MAS ETH in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development
This description is only available in English.
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Autumn Semester 2026
Start -
18 months
Duration -
Zurich and abroad
Location -
EnglishTuition language
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01–28.02.2026
Application period
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CHF 6,260
Programme fee
In brief: The MAS ETH in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development
The programme combines studies at ETH with extended on-the-job training at an international organisation. By this students get to know the complex reality of development cooperation.
Structure and content
Programme description
The MAS ETH in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development (MAS ETH GCSD) strengthens knowledge and skills in all five key areas of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnerships). It builds on the expertise the students bring from their Master's degree. MAS graduates will have advanced their skills and competences to start their careers in international development.
Objectives
Professional perspectives
Structure and format
- Study semester: Courses on sustainable development and development cooperation
- On-the-job training (8 months): On-the-job training at an international organisation. Students from high-income countries do the assignment in a low- or middle-income country. Students from low- and middle-income countries complete the on-the-job training in Switzerland.
- Advanced training courses: Block courses to strengthen their expertise in sustainable development and project management.
Additional information
Number of participants is limited to 24: Admission is based on programme-specific admissions criteria and the constitution of the respective group of applicants.
Tuition language(s)
English
Credits
70 ECTS credits
Target group and admission
Target group
Requirements
A Master’s degree acknowledged by ETH or equivalent educational qualifications. Two-step selection process, assessing academic qualifications, practical experience and personal suitability for a career in development cooperation. Interviews: May 2024.
Required language skills
English: C1 – external page Show proficiency scales
Language(s) of performance assessment
Dates and venue
Start
Autumn Semester 2026 (September)
Duration
Application period
01–28.02.2026 (Admission after the application deadline)
Location
ETH Zurich and a low- or middle-income country during the on-the-job training.
Fees
Programme fee
CHF 6,260 for the entire programme. The cost of the on-the-job training (return air ticket, basic on-site living cost, complementary insurance) are covered through funding from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
Application fee
CHF 50 for persons with a Swiss university degree, CHF 150 for persons with another university degree (non-refundable, credit card payment only).
Withdrawal fee
More than 30 days after the admission date: CHF 3,000
Application
Questions about the application
ETH Zurich, School for Continuing Education, HG E 17–18.5, Rämistrasse 101, 8092 Zurich, Tel. external page +41 44 632 56 59, E-mail
Application documents
- Diploma certificate and transcript (of records) of the highest or most relevant degree
- Passport or identity card
- Download Declaration of consent (PDF, 94 KB)
Additional application documents
- 2 references (address, phone, e-mail), concerning your academic and/or professional qualifications (no reference letters)
- 1 essay in English of 600–800 words. Please reflect on a topic currently discussed in international cooperation that deserves particular attention. The topic of your essay will be discussed during the interview.
- 1 motivation letter in English
- CV
Organiser
Programme management
Contact
ETH Zurich
NADEL
Clausiusstrasse 37 (CLD)
8092
Zürich
Responsible body
ETH Zurich, Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (D-GESS), NADEL