Snapshot

Minimum GPA: 3.00

Terms and Dates:

  • Spring 2025
  • Spring 2026
    January 12, 2026 to June 29, 2026

Advisor:

Brianna Brown

Cornell Affiliations:

Global Learning

Off-campus partner:

Boston University Study Abroad

Overview

Only open in first round of applications

Only eligible as preferred program

Opportunity Description

Learn more about the application process and deadlines for each round.

In cooperation with CERN and the University of Geneva, the BU Geneva Physics program brings students directly to the cutting edge of modern physics.

What is unique about this program?

  • Work with the world's leading physicists to explore the universe on the level of its most basic constituent particles.
  • Take classes designed by Boston University's Physics and French departments as well as coursework at the University of Geneva
  • Two semesters of college French required.

What is unique about this location?

From the CERN website: Geneva is the home of CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research where physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. They use the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter – the fundamental particles. The particles are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives the physicists clues about how the particles interact and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

The instruments used at CERN are purpose-built particle accelerators and detectors. Accelerators boost beams of particles to high energies before the beams are made to collide with each other or with stationary targets. Detectors observe and record the results of these collisions.

Founded in 1954, the CERN laboratory sits astride the Franco-Swiss border near Geneva. It was one of Europe's first joint ventures and now has 22 member states.

How do I learn about Boston University Study Abroad?

  • Browse their FAQ page to learn more about studying abroad with BU
  • Visit BU's Health and Safety page to learn more about their health and safety policies and emergency precautions

Things to Consider Before Applying

  • Review the information on the Education Abroad Office’s Get Started page for important considerations on academics and finances, and a guide to next steps
  • Find answers on the Education Abroad website for Cornell study abroad policy, health, and safety updates
  • Connect with past participants to learn more about the on-site experience.
  • Still have questions?  Visit the Get Advice page and learn how to connect with an Education Abroad Advisor
  • Want to keep up to date with Cornellians Abroad? Follow Education Abroad on social media, @Global_Cornell

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a two-step process. For more information, visit Apply for Semester and Year on the Education Abroad website. 

  1. For Cornell Approval, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are reviewed by Education Abroad. See timeline. Students who secure a space follow Step 2. 

  1. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section on this page by the external deadline. (Note: This deadline will differ from the general Cornell deadline for approval.)