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Explore a world of opportunity with a WTI degree

Leading interdisciplinary graduate programs at the intersection of international trade, investment, law, political science and economics

The World Trade Institute (WTI) is a global leader in interdisciplinary graduate education at the intersection of international trade, investment, law, and economics. As a center of excellence at the University of Bern, we offer a dynamic academic environment where students gain both theoretical depth and practical insight.

Our programs are designed for aspiring professionals and scholars seeking to engage with the complex challenges of global economic governance. With instruction from world-class academics and practitioners, WTI graduates join a global network shaping the future of trade and investment policy.

The WTI offers two internationally renowned graduate programs that provide advanced, interdisciplinary training in international trade, investment, and economic governance. These programs take place in the setting of a one-year intensive graduate program, taught by top scholars and practitioners from leading universities, international organizations, think tanks, and law firms. Students earn 90 ECTS credits and gain the skills to tackle complex trade and investment challenges. Graduates join a global alumni network of 600+ members. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Intake is every September; early bird applications are due December 1, and the regular deadline is January 31. Tuition: CHF 21,000.

Established in 1999, MILE is the flagship program of the World Trade Institute. It is designed for students and professionals with a background in law, economics, international relations or political science, who wish to broaden their knowledge of international trade and investment. The program uniquely combines a multidisciplinary perspective with a strong applied focus.

TRAIL+ is specially designed for students and professionals with a legal background interested in specializing in international economic law with an interdisciplinary outlook on the global economy and trade policy. This program is offered at the World Trade Institute in cooperation with the Faculty of Law of the University of Bern. Upon successful conclusion of the TRAIL+ program, you are awarded an LL.M. in International Trade and Investment Law and a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) in International Law and Economics.

Master Programs

MILE - Master of Advanced Studies in International Law and Economics

The MILE program, WTI’s flagship since 1999, is designed for students and professionals in law, economics, international relations, or political science seeking a deeper understanding of global trade and investment. The curriculum blends legal, economic, and policy perspectives with real-world application.

TRAIL+ LL.M. in International Trade and Investment Law & Diploma in International Law and Economics

TRAIL+ is tailored for legal professionals aiming to specialize in international economic law with a broader understanding of trade and policy. Offered jointly with the University of Bern Faculty of Law, graduates receive both an LL.M. and a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS).

Key information at a glance

Course Catalogue

The World Trade Institute at the University of Bern offers comprehensive, interdisciplinary courses designed especially for graduate students, professionals, and doctoral researchers in the fields of international trade, investment, and economic governance.

FAQ

Browse our FAQs to find quick answers about the graduate programs at the World Trade Institute.

Living in Bern

Studying at the World Trade Institute means experiencing life in Bern—Switzerland’s capital and one of Europe’s most charming and livable cities.

Financial support

Learn how to make your academic and professional development more accessible.

WTI Alumni Network

Whether you're seeking career advice, international collaboration, or peer support, the WTI’s global network is here to support you—long after your studies are complete. Learn more about our vibrant alumni network with more than 600 members around the world.

Executive and Professional Education at the World Trade Institute

The World Trade Institute Academy

The WTI offers specialized training in various aspects of international trade and policy. The WTI Academy offers an interdisciplinary learning experience. The Academy consists of a series of short courses throughout the academic year.

Further Education

The World Trade Institute offers flexible and high-quality continuing education opportunities through its Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) and Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) programs in International Law and Economics.

Executive Education

At the World Trade Institute, we offer tailor-made executive education courses and programs designed to meet the evolving needs of professionals and institutions working in international trade, investment, and economic governance.

Graduate School of Economic Globalization and Integration at the World Trade Institute

Doctoral Program

The Graduate School of Economic Globalization and Integration at the World Trade Institute, University of Bern, offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment for doctoral research at the intersection of law, economics, and political science.

Visiting Research Fellows

The World Trade Institute offers a unique opportunity for academics to expand their research and collaborate with global experts by joining us as Visiting Research Fellows.

Latest news, publications, blogs and research from the World Trade Institute

Congratulations to WTI Alumna Teresa Mera on Her Appointment as Peru’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism

The World Trade Institute (WTI) extends its warmest congratulations to Teresa Stella Mera Gómez, alumna of the Master’s in International Law and Economics programme at the University of Bern, on her appointment as Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru.

Hidden Jewel in the Crown: Role of WTO committees in dispute resolution

The WTO's Dispute Settlement Body has been regarded as the WTO's crown jewel, bringing stability and predictability to the resolution of disputes among WTO Members. But what about the other jewels in the crown?

Globalization in Latin America

The Law, Politics and Economics of Preferential Trade Agreements. Edited by Manfred Elsig, Rodrigo Polanco and Andrew Lugg.

The WTI Blog – Insights, Ideas & Impact

Dive into expert commentary, behind-the-scenes updates, and thought-provoking articles from the World Trade Institute community. Our blog features insights from our professors faculty, alumni, and guest contributors on global trade, sustainable development, international affairs, digital governance, and more.

Media

The latest about the World Trade Institute in the news.

Alumni stories

Be inspired by where a WTI education can take you. Our alumni are at the heart of the World Trade Institute’s global impact.

Research projects

Explore our ongoing and past projects to see how WTI research contributes to impact at both policy and practice levels.

News and events

Stay up to date with the World Trade Institute's events and news.