World Trade Institute (WTI) - University of Bern
Hallerstr. 6
3012
Bern
Switzerland
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Bern - WTI
Full Profile
The Program
The TRAIL+ is an advanced master’s programme in Trade and Investment Law combined with courses in international law and economics. This programme is offered at the World Trade Institute in cooperation with the Faculty of Law of the University of Bern.
What we offer
- A one-year, intensive graduate programme (can also be taken part-time)
- Teaching and guidance from leading scholars and practitioners
- The latest research developments in international trade and investment regulation, and economics
- The opportunity to join a vibrant WTI alumni network with over 600 members worldwide
- Strong networks and mentoring programmes to help students secure internships and entry-level positions. More info here.
What you bring
You are a student or a professional with a law degree and wish to further your legal career as a lawyer, or wish to pursue a PhD in international economic law.
Structure and regulations
The TRAIL+ programme is a non-consecutive LL.M. in Trade and Investment Law programme combined with a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) in International Law and Economics programme. Successful completion of the TRAIL+ programme includes both the LL.M. and DAS components. Upon the successful conclusion of the TRAIL+ programme, the student is awarded a LL.M. in International Trade and Investment Law as well as a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) in International Law and Economics
ECTS: the TRAIL+ programme counts for 90 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System Points).
Language of instruction: English
Studies begin: September
Length of studies: The TRAIL+ programme is designed for full-time completion in 12 to 15 months. The programme can also be taken on a part-time basis within three years.
Additional Information: In addition to the courses offered during the autumn and spring semesters, TRAIL+ programme students are able to take advantage of WTI Winter and Summer Academy courses. For more info, please visit our website.
The University
The World Trade Institute (WTI) is the leading interdisciplinary academic institution dedicated to teaching and research focused on international trade and investment regulation, economic globalisation and sustainability. As a centre of excellence at the University of Bern with an international, interdisciplinary focus, we explore the interconnections between the fields of law, economics and political science.
The Faculty
TRAIL+ course offerings draw on a global, highly experienced faculty. For a list of lecturers, please see the in-house and external faculty lists on the WTI People page and visit the University of Bern Faculty of Law page.
Alumni
Alumni of the WTI's various programmes are part of an ever-growing, global community of bright and dedicated minds. As a part of the WTI alumni community, you get access to upcoming events, current news, research results and job offers.
Many of our alumni have launched highly successful careers in a number of different sectors:
- International organisations including WTO, World Bank, UNCTAD, WIPO, UNEP, ITC, and regional development banks
- National ministries of trade, investment, finance and foreign affairs
- Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Swiss Secretariat for Economic Affairs
- European Commission
- Private sector including PwC, JP Morgan, Audi Forum Ingolstadt, Syngenta, Novartis, Japan Tobacco International
- Leading law firms with a trade and investment practice, including the Advisory Centre on WTO Law (ACWL)
- Industry associations
- Non-governmental organisations
If you want to know more about the Alumni careers, some success stories and the Alumni Association, please visit the dedicated website.
Entry Requirements
To be considered for admission to the TRAIL+ programme at the World Trade Institute, you are required to have completed a degree in law (licentiate or master's degree), or have a degree that is deemed equivalent, i.e. a degree in law which entitles you to sit for the bar exam or equivalent in your country of origin.
To apply for the TRAIL+ and for a detailed list of requirements, please use our online application form.
Application Procedure
IMPORTANT: Application deadlines
- Early bird: 1 December (applications submitted before this deadline will be given priority)
- Regular deadline: 31 January (applications submitted after the deadline will still be considered if space allows, however please be mindful of Visa regulations and timings for your nationality)
To apply for the TRAIL+ and for a detailed list of requirements, please use our online application form.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition for the TRAIL+ programme is CHF 18'000 (Swiss Francs) for both full and part-time studies.
You may benefit from either one of the following two payment methods:
- A 2% discount is applied if you pay your entire tuition fee prior to the first day of the programme.
- If you are not able to pay in full, there is the opportunity to pay in installments. Please contact us to discuss.
Registration fee
Application for the TRAIL+ programme is free.
A one-time, non-refundable registration fee of CHF 200 is required upon admission to the programme. We will provide you with bank details once we confirm your admission to the TRAIL+ programme. Any charges incurred during transfer of the tuition fee or registration fee must be borne by the applicant.
Financial Aid
Full tuition waiver
A full tuition waiver will be awarded to one person for an outstanding performance during the Grand Final of the Final Oral Round of the John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition (formerly ELSA Moot Court).
