Study diplomacy abroad

Diplomacy degrees examine the processes of governmental negotiation and conflict resolution. It’s an interdisciplinary program that includes components of international relations, sociology, psychology, humanities, and law.

As a diplomacy student, you’ll study the key theories, principles, and scholars of the field. You’ll look at how international governments strategically cooperate, coerce, and sanction each other, and how these diplomatic processes affect matters like global trade, security, and climate change. As well as debating the contemporary diplomatic issues, you’ll explore historical dilemmas and milestones in international diplomacy.

Studying abroad is the perfect opportunity to gain first-hand experience in international affairs and global governance. By broadening your cultural horizons, you’ll develop an international perspective that’ll prepare you for a fascinating and fast-paced career in the global arena.

Although rare, it’s possible to study a bachelor’s degree in diplomacy over three or four years. The duration of your course will depend on where you choose to study. These programs provide you with the tools and expertise required for entry-level positions in international organizations, governments, and businesses.

Master’s degrees in international diplomacy are more widely available and popular amongst graduate students. To enroll in these one or two-year courses, you must have a bachelor’s degree under your belt. Most universities prefer this to be in a related field, like international relations, international business, sociology, or another social science.

If you’ve set your sights on earning the highest formal qualification possible, you might consider pursuing a doctoral degree. Research-based PhDs take a minimum of three years, but they can last up to six or seven.

Diplomacy programs are heavily structured around debate, discussion, and role-play. So, as well as attending formal lectures, you’ll have small-sized seminars and workshops where you can share ideas and opinions.

No two diplomacy programs will cover exactly the same content. Each university’s course will reflect its cultural context and the strengths of its faculty. That said, almost all institutions will run core classes in the following:

• Diplomacy theory
• Strategy, diplomacy, and decision making
• Economic diplomacy
• International relations
• Diplomatic history
• Foreign policy analysis
• Negotiation and conflict management
• Global politics and governance

A degree in diplomacy will equip you with the cross-cultural awareness, communication skills, and research capabilities needed to succeed in today’s globalized world.

You can apply your knowledge and talents to roles in international organizations, governments, businesses, charities, and more.

This list below gives you an idea of the most-commonly pursued careers amongst graduates:

• Diplomat
• Foreign service officer
• Policy administrator
• International aid/development worker
• Public affairs consultant
• Government research officer
• Social worker
• Human resources manager

Many international intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations run competitive internship programs for students hoping to break into the field. Your university’s career service can help you apply for these schemes or point you in the direction of other valuable work experience opportunities.