
Diplomacy is a practice that enables negotiations between nations' representatives and international entities. It focuses on effective communication, compromise, and relationship-building to achieve goals and peacefully resolve disputes. Those interested in a career in diplomacy should consider studying for a degree in political science, international relations, international law, economics, or business. Many universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in diplomacy, which can lead to a variety of careers in diplomatic and government service, international organisations, international business, journalism, law, and banking. Online courses are also available for those who wish to study diplomacy remotely.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Degree type | Masters, Bachelor's |
| Specialisations | Diplomatic Law, International Relations, Diplomatic History, International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, International Law, Public Diplomacy and Global Communications |
| Skills gained | Negotiation, conflict resolution, critical thinking, collaboration, compromise, relationship-building, communication, management, analysis |
| Topics covered | Negotiation techniques, management skills in international organisations, history of diplomacy, migration, regional integration, ethical issues in international relations, social sciences, international economics, international political system, international trade law, human rights law, laws of war, international business, public administration, public relations, international terrorism, climate change, violent conflict |
| Career options | Government, international organisations, law, business, journalism, graduate study in political science, diplomatic and government service, international business, banking, international law, politics, corporate business, non-profit organisations |
| Institutions | Institute for the Study of Diplomacy, DiploFoundation, University of New York in Prague, Prague University of Economics and Business |
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What You'll Learn

International Relations and Diplomacy
Students of international relations and diplomacy will explore the relationships between countries, the evolving roles of states, and the interplay of governmental and non-governmental organisations. They will delve into academic and public policy, economics, international law, and cultural studies. The curriculum often covers international economic relations, highlighting the theoretical and applied problems of international economics and economic diplomacy.
A degree in international relations and diplomacy equips graduates with a comprehensive understanding of global politics and economics, fostering a deep appreciation for diverse cultures. This knowledge prepares them to navigate the complex dynamics of international relations, including matters of trade, economics, peace and war, the environment, and human rights.
Students interested in pursuing a career in international relations and diplomacy can choose from a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. A background in political science or international relations is often advantageous, providing a strong foundation for further specialisation. Some universities, such as the University of New York in Prague, offer a Bachelor's degree in International and Diplomatic Studies, while others provide multi-disciplinary programmes in International Studies.
Master's degrees in International Relations and Diplomacy are also widely available, focusing on negotiation and management skills in international organisations, the history of diplomacy, migration, regional integration, ethical issues, and the application of social sciences in international relations. These programmes often emphasise economic diplomacy and statecraft, addressing the challenges of operating in diverse markets.
Additionally, online platforms like DiploFoundation offer specialised courses in digital diplomacy and global governance, enhancing students' understanding of the evolving nature of diplomacy in the digital age.
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Diplomatic Law
Curriculum and Coursework
The curriculum for Diplomatic Law varies depending on the university and programme level. However, some common topics covered include international law, negotiation techniques, conflict resolution, international relations, and human rights. For example, the MA in Diplomacy and International Law at AUP offers a dynamic curriculum that combines international relations theory with legal advocacy skills. It includes modules such as the Hague Practicum, French War College Practicum, and the Summer Institute for Human Rights, providing students with a unique skill set for advocating global justice.
At Lancaster University, the Diplomacy and International Law MA programme offers a blend of theoretical and practical understanding. Students explore contemporary issues in diplomacy, foreign policy, and international law. They participate in mock negotiation exercises, guest lectures, and in-class activities led by practitioners, covering topics like nuclear weapons, arms control, international climate negotiations, and citizen protection.
Skills and Career Opportunities
Studying Diplomatic Law provides individuals with a diverse set of skills, including negotiation, conflict resolution, critical thinking, and legal reasoning. These skills are highly valued in various sectors, such as government, international organisations, non-profits, business, and international advocacy. Graduates may pursue careers as diplomats, foreign service officers, policy analysts, international development workers, or continue their studies in law.
Online and Hybrid Programmes
For those seeking flexibility, there are online and hybrid programmes available, such as the MA in International Law and Diplomacy offered by UNITAR. This programme allows students to specialise in the interface between international law and diplomacy, broadening their knowledge and equipping them with skills for international careers.
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International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
The University of Kent, for instance, offers an MA in International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution. The course takes 12 months to complete as a full-time student and can be studied part-time over two years. The programme covers both traditional approaches to conflict management and the scientific study of conflict and cooperation. Students develop essential negotiation and mediation skills through lectures, seminars, role-playing, and practical exercises. They also gain a deeper understanding of conflict resolution processes, including the root causes of conflict and various methods for addressing disputes.
