Overview
University of Geneva is a public research university established in 1559 in Geneva, Switzerland. It was founded as an academy for higher learning and has evolved into a comprehensive university with a strong international orientation. Its purpose is to advance knowledge through education, research, and public engagement, with an emphasis on addressing global challenges.The university operates within a multilingual and international context, reflecting Geneva’s role as a centre for diplomacy and global governance.
Mission and focus areas
University of Geneva’s mission is to provide high-quality education and produce independent research that contributes to society. It focuses on interdisciplinary inquiry across sciences, social sciences, humanities, medicine, and law. Research themes include climate change, sustainability, biodiversity, health, human rights, international law, and global governance.Through its academic work, the university contributes indirectly to sustainable finance and ESG-related thinking by informing policy, regulation, and evidence-based decision-making. Its proximity to international organisations supports research at the intersection of science, policy, and global economic systems.
Structure and governance
The university is organised into faculties, schools, and interdisciplinary institutes, each responsible for teaching and research within its domain. Governance is overseen by a Rectorate, led by a Rector and Vice-Rectors, supported by university councils and assemblies representing academic staff, students, and administrative personnel.This structure enables academic independence while ensuring accountability to public authorities that provide core funding.
Programs and offerings
University of Geneva delivers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral education, alongside executive and continuing education programmes. It produces peer-reviewed research, policy-relevant studies, academic journals, and public reports.The university also hosts specialised research centres and institutes that collaborate with international organisations, governments, and civil society. These outputs are valuable to finance and sustainability practitioners seeking credible academic research, policy insights, and evidence to inform ESG analysis, risk assessment, and long-term value creation.
