History of the International University in Geneva: from the IUN to the IIG.

Founded in 1997, the International University in Geneva (IUN) provides students of more than 80 nationalities with the opportunity to learn and train from leading experts in the fields of business administration, international relations, digital media and information technology. 

On its 25th anniversary, the International University of Geneva (IUN) is renaming itself the International Institute in Geneva (IIG).

The new name embodies our long-standing commitment to offering one or more specialties with specific professional orientations within an institution of higher learning. 

It embraces everything that the International University in Geneva has stood for so long, more than a university, being and remaining an institute of educational excellence. 

This notion of an institute makes sense for the International Institute in Geneva (IIG), as we have always preferred to focus our programs on subjects that we consider relevant, in which we are successful, and which offer promising international career opportunities to our students.  

"For 25 years, IIG has been committed to excellence in teaching, learning, innovating, and developing leaders who can make a difference.” Eric Willumsen. President of the IIG

As a Swiss higher education foundation, the institution has integrated international academic standards by gaining dual European and American accreditation and is among the top business schools in Switzerland. 

Our institution offers a wide range of Bachelor and Master programs in business administration, international relations, digital media and IT. 

All these curriculums prepare students to learn and lead in an increasingly digital world. The  International Institute in Geneva (IIG) continues to strengthen its network of educational partners around the world. 

Our ambition is to create a strong balance between theoretical foundations and practical applications, through the use of real business problems and visits to major multinational companies in the region. 

Class sizes are small to allow for group discussions and to provide more individualized attention. The International Institute in Geneva (IIG) is committed to helping students reach their full potential. 

The change of name from International University in Geneva to the International Institute in Geneva (IIG) embodies this ambition to expose our students to real-life situations, to solve problems and to be ready to take on positions of great responsibility by the end of their studies. 

IIG promotes the importance of interpersonal skills, leadership, communication, and the ability to work in multicultural teams. It encourages active participation in the classroom and gives regular presentations on strategic management issues.

Students are expected to work in teams to simulate a situation in which they develop a proactive attitude and master effective communication skills. 

Our academic philosophy at the IIG emphasizes the development of an entrepreneurial orientation relevant to both small and medium-sized enterprises and large multinational companies.

In this sense, students are called upon to work in teams to simulate a situation in which they develop a proactive attitude and master effective communication skills. 
 

Our students now have twenty-two exchange programs with universities in over seventeen countries and can spend a term or a year abroad to immerse themselves in another culture. 

In addition, since 2019 the IIG has strengthened its collaboration with the University of Plymouth (UK): all undergraduate students can now obtain two degrees: from the IIG and from the University of Plymouth. 

By choosing to study in a multicultural city at the International Institute in Geneva (IIG), where the student body represents more than 60 nationalities, you prepare yourself for a global education. 

During your studies, our faculty, drawn from twenty countries, will strengthen your analytical and decision-making skills, which are essential to stand out in a highly competitive environment. 

The Alumni is spread over more than 100 countries and is a fantastic opportunity for students to be part of a global ecosystem. 

The Institute's multicultural student body, faculty, and dynamic environment contribute to a framework in which students gain a global education. 

Our team members strive to meet all student expectations in the areas of guidance, career planning and housing. We look forward to welcoming you and providing you with an education that will prepare you for an international career.

The faculty have significant and proven experience in industry and business at significant levels, combined with a strong academic background. The teaching methods at the  International Institute in Geneva (IIG) are innovative and emphasize the importance of gaining an international perspective on management, digital and international relations issues. 

The use of experiential learning methods such as case analysis and business simulations ensures the development of analytical skills, which are essential in today's competitive and rapidly changing world.  

The city where everyone feels at home.

Ideally situated on the shores of Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps, Geneva offers a wide range of outdoor sporting activities.
The cosmopolitan character of the city, with almost 150 nationalities from all over the world, contributes to making everyone feel at home. The quality and variety of Geneva's cultural life, its many theatres, museums and international conferences make it the ideal place to receive an international education. 

Birthplace of the World Wide Web 

Geneva is a window on the world of technology. It is home to world leaders such as the World Economic Forum (WEF), Hewlett-Packard, Nestlé, Richemont, Procter and Gamble, Caterpillar and Du Pont de Nemours. The International Telecommunication Union and the Reuters European Communications Centre have also chosen Geneva as their headquarters. CERN, located outside Geneva, is where the World Wide Web was invented. 

The city is also a showcase for the biggest names in fashion, jewelry and watchmaking, including Rolex and Patek Philippe. 

Distinguished guests speakers 

IIG regularly welcomes distinguished guests to speak at our school events, offering students the opportunity to be inspired by exceptional personalities and successful backgrounds. 

• Queen Noor of Jordan
• His Serene Highness Prince Albert of Monaco 
• José Maria Figueres Olsen, former President of Costa Rica
• Sir Peter Ustinov, UNICEF ambassador 
• Mrs. Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights