International Diplomacy MSc

COURSE SUMMARY

As the global concerns in our modern world continue to evolve, with climate change, covid-19, security issues, migration and more, so too must the strategies, tactics and people involved in the associated decision making.

Our MSc International Diplomacy reflects the changing nature of international political relations between states, organisations and citizens that recognises more broader forms of international cooperation and coalition building, providing insight into cutting-edge theories of diplomacy in contemporary settings.

It offers a critical examination of the evolving field of diplomatic relations and why it matters, focusing on both traditional and non-traditional diplomatic actors and practices. This includes non-governmental organisations (NGOs) like the Red Cross, Greenpeace, Oxfam, or Amnesty International, and corporate companies like Microsoft or Goldman Sachs.

Keele was one of the first universities in the UK to offer a degree in international relations over 50 years ago and has a longstanding reputation as one of the country’s foremost centres for political studies.

Sharing experiences and studying alongside students from all the world, you’ll become part of a dynamic academic community, which benefits from small class sizes, strong student-staff relations and expert research supervision.

The flexible structure of the course – giving you a choice of four optional modules – provides a high degree of focus, enabling you to engage with subjects of interest and relevance. As well as the in-depth research carried out for your dissertation, the action research project allows you to investigate a specific issue or topic.

We also offer stimulating programme of extra-curricular seminars and workshops, which provide important opportunities for learning, networking and collegial debate on contemporary political and global issues. Previous high profile speakers have included the High Commissioner of the Republic of Maldives discussing diplomacy and climate change, and the Ministry of Defence’s Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence on the challenges of assessing intelligence.

The course is likely to be of interest to a wide range of graduates and professionals interested in pursuing research or professional careers related to development, social policy, governance, diplomacy, advocacy, security and communications. The MRes in particular, with its greater focus on research, provides an excellent foundation for further research, doctoral (PhD) training or academia, here in the UK, Europe or the rest of the world.

YOUR CAREER

Preparing you to analyse international affairs and contribute to the development of better world relations, you could work for a political party, campaign or lobby group or pursue advisory and management roles in central or local government, charities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), international organisations, social research organisations, think tanks and universities.

Specialist routes include: diplomacy; public policy; development politics; conflict resolution and mediation; human rights and social justice; environmental politics; sustainable development; international law; international security; and cross-cultural communication.

The advanced research and cross-cultural communication skills you develop on this course, together with a critical insight into global concerns, politics, economics, governance and advocacy, place you in an excellent position to pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and voluntary sectors.

You should have a first or a good second-class honours degree or it's equivalent. Your undergraduate degree should be in a related subject.