University of Geneva

What you'll study

This master's builds a combined understanding of commodity markets, instruments and the operational supply chains that underpin physical trading. Teaching typically covers market structure for energy, metals and soft commodities; pricing and valuation of physical and derivative products; quantitative and econometric methods for forecasting and risk modelling; and logistics, storage and transportation fundamentals.

• Core modules: commodity markets and economics, derivatives and structured products, risk management and portfolio theory, quantitative methods and time-series analysis.
• Applied modules: trading strategies and market microstructure, physical logistics and supply chain management, pricing of freight and storage, and environmental and regulatory issues in commodity markets.
• Practical components: trading simulations and case studies, use of industry-standard data and modelling tools, guest lectures from traders, and company-led projects.
• Research and capstone: a supervised dissertation or applied project that connects academic research with industry practice; options for internships with trading houses, banks, brokers or logistics firms.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in economics, finance, mathematics, engineering, or a closely related discipline. A solid quantitative background is advisable, demonstrated through prior coursework or professional experience.

• A complete academic transcript and degree certificate from a recognised institution.
• A curriculum vitae outlining relevant academic, internship or professional experience.
• A motivation letter explaining reasons for applying and intended career goals.
• At least one academic or professional reference.
• Proof of proficiency in the language(s) of instruction if required (for non-native speakers), such as recognised English language tests.
• In some cases, candidates with substantial professional experience may be considered even if their undergraduate specialism is slightly different, but should be able to demonstrate quantitative aptitude.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across the commodity value chain. Typical positions include trading analyst, junior trader, risk manager, commodity strategist, physical operations coordinator, logistics manager, and market analyst.

• Employers: commodity trading houses, international banks and brokers, commodity exchanges, energy and mining companies, agricultural trading firms, freight and logistics providers, and specialised consultancies.
• Functions: market risk and credit analysis, price modelling and forecasting, portfolio optimisation, supply chain and storage management, and sustainability/compliance roles focused on environmental and regulatory risks.

Why study at University of Geneva

The University of Geneva offers academic rigour combined with proximity to one of the world’s major commodity trading and financial centres. Students benefit from established links with trading firms and financial institutions in Geneva, frequent practitioner engagement, and access to a multilingual and international student community.

• Location advantage: the city hosts numerous commodity firms, banks and service providers, facilitating internships, company visits and networking.
• Interdisciplinary strengths: access to complementary expertise across economics, finance, law and international relations within the university.
• Practical orientation: emphasis on applied projects, trading simulations and industry guest speakers to prepare students for operational and decision-making roles in the sector.
• Career support: university career services and alumni networks to assist with recruitment into commodity firms, financial institutions and related industries.