International Relations and Diplomacy Leiden University

Overview

The two-year Advanced MSc International Relations and Diplomacy programme offers you a unique blend of academic education in international relations and political science with practical graduate education and training in international negotiation and diplomacy. The programme is taught jointly by Leiden University’s Institute for Security and Global Affairs, the Institute of Political Science and the Netherlands Institute of International Relations Clingendael.

The location of The Hague is beneficial for this master’s programme in terms of substantive focus and the various links to international institutions located in this city. As one of the partners, Clingendael’s objective is to promote the understanding of international affairs, and the institute devotes special attention to European co-operation, international security, and diplomacy.

In the current era of global interdependence, collaborative efforts are needed to meet the most pressing challenges in international politics, security and economics. Increased transnational channels of communication, global trade and capital flows characterise an increasingly interconnected world of both nation states and non-state actors. The resulting challenges to global governance can be met most effectively by patterns of international and transnational co-operation and diplomacy.

What you will learn

The International Relations and Diplomacy programme gives you a unique combination: a thorough academic education in international relations and political science with practice-based training in international negotiation and diplomacy.

In view of the range of courses the students attend, their analytical and research skills, possible internship experience, master’s thesis, and contact with experts in relevant fields, graduates of this programme possess a high level of academic education and preparation for relevant positions in international organisations, international politics, and diplomacy. The programme also aims to prepare students for possible continued academic training within the framework of a doctoral programme.

The MSc IRD prepares you specifically for a career in international diplomacy, international government and non-governmental organisations, national or international public administration, ‘think tanks’ and research institutions, international interest associations or international business.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc in IRD currently hold a variety of managerial and consultancy positions within diplomatic and international relations organisations such as national and international ministries, as well as private organisations.

Accreditation

Accredited by NVAO, the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders.