Course Overview
Course summary
Global issues and challenges, such as armed conflicts, terrorism, global warming and environmental degradation, economic inequality and injustice, migration, religious and cultural discord, have gained increased prominence, as have the range of actors and stakeholders at global, national and local level engaged in diplomatic activity to address them. Negotiated solutions are increasingly in demand and so are professionals with the knowledge and skills to engage effectively in diplomatic activity in a diverse and contested world.
The Diplomacy and Global Politics MA is designed to equip you with the theoretical and practical knowledge of international relations and the art of negotiation required at a global stage. As a diplomatic stakeholder, you'll be at the centre of forging crucial ties, resolving crises, shaping events and witnessing history in the making.
This course is for recent graduates and early career professionals who wish to improve their knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of contemporary diplomacy and global politics, enhance their professional skills and advance their careers. It also provides a strong foundation for those who wish to engage in further study of diplomacy, diplomatic innovation, and the study of global politics and governance, as well as bilateral, multilateral, and multi-stakeholder negotiations.
Top reasons to study with us:
- As part of this course, we arrange visits to international organisations based abroad, some of which in the past have included NATO’s HQ in Brussels, the European Commission and the European Parliament
- You'll also have access to Westminster Policy Skills Lab, delivered by officials from the European Commission and other institutions, where you can learn industry-specific skills in a simulated work environment. It also includes job seeking, application writing and interview training advice and guidance with individualised feedback for those interested in UN, EU or NGO jobs
- Opportunities for part-time work, placements and work-related learning activities are widely available to students
- The course is taught at our Central London campus, offering easy access to the Westminster Parliament, foreign embassies, consulates, and other international institutions
Course structure
The programme is taught by academics and practitioners, who are experts in the field, with significant expertise and reputation for exploring and interrogating issues related to diplomacy, global politics and power. Our core modules give a strong foundation in diplomacy, global politics and negotiation in theory and practice on which to build, and the wide range of electives give you a chance to further study areas of specific interest. You'll also gain knowledge and develop your skills of negotiation, policy analysis, advocacy through interactive exercises such as workshops, moot courts, in-person seminars and more. Bringing theory to life, you'll have the chance to learn from diplomats, policy-makers, NGO officials and other industry leaders.
The following modules are indicative of what you'll study on this course.
Core modules
The module examines continuity and change in foreign policy making and diplomatic theory and practice in a world characterised by simultaneous processes of integration and fragmentation and uneven distribution of power. It evaluates the role of state and non-state actors in external policies and assesses the diplomatic strategies and negotiation techniques they employ. The module focuses on agency: the formulation of foreign policy and the adoption and employment of diplomatic tools and instruments and negotiation techniques in pursuit of security, prosperity, environmental and humanitarian objectives. It considers the possibility of sustainable or decolonised diplomacy and foreign policy.
You'll learn about the role of diplomacy in solving international issues marked by diversity, conflicts, wars, power shifts, rebellions against the state and much more.
By analysing some of the global challenges and crises, this module will provide insights into how diplomacy has evolved, acted in context-specific manner, adapted to and shaped different cultural, geo-political and colonial/postcolonial realities; and how it has also dealt with questions and instances of crisis, legitimacy, order, and disorder in the contemporary world.
The main aim of this module is to find whether diplomacy, associated with state-based “order”, is fit for a world with constant flux and disputes.
Diplomacy in Action charts the evolution of diplomatic practice from the earliest civilizations in history to contemporary modern diplomacy and beyond. It also examines the extent of diplomatic adaptation and innovation over time and across place. The module will discuss and problematize the intersection between theory and practice. It will explore changes in diplomatic