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Survey of International Organizations

Dates: July 1 – 19, 2025

Credits:
6

Cost: $7,950 USD

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Gain Insider Access to Global Insights

Survey of International Organizations (SIO) is the perfect way to dive into the world of international diplomacy while studying abroad. This program gives you an inside look at how global organizations work, from tackling economic and political challenges to addressing humanitarian issues. 

You will also have the chance to engage with world leaders in government, non-government organizations, and nonprofits. Past guest speakers include senior ambassadors from Ukraine, Canada, and Switzerland, influential figures from the U.S. State Department, executives of major global corporations, and even a Nobel Peace Prize winner.

Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and study trips, you’ll explore topics in political science, international relations, economics, and international law. Plus, you’ll gain valuable insights from visits to organizations like the World Trade Organization, the European Court of Human Rights, the United Nations, and the European Parliament. Locations vary year to year.

If you are passionate about global issues and want to see firsthand how diplomacy really works, this course will give you the tools to understand and analyze the role of international organizations in global relations today.

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Base Schedule

Pre-departure: Readings and online assignments to prepare for coursework abroad.

Weeks 1 & 3: Fribourg, Switzerland

  • On-campus lectures, discussions, and guest speakers
  • Day trips to international organizations
  • Evenings and weekends free for homework and independent exploration

Week 2: France and Belgium

  • Overnight travel to through Belgium and France
  • Private study visits to major international organizations and historic landmarks

Study-visit locations include:

  • United Nations
  • UN High Commissioner for Refugees
  • International Labor Organization
  • World Trade Organization
  • World Intellectual Property Organization
  • European Union Parliament
  • Council of Europe
  • European Court of Human Rights

Academic Credit, Fully Insured

Fribourg Institute's International Security Studies program is accredited through University of Fribourg, a premiere university of Switzerland. Credits earned are transferable to your home institution.

All participating students are insured for in-country travel and medical emergencies through CISI Insurance company, used by top U.S. institutions for study abroad programming. Costs for coverage is included in the program free quoted above.

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