Diplomacy and International Law 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.

2:1 degree in a related subject is normally required. We will also consider applications where you have a degree in other subjects, have a 2:2 or equivalent result and/or extensive relevant experience. In these cases, you should clearly demonstrate how your experience and skills have prepared you for postgraduate study.