Program Overview

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MA Diplomacy and Foreign Policy

Overview

This MA provides a deep understanding of the historical, legal, and theoretical aspects of diplomacy and foreign policymaking, combined with practical, skills-based learning through simulations and real-world applications. It enhances employability by equipping students with analytical and practical skills valued by employers across public and private sectors, preparing them for leadership roles in government, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, and media.

Duration and Entry Year

• Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
• Entry Year: September 2025

Campus and Discipline

• Campus: Streatham Campus
• Discipline: Politics and International Relations

Contact

• Programme Director: Dr. Andrea Ghiselli

UCAS Code and Typical Offer

• UCAS Code: 1234
• Typical Offer: 2:2 Honours degree

Entry Requirements

We will consider applicants with a 2:2 Honours degree or above in their first degree in a relevant subject area. While we normally only consider applicants who meet this criteria, if you are coming from a different academic background which is equivalent to degree level, or have relevant work experience, we would welcome your application.

English Language Requirements for International Students

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2.

Course Content

Diplomacy and foreign policymaking are central to International Relations. Our MA in Diplomacy and Foreign Policy offers both the intellectual foundations and practical skills needed to navigate the core elements of statecraft and global governance in an increasingly complex and unpredictable world. With a clear focus on employability and career development, this programme equips you with the critical analytical tools to assess policies and formulate effective responses in today’s challenging international environment.

The course begins with a comprehensive introduction to the historical, legal, and theoretical dimensions of diplomacy and foreign policymaking, before transitioning to a more practice-oriented module. As part of this applied focus, you will take part in a field trip to London, gaining first-hand exposure to governmental and non-governmental organisations involved in diplomacy and foreign policy.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

• POLM110: Theories of Diplomacy and Foreign Policy (30 credits)
• POLM111: Applied Diplomacy and Foreign Policy (30 credits)
• POLM886: Dissertation (60 credits)

Optional Modules

• POLM503: Foreign Policy Decision-Making (30 credits)
• POLM341: Omnishambles - Global Politics Simulation (30 credits)
• POLM144: The West, Civilisations and World Order (30 credits)
• POLM156: The Transformation of Politics in the Global Age (30 credits)
• POLM344: Empire and Hierarchy in Russia and Eurasia (30 credits)
• POLM082: International Relations of the Middle East (30 credits)
• POLM651: State and Society in the Middle East (30 credits)

Fees

2025/26 Entry

• UK Fees per Year: £12,500 full-time, £6,250 part-time
• International Fees per Year: £25,300 full-time, £12,650 part-time

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year.

Teaching and Research

Teaching takes place over the first two terms leaving the third to concentrate on your dissertation. Our teaching is research-led, ensuring that what you learn will be cutting edge and at the heart of contemporary public debate.

Careers

The MA in Diplomacy and Foreign Policy will open doors to a diverse range of career opportunities, both within and beyond academia. It is particularly suited to individuals aiming to work in international, national, and regional organisations, as well as non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and private sector firms addressing global challenges.

Related Courses

• International Relations MA
• Conflict, Security and Development MA
• International Development MA