Global Impact Association (GIA) Scholarships
The newly launched Global Impact Association (GIA) offers scholarships to talented students from least-developed and developing countries, who wish to pursue advanced master studies in international economic law and policy. Click here for more information (scholarship offers, application process, deadlines etc.)
If you are a Bulgarian national, you are eligible for the exclusive financial support of the Fonds Katzarovi, specially designed for Graduate and PostGraduate studies in Switzerland. Deadline 15 March. More info here.
Some other scholarship opportunities may include:
- Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship for international students
- Study a Master's in Europe Scholarship
- Swiss Study Foundation (ex. Suyana Scholarship)
- The Spark of Hope Foundation (Women from the Global South)
There is more information on financial matters and possible financial support at the University of Bern website.
Location
If you choose to study at the World Trade Institute, you'll have the opportunity to live in Bern for a year - the capital of the Swiss confederation, home to 130'000 inhabitants and one of the prettiest cities in the world.
The picturesque old town, the river Aare flowing gently around the peninsula and the proximity to the Bernese Alps provide a beautiful setting and exceptional quality of life.
You wouldn't be the first smart person enjoying and being inspired by the beauty and calm of Bern: in 1905, Albert Einstein developed his general theory of relativity while living in Bern and working for the Bernese Patent Office!
More info on living in Bern at https://www.wti.org/institute/living-in-bern/
Accommodation
The World Trade Institute does not provide its own accommodation. The majority of students choose to book a room with the Bernese Student Lodging Association or find a room in a shared apartment.
We encourage you to start looking for accommodation well in advance. The number of rooms available at the student residences and the number of rooms/apartments for rent in the Bern region is very limited.
- This "Accommodation - Living" website of the University of Bern provides the most comprehensive list of options available to you
- Apartments and rooms for rent in shared apartments can be found at Weegee, WGZimmer, Housing Anywhere and Flatfox
- Available apartments in Switzerland can be found on Alle-Immobilien
Please note that we do not recommend the student housing at Bolligen.
Student Life
Students at the WTI can look forward to a range of extra-curricular activities during their time in Bern.
Students have the opportunity to attend the WTO Public Forum and the UNCTAD World Investment Forum in Geneva: two excellent platforms for networking and getting significant insights into the world of trade law and investment.
In addition, Bern has some noteworthy public events and traditions scattered throughout the year which will undoubtedly add to a positive experience during your time here. More information can be found on www.bern.com
Summer Program
Interested in broadening your knowledge of issues related to international law and economics? The WTI Summer Academy cover cutting-edge issues in trade and investment law and policy. It is designed for private and public sector and civil society professionals as well as higher-education students.
How does it work?
Summer Academy modules can be taken individually on an à la carte basis. All course are available on-site, in our campus in Bern, or online (in hybrid, live Zoom format). Students who take multiple courses in the Summer Academy can become eligible for a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) or a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in International Law and Economics. Visit our CAS / DAS Programmes page to learn more.
All info and application form here: https://www.wti.org/education/summer-academy/
Pre-LLM Course
Winter Academy
In Bern or online, the best place to specialise in trade and investment law and policy
Interested in broadening your knowledge of issues related to international law and economics? Our Winter Academy can be taken à la carte on a weekly basis or with the aim of obtaining a certificate or diploma.
The WTI Winter Academy covers cutting-edge issues in trade and investment law and policy. It is designed for private and public sector and civil society professionals as well as higher-education students. In lectures, discussions and case studies, renowned experts will teach you how to blend the policy aspects of trade and investment with thorough legal interpretation and economic analysis. By becoming a part of the WTI community, you will establish valuable contacts with fellow-minded professionals and lecturers.
Winter Academy modules can be taken individually on an à la carte basis. Students who take multiple courses can become eligible for a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) or a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in International Law and Economics. Visit our CAS / DAS Programmes page to learn more.
Are you an alumna/alumnus of our MILE or TRAIL+ programmes? If so, you qualify for a 50% discount on the week-long courses offered in our Winter Academy. In your application, please indicate that you are a MILE or TRAIL+ alumna/alumnus.
Programs at Bern - WTI
Full-Time
- The Master of International Law and Economics (MILE) is the flagship programme of the World Trade Institute.
- Can also be pursued on a part-time basis.
- Combines an LL.M. with a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) in International Law and Economics
- Can also be pursued on a part-time basis
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