Columbia University's School of Professional Studies offers a Master of Science in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution. The programme focuses on developing self-awareness, tenacity, and interpersonal competency, as well as practical negotiation and conflict resolution skills in various settings. Students learn to analyse the root causes and dynamics of conflict and apply reasoned and resourceful interventions for dispute transformation. The university provides exclusive events, mentorship, career guidance, and internship opportunities to complement the academic curriculum.
The Fletcher School also offers a programme in International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, examining the causes of violent conflict in an international context. The curriculum covers theories of intergroup and ethnonational conflicts, international dimensions of intrastate conflicts, and various approaches to conflict resolution, including negotiation, mediation, and problem-solving techniques. The school's courses explore additional topics such as gender, culture, development, and religion, and their relation to conflict and its resolution.
These programmes empower graduates to influence international policies, promote peace, and contribute to global cooperation. They develop highly qualified specialists and analysts with the skills to navigate complex political issues, negotiate international agreements, and resolve disputes across diverse contexts.
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International Law
Several universities offer degrees that combine diplomacy and international law, allowing students to benefit from the interdisciplinary nature of the fields. For instance, the American University of Paris (AUP) offers a one-year MA in Diplomacy and International Law. The program is designed to provide students with a solid grounding in international relations theory and practice, as well as the analytical tools for legal advocacy. It offers a range of cross-disciplinary courses, including international relations, law, global ethics, conflict resolution, and human rights. AUP's degree is unique in that it situates diplomacy within the international legal framework. The program includes professional modules such as the Hague Practicum and the Summer Institute for Human Rights, which provide students with practical skills and extensive contacts in the field.
Lancaster University also offers an MA in Diplomacy and International Law. This program focuses on the intersection of diplomacy and international law, examining how international law applies to diplomacy and foreign policy. Students will take modules on theory and methods in postgraduate research, international human rights, and counter-terrorism case studies. The Law School at Lancaster University is home to lawyers and research-active academics who teach on areas closely aligned with their own research interests.
In addition to these universities, the University of Arcadia offers a major in International Relations, Diplomacy, and Law, which provides students with real-world knowledge of international affairs. This program offers a clear path to the Master's program in International Relations and Diplomacy at the American Graduate School in Paris. UNITAR and UPEACE also offer an MA in International Law and Diplomacy, with an optional field visit to Geneva, Switzerland, and/or The Hague, Netherlands, to immerse students in the heart of diplomacy and international law.
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Public Diplomacy and Global Communications
One such program is the Master's in Public Diplomacy and Global Communications offered by Syracuse University. This program is a member of the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA) and combines multidisciplinary, policy-oriented, and intercultural studies with career development. Students will study policy and communications, developing skills in public diplomacy, public affairs, and national and international politics. The program includes a "boot camp" summer session that covers the fundamentals of public diplomacy, communications, and graphic design. Students also spend a semester in Washington, D.C., gaining practical experience through internships and engaging with guest speakers.
Another option is the Master of Arts in Global Communication offered by the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University. This program prepares students for a broad range of career paths, including diplomacy, public service, business, security, conflict resolution, development, and public health. It offers a unique collaboration between the Elliott School of International Affairs and the School of Media and Public Affairs, providing a distinctive educational experience that intersects media and politics. The program's location in Foggy Bottom, close to organizations like the State Department, offers a competitive advantage with opportunities to engage with diplomats and guest speakers.
The University of Florida also offers a program in Global Strategic Communications | Diplomacy in the Digital Age. This program recognizes the impact of digital communication channels on government strategies in the 21st century and the challenges of disinformation. Students in this program will learn to master the art of crafting messages for worldwide audiences and engaging people from diverse cultures.
These programs in Public Diplomacy and Global Communications provide students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to pursue careers in various sectors, including government, international organizations, private businesses, and nonprofits. They offer a solid foundation for those seeking to make an impact in the dynamic field of global communications and diplomacy.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several universities that offer bachelor's degrees in diplomacy, including the University of New York in Prague, which offers a course in Diplomacy and International Law, and the Prague University of Economics and Business, which offers a Bachelor of Arts in International and Diplomatic Studies.
There are many universities offering master's degrees in diplomacy, including the Schiller program in International Relations and Diplomacy, and the Public and Cultural Diplomacy Master’s program. You can also study a master's in diplomacy online.
Degrees that are useful for a career in diplomacy include political science, international relations, law, business, journalism, and economics.

























