- I cannot decide whether to take the MILE or the TRAIL+ programme. How do the two differ?
The MILE has been our flagship programme since 1999 and taps into the expertise of the world’s leading academics and practitioners in the field of international economic governance. The uniquely multidisciplinary MILE programme includes law courses as well courses in economics and political science. Upon completion of the programme, the student is awarded a Master of International Law and Economics (MILE) degree, which is equivalent to a Master of Advanced Studies.
The TRAIL+ programme is a newly-launched programme which includes more law courses and fewer courses on economics and political science and is more suitable for students wishing to pursue a career as a practising lawyer or a PhD in law. The TRAIL+ programme is offered by the World Trade Institute in cooperation with the Faculty of Law of the University of Bern. Upon the successful conclusion of the TRAIL+ programme, the student is awarded an LL.M. in International Trade and Investment Law, as well as a Diploma of Advanced Studies in International Law and Economics.
- Which programme helps me qualify for a PhD in law programme?
Graduates of the TRAIL+ programme qualify for pursuing a PhD in law. They are eminently well qualified for pursuing doctoral studies in the field of international economic law. MILE graduates with an LL.M. or JD also qualify. However, MILE graduates with a BA, LLB or equivalent degree do not qualify.
- I am an alumnus / alumna of the MILE programme with a degree in law. Can I get my LL.M. retrospectively?
Please contact the WTI to determine your eligibility for the TRAIL+ programme. Please note, however, that credits already used to obtain the MILE degree cannot be used again to obtain an LL.M.
- Is the application process the same for the MILE and for the TRAIL+?
Yes. There are two separate forms to fill out with nearly identical information. Please refer to the 'Admission' section of our website for information on how to apply for each programme. The application requirements are the same for both.
- Why do both programmes have the same amount of ECTS points, but only one qualifies me for a PhD in law programme?
The TRAIL+ programme qualifies students for a PhD in law programme*, because the academic course offering of the Faculty of Law gives them the amount of ECTS points needed to receive an LL.M. (60 ECTS). In addition, TRAIL+ students take additional courses on international law and economics (30 ECTS). Hence the +. Students completing these courses are awarded, in addition to an LL.M. in International Trade and Investment Law, a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) in International Law and Economics. Such students are eminently well prepared to pursue a PhD in international economic law.
TRAIL+ students have more law courses and fewer courses in economics and political science than MILE students. Both the MILE and the TRAIL+ programmes are demanding 90 ECTS programmes. The MILE programme is tailored to those students who wish to work in the field of international economic governance as multi-disciplinary experts, while the TRAIL+ programme is more suitable for students wishing to pursue a career as a practising lawyer in this field or wishing to pursue a PhD in law.
- I am currently employed and want to take the MILE or the TRAIL+ programme on a part-time basis. Is this possible?
Yes, TRAIL+ and MILE courses can be taken on a part-time basis over a two to three year period. If you are interested in taking a programme part-time, please indicate so on your application form. Upon admission to the programme of your choice and in consultation with the WTI Director of Studies, you will be able to pursue the programme on a part-time basis.
- I see that it is possible to receive financial aid for the MILE programme. How about the TRAIL+ programme?
All MILE and TRAIL+ applicants are, on request, considered for financial aid. For more information on financial aid, visit the 'Financial Aid' section of our website.
* Article 6 (1) of the Promotionsreglement of the University of Bern Law Faculty stipulates that law students must have received grade 5 or higher in their LL.M. degree to be admitted to the Faculty's PhD programme.