Program Design
Designed for professionnals
The Global Health PhD program at the University of Geneva has a distinctive approach compared to traditional programs. It is specifically designed for experts and professionals who pursue a PhD alongside their existing positions at international organizations.
A flexible framework
The PhD program combines both onsite and distance learning approaches, allowing candidates to work in their respective countries while pursuing their thesis. Typically, self-funded, the program integrates with ongoing initiatives within these organizations worldwide.
Program costs
When evaluating the expenses associated with pursuing a PhD in Global Health, it is crucial to consider the 4 main types of costs: University fees, course fees, and travel and accommodation expenses and costs related to research.
Studies duration
The PhD program, which can be completed in a minimum of three and a maximum of five years, is structured into two main components, the course requirements and the research requirements.
Course requirements
Acquisition of 18 ECTS: it is required to obtain a total of 18 ECTS credits. This includes earning 4 ECTS credits in total through participating twice in the Spring School in Global Health course held in Geneva.
Research requirements
Publishing scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals: PhD students are required to publish two scientific articles during their doctoral studies. These articles must be published (or fully accepted) in peer-reviewed scientific journals, with the student as the first author and the main supervisor as a co-author.
Supervision
The PhD research focuses on practical and implementable studies in the realm of global health. While main supervisors are based at the University of Geneva, co-supervisors within the organizations or in the students' respective countries often provide additional support.
Earning a doctoral degree
A « Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences, Global Health track » is delivered by the Faculty of Medicine upon successful completion of the doctoral program examinations and acceptance of the thesis manuscript.