Overview

Programme overview

The Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, combines a theoretical understanding of local and global development challenges with practical skills for working in international cooperation.

The study programme combines on-campus studies with 8 month on-the-job training with international cooperation organisations in Switzerland or abroad.

The programme is designed for graduates from all disciplines: from natural sciences and engineering to the humanities and social sciences.

Career prospects after graduation

A tracer study of alumni (2000–2024) showed that 78% secured jobs within three months of graduation, often in NGOs or public administration, with many advancing to leadership roles. The program, highly rated by over 90% of graduates, fosters strong networks and provides tools for impactful careers in sustainable development.

Programme Structure

The programme combines academic coursework with practical junior professional officer (JPO) placements abroad. The programme has three parts:

First study semester at ETH Zurich, including compulsory and elective courses covering the major aspects of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Interdisciplinary sustainable development group project in partnership with an NGO. Workshops and practical training on moderation, negotiation, and leadership.
Eight-month on-the-job training with international cooperation organisations abroad or in Switzerland.
Advanced study semester with elective courses on various sustainable development topics ranging from food security or migration, to design thinking and decolonizing aid. Development policy thesis.

Audience

The programme is interdisciplinary and intercultural. ETH NADEL welcomes students from all disciplinary backgrounds and all countires.

Lecturers

ETH NADEL has a diverse group of lecturers with different thematic backgrounds, and each course involves guest lecturers from other areas of ETH, other academic institutions as well as pracice.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 18 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-07 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-28 00:00:00

More details

Application window from 1 to 28 February.

Language

English

Credits

70 ECTS

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Zürich, Switzerland

Disciplines

International Development Sustainable Development View 6 other Masters in International Development in Switzerland

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

A Master's level degree recognised by ETH Zurich or a Bachelor's level degree with relevant work experience.

Work experience

Not required

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

6260 CHF / year

≈ 6260 CHF / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

6260 CHF / year

≈ 6260 CHF / year

Additional Details

Living costs during the eight-month on-the-job training are financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

Living costs

Zürich

Switzerland

1920 - 2572 CHF / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

A limited number of scholarships are available for students from low- and middle-income countries. There is a separate application procedure for scholarships. Details and application: https://nadel.ethz.ch/education/mas-development-and-cooperation.html

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Master of Advanced Studies Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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