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Originally from Brazil, Rayanna Gamper developed a passion for international law while pursuing a law degree locally. As an undergraduate, she was immediately drawn to the specialisation’s impact on human rights, trade, and environmental protection. “My passion for international law stems from its ability to address diverse global challenges and its dynamic evolving nature,” she says.
To deepen her expertise, Gamper decided to travel across the Atlantic to pursue a Master’s in International Law (MIL) in Switzerland — specifically at the Law School of the University of St.Gallen (HSG).
She was particularly attracted to HSG for its interdisciplinary approach, which aligned with her goal of transitioning seamlessly between legal and corporate roles. “St.Gallen’s reputation for academic excellence and its global alumni network made it the ideal programme to support my career aspirations,” she adds.
And that’s precisely what it did. Today, Gamper applies the skills she gained at HSG as a legal specialist at an ESG consulting firm in Zurich. “The MIL programme equipped me with advanced expertise in corporate governance, environmental law, and business and human rights, as well as the critical skills necessary to tackle complex ESG challenges and deliver impactful solutions to clients,” she says.
Video: Campus tour with a current Master in International Law student
Such outcomes are typical of those trained by a Law School committed to the highest standards of teaching and research.
Nestled at the foothills of the Swiss Alps, this division is housed within HSG — a triple crown-accredited institution known for its top-tier programmes. The Law School draws from this reputation, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to navigate global legal systems and confidently pursue careers in international law, diplomacy, and business.
Its MIL programme is well-established, spanning three semesters and requiring 90 ECTS credits to graduate. While the primary focus is international law, it also ensures that students master the ins and outs of general law, governance, and business. This multi-disciplinary approach is achieved through a mix of mandatory courses and elective options.
Students must complete three core courses — “The International Legal Order,” “Foundations of International and European Business and Economic Law,” and “Global Governance.” Alongside these, the MIL offers electives covering law, management, and political science — depending on students’ interests and career goals.
“This degree programme builds a solid base for anyone aspiring to be an international lawyer while also offering the broader HSG infrastructure to pivot into business, diplomacy, or human rights,” says student Ritwik Dwivedi from India.
The MIL offers exceptional academic flexibility through its double degree programme. Students can choose to pursue a double degree with the Fletcher School at Tufts University in the US or combine the MIL with the one-year CEMS Master in International Management (MIM) programme. These are two distinct opportunities, which allow students to tailor their international education to their goals.
Dwivedi, who participated in the double degree programme with Fletcher, describes it as a “game-changer.”
“I spent one semester in Massachusetts and gained a lifetime’s worth of academic and professional insights,” he says. “Fletcher also offered diverse courses in diplomacy, public policy, national security and foreign policy law, while cross-registration at Harvard Law School allowed me to build capabilities in cross-border M&A negotiations.”
Indeed, the programme’s flexibility enhances learning experiences. Students can even select courses from the other master’s programmes across HSG. “Our university’s offer is traditionally strong in business and economics and is growing in computer science, which students can benefit from,” explains Thomas Burri, Professor of International Law and European Law.
Dwivedi has significantly benefited from this access. As a law student, he found HSG’s business school training workshops, courses, and development projects ideal for building his startup and business management skills. “Having courses on life skill development, economics, political science, and business innovation is a luxury not many universities can offer their students,” he says. “HSG is truly unique in that aspect.”
A view of the picturesque, winterly St. Gallen town. Source: University of St. Gallen
Learning from distinguished faculty
Regardless of how students customise their MIL journey, they are all granted access to a remarkable, diverse faculty. These experts, with extensive backgrounds in international law, academia, government, and international organisations, breathe life into classrooms, lacing sessions with real-world relevance.
The MIL’s three core courses are taught by senior HSG scholars they focus on helping students develop strong analytical skills and empowering them to critically assess complex legal issues.
Gamper confirms this, stating: “They enriched the theoretical concepts we learned in class. Their mentorship provided clarity and guidance in shaping my career path, helping me connect with opportunities that align with my skills and aspirations.”
Learn more about mastering international law at the University of St. Gallen.
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