University of Geneva

What you'll study

The programme covers both the physical and financial dimensions of commodity trading, combining market fundamentals with applied tools and casework. Teaching emphasises real-world transactions, risk management and legal frameworks that underpin trade.

• Market fundamentals: supply and demand drivers, price formation and the role of futures and spot markets across energy, metals and agricultural commodities.
• Derivatives and structuring: forwards, futures, options and swaps; hedging strategies and basic structuring of commodity trades.
• Risk management: market, counterparty, credit and operational risk, including quantitative and qualitative mitigation techniques.
• Trade finance and documentation: letters of credit, payment terms, incoterms, risk transfer and standard trading documentation.
• Logistics and operations: shipping, storage, pooling, quality and priory inspection issues that affect physical delivery chains.
• Regulation and compliance: AML/KYC, sanctions screening, regulatory obligations for traders and intermediaries.
• Sustainability and ESG considerations: carbon pricing, decarbonisation pathways and how environmental and social factors shape commodity strategies.
• Practical workshops and case studies: simulated trades, negotiation exercises and price risk casework to develop applied skills.
• Project or professional assignment: participants normally complete a practical project that demonstrates applied knowledge to a real or simulated trading problem.

Entry requirements

The CAS is aimed at professionals and graduates who want focused training in commodity markets. Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic preparedness and/or relevant professional experience.

• A recognised undergraduate degree (bachelor) or equivalent professional qualifications; applicants with substantial relevant work experience may also be considered.
• Experience in commodities, finance, logistics, law, or a related sector is advantageous; many participants combine study with ongoing employment.
• Proficiency in English is required for participation in lectures and assessments; knowledge of French is helpful in the local market but not normally mandatory.
• Application documents typically include a CV, a motivation letter and academic transcripts; shortlisted candidates may be interviewed.

Career prospects

Graduates use the CAS to accelerate or redirect careers within the commodity ecosystem. The mix of practical training and market knowledge is designed to be immediately applicable.

• Commodity trader or desk assistant in trading houses and merchant firms.
• Risk analyst or risk manager focused on commodity exposures.
• Trade finance specialist in banks or specialised finance providers.
• Operations, logistics or shipping coordinator within trading or supply-chain companies.
• Compliance officer or trade documentation specialist supporting cross-border transactions.
• Market analyst, broker, or consultant advising on commodity strategy and pricing.

Why study at University of Geneva

The University of Geneva combines academic rigor with proximity to one of the world’s major commodity hubs. The programme benefits from faculty with applied expertise and guest lecturers drawn from the trading and finance community.

• Strategic location: Geneva’s concentration of trading houses, banks and service providers offers networking and professional contacts.
• Applied focus: courses emphasise practical tools, case studies and projects that reflect real market challenges.
• Interdisciplinary environment: access to university resources in economics, law and international relations supports a rounded understanding of market drivers and regulation.
• Flexible format: the CAS is structured for working professionals, combining intensive modules and practical assignments to fit alongside employment.