About SAA
The Swiss Arbitration Academy (SAA) is a private institution founded and directed by a group of arbitration practitioners, including attorneys and professors, to provide professional and practical training in arbitration. International Arbitration requires a number of skills. A preferred location for international arbitration like Switzerland is apt to provide education of the highest level. The SAA offers a Certificate of Advanced studies (CAS) in arbitration in collaboration with the Universities of Luzern & Neuchâtel as well as a Practitioner’s diploma in arbitration (ArbP). The courses are open to lawyers, in-house counsel, advanced students and other professionals with an interest in international arbitration. For professionals who do not have a legal background, prior experience with arbitration is recommendable.
Why is the SAA different from other programs?
At the Swiss Arbitration Academy, we understand the need for practical training and offer a program, that has a distinctive practice-oriented approach. We aim to teach participants what cannot be learned from books alone, namely:
by teaching all relevant aspects of arbitral proceedings form preparation and client handling to the final award
by analyzing all aspects from the counsel’s as well as the arbitrator’s perspective
In addition, we invite more than 20 experienced guest practitioners to participate in different modules and to assist and coach students in various exercises.
How do we adapt to the current travel restrictions?
The faculty of the Academy has developed an online program for the CAS and the ArbP which will be offered, for the first time, in 2021 on a virtual basis only.
Do not miss this amazing opportunity to take part in these programs without the burden of travel and with the benefit of exceptionally low tuition fees due to Covid.
Provided that the pandemic situation allows to do so, the SAA organizes a 1-2 day live networking experience in Switzerland.
The modules
While the first module provides an in-depth introduction to the fundamental features and the law of international arbitration, the following three modules cover practical issues on the basis of a mock arbitration case.
Every module day, one or two renowned international guest speakers are invited to share their experiences and insights with a limited group of participants (approx. 20 persons). The unique blend of in-depth theory with a large range of practical tips and interactive drafting and pleading exercises, ensures an all-round preparation for a career as arbitrator and/or counsel.
After the four-module training, participants will have acquired knowledge and valuable insights into how arbitration is conducted by counsel and arbitrators.
How to apply
In order to apply to one of the SAA postgraduate courses, please forward your CV, motivation letter and supporting documents to info@saa-switzerland.ch.
