EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies

Overview

Why study the Master of Arts in EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies at the College of Europe, Bruges campus?

The accredited EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies programme of the College of Europe provides expertise in all aspects of the EU's external relations (foreign and security policy, trade, development, international financial relations, immigration, asylum, etc.), the EU's external representation and relations with major countries and regions in the world as well as certain professional skills such as political risk analysis, Public Relations, impact assessment or project management. Students thus learn to understand the multifaceted international role of the EU in connection with the functioning of the complex EU system, and they acquire the sound theoretical and practical knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of careers in national, European and international affairs.

First Semester

In the first semester, starting in mid-September, students follow several compulsory courses. They ensure the necessary background with regard to the political, legal and economic aspects of the EU’s external relations and the practice of modern diplomacy. In addition, an introductory course is offered on EU institutions and decision-making.

Second Semester

In the second semester, starting in January, students choose among a range of optional courses. They explore in depth selected topics that were broadly introduced to them during the compulsory courses, thus giving them the opportunity to study specific areas of interest more closely and interactively.The selected courses cover at least three of the folllowing thematic clusters: "security, justice and values ", "foreign economic relations and sustainable development ", "bi- and multilateral diplomacy" and "professional skills".