.

This interdisciplinary course explores the diverse convergence of psychology and global culture in Switzerland. Students engage with theories and frameworks, examining their application in psychological practice. The course covers historical and contemporary issues, professional guidelines and implications of global digital technologies on individuals and society. Students develop interdisciplinary skills in reasoning and decision-making, and learn to apply these skills to complex cross-cultural professional and global challenges and opportunities. Some examples of contemporary issues in Switzerland are mental health and social media use, digital misinformation and public trust, data privacy and surveillance culture, digitalization of therapy and mental health services. 

This course explores the psychological impact of digital culture on individuals and societies, focusing on the pervasive role of technology in shaping contemporary psychological challenges. Students examine how social media, virtual communication, online communities and digital media consumption influence mental health, contributing to issues such as anxiety, addiction, and body image concerns. By investigating these digital interactions, students gain a deeper understanding of the psychological effects of our increasingly connected world.

Switzerland offers a wealth of enriching activities and visits for an interdisciplinary course on psychology and digital culture. Highlights include visits to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum in Geneva and the Jung Institute in ZUrich.

 

Program Cost Details

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Webster University | WINS

Webster WINS Partner Schools

Is your school a Webster WINS partner? If so, you may be eligible for a scholarship up to $500 toward your airfare. Check to see if your school is already a partner!

 

Other Questions?

Email worldview@webster.edu or call 314-968-6988.

students on boat tour in Geneva
Student Spotlight on Webster Geneva

“Geneva is a very central city in Europe so ... my friends and I are able to travel a lot on the weekends, and that was one of the big reasons why I wanted to study abroad.”

students on boat tour in Geneva
Megan

Study Abroad Student from St. Louis, Missouri