University of Geneva

What you'll study

The programme integrates core topics in portfolio construction and asset allocation with specialised modules on private client advisory. Typical subject areas include investment analysis and portfolio management, alternative investments, behavioural finance, risk management, and fixed income and equity strategies. Complementary courses cover taxation and estate planning, trust law and fiduciary duties, compliance and anti-money-laundering frameworks, and ethical issues in private wealth.

Teaching blends theory and practice: case studies, client simulations and workshops are used alongside quantitative training in financial modelling and valuation. Students normally complete a major research project or professional dissertation focused on a wealth-management problem, and there are opportunities to undertake internships with Geneva-based banks, family offices or advisory firms.

Structure

• Core finance and quantitative modules to build technical skills.
• Sector-specific modules addressing private banking, tax and legal aspects of wealth transfer.
• Electives that allow specialisation (e.g. sustainable investing, philanthropy and family governance, fintech for private clients).
• Capstone project or master's thesis integrating academic and applied work.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in finance, economics, business, law or a related discipline. Strong quantitative skills and familiarity with basic financial concepts are normally required. Selection typically considers academic transcripts, a CV, motivation letter and references; some applicants may be invited to an interview.

Relevant professional experience is an advantage, particularly for applicants to part-time or executive variants. Proficiency in the language(s) of instruction must be demonstrated; the programme may accept recognised language tests or institutional exemptions where appropriate.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue roles across the private wealth ecosystem, including positions as wealth managers, private bankers, relationship managers, portfolio managers for private clients, family office professionals, trust and estate planners, and client-facing investment advisers. Other career pathways include roles in asset management firms that service high-net-worth clients, compliance and risk functions focused on private clients, fintech firms developing wealth solutions, and consultancy or regulatory bodies specialising in wealth management policy.

Career development is supported by internships and the University of Geneva’s connections within Geneva’s financial centre, helping students transition into entry-level and mid-level professional roles in domestic and international settings.

Why study at University of Geneva

The University of Geneva is located in a global financial and diplomatic hub, providing direct proximity to major private banks, family offices and international organisations, which enriches learning and internship opportunities. The faculty bring a mix of academic research and practitioner experience, and the multilingual, international student body reflects the cross-border nature of wealth management.

Students benefit from the University’s academic resources, structured career services, and an alumni network active in Swiss and international finance. The programme’s emphasis on combining technical investment skills with legal, tax and ethical understanding is designed to prepare graduates for the complex, client-focused challenges of contemporary wealth management.