Diplomacy and International Law (Distance Learning) MA

Why Lancaster?

Study at one of the first universities to offer a Master’s in International Law and Diplomacy

Engage with a range of external organisations via Lancaster’s Richardson Institute, the oldest peace and conflict research centre in the UK

Develop your negotiation and diplomacy skills with academics who are researching the latest developments in international law and humanitarian rights

Prepare for future roles in foreign affairs through extensive and complex mock negotiation exercises

Collaborate with the leaders of tomorrow in the Lancaster Security Institute, a centre exploring the intersection of technology, society and behaviour

Coming to an agreement isn’t always easy, especially when dealing with cultural and economic differences surrounding international disputes. This dynamic degree allows you to explore the complexities of foreign diplomacy in the context of international law.

Understanding strategic negotiations

On this engaging programme you’ll gain a deep understanding of diplomacy, foreign policy and international law. You’ll learn to pick apart the strategic and institutional constraints that affect negotiations, and prepare for a future working on the international stage.

You’ll also spend time looking at how diplomatic theory weighs up against the pragmatic issues involved with making decisions. Our mock negotiations will give you the opportunity to put your theory into practice.

Global rules, laws and customs

Balanced with international law, this course delivers tremendous strength in understanding international norms and law. You’ll uncover immunities and jurisdiction, and look into the nuances of state responsibility and dispute settlement.

Through a combination of theoretical and practical exercises, lectures and visits by guest speakers, you’ll explore topics such as nuclear weapons and foreign policy, arms control and diplomacy, international climate negotiations, and terrorism and citizen protection.

A focus on diplomacy

On our Master’s course, you’ll learn about diplomacy and how international law applies to this, and you’ll take a module on Theory and Methods in Postgraduate Research. You’ll bring together everything you’ve learnt in your dissertation.

Distance learning

Distance learning makes it easier to fit your studies around your other commitments as much of the course can be done at a time and place to suit you. We have provided courses via online learning for many years and have a good understanding of the kinds of support our students need.

Your course will combine recorded material, live and interactive lectures, elements to be worked through autonomously, online collaboration and discussion, and group work.

Before the course begins we’ll invite you to an online introductory session. This is a great chance to meet your tutors and other students and to start to form your own support network. We’ll also tell you about our digital services and software, as well as our extensive e-library resources. After this you should be all set to start the course and get the most from your studies.

Students need to have 2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in a relevant discipline. We may also consider non-standard applicants.