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The MSc in Diplomacy & International Security is designed for graduates from diverse academic disciplines to develop specialized knowledge in a crucial field of global affairs. It also caters to professionals seeking career advancement in roles demanding expertise in diplomatic relations, historical contexts, and security challenges. Diplomacy and International Security represent some of the most urgent global concerns, and this program stands out by providing historical insights into modern dilemmas while fostering deep diplomatic understanding. Students explore critical international security topics and analyze matters of significant contemporary relevance.This multidisciplinary program leverages the academic strengths of the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences, allowing students to choose courses from History, the School of Government & Public Policy, and the Law School. With connections to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office as well as Edinburgh's Consular Missions, participants benefit from interactions with experienced diplomatic and foreign policy experts.
Program Highlights:
The MSc in Diplomacy & International Security immerses students in both current and historical aspects of the field through political, legal, and historical lenses. The curriculum combines mandatory and elective courses, with core classes concentrating on diplomatic theory and practice while developing essential research capabilities. Students undertake an independent historical research project culminating in a dissertation.Two core modules form the foundation, complemented by optional courses across departments, creating a rich interdisciplinary learning environment.Career Pathways:
Graduates gain qualifications for professional opportunities in:government (national or international bodies like the EU or UN)
NGOs
global institutions
media
policy research organizations
legal practices
The program's research-intensive nature also prepares students for advanced postgraduate work in:historical studies
political science
global affairs
legal studies
security analysis
For non-academic career paths, the research training proves valuable for policy analysis, public service, and nonprofit sector roles.
First or upper second-class Honours degree, or overseas equivalent, in humanities, social sciences/law subjects or substantial professional experience.
English language requirements:
IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall (no individual band less than 5.5)
TOEFL (IBT): 80 overall, with the following minimum scores in each component: Listening: 17 Reading: 18 Speaking: 20 Writing: 18.