MA/PGDip International Studies and Diplomacy (2019 Entry)

Overview:

Who is this programme for?

The MA/PGDip International Studies and Diplomacy (ISD) programme is designed for those engaged in, or planning to embark upon, a professional career requiring international expertise in government, not-for-profit, corporate or academic environments.

ISD aims to prepare students for a variety of roles, such as working within a Foreign Service or other government department; international civil service (such as the United Nations or European Union); international NGOs (working in fields such as development, humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution); multinational corporations and international media. The programme also suits those engaged in or considering research roles within a policy think tank, risk analysis organisation or doctoral programme and seeking to deepen their academic and practical understanding of international affairs and contemporary diplomatic practice.

The programme has a multi-disciplinary structure and draws on the teaching and research strengths of CISD and of the SOAS departments of International Politics, Law, Economics and area studies (especially of Asia, Africa and the Middle East) as well as a wide range of languages. Students choose a combination of modules to meet their specific professional needs and personal interests.

Students on this course will have the opportunity to participate in CISD's Study Tour of Geneva. Programme Objectives

• Excellent inter-disciplinary understanding of key concepts, theories and debates in the study of international affairs
• Excellent knowledge of international policy debates and principle issues from perspectives of both the global North and South
• Ability to undertake critical analysis of contemporary international policy issues and challenges
• Development of module specific practical skills such as policy analysis and policy advocacy, negotiation, mediation, communication and media relations.

We welcome applications from academically strong individuals from a wide variety of fields and backgrounds; however, it is not necessary to have a first degree in a discipline directly related to the programme.

Each application is assessed on its individual merits and entry requirements may be modified in light of relevant professional experience and where the applicant can demonstrate a sustained practical interest in the international field.

• Overview duration: MA: One calendar year (full time). Two or three years (part time). PGDip: One academic year (full time). Two academic years (part time).
• Fees 2019/20 UK/EU fees:

Interested Students.

Structure:

Students take taught modules to the value of 180 credits plus 15,000 word dissertation:

• One 30 credit module or two 15 credit modules from A
• Two 30 credit modules or four 15 credit modules from A or B
• One 30 credit module or two 15 credit modules from A, B or C
• Dissertation (compulsory) on a topic related to the programme's core themes
• Postgraduate Diploma candidates take modules as the MA, excluding the dissertation.

Our mission is to inspire the next generation to develop ideas for a fairer and more sustainable world. We welcome the brightest minds from over 130 different countries, creating a community that is diverse, vibrant and multinational. From day one at our central London campus, our students are encouraged to challenge conventional views and think globally – and that’s one of the reasons why they develop careers that make a real difference. A SOAS student is typically passionate about their subject, opts to learn a second language, loves to learn, to travel, to be surprised; and is interested and engaged with the world around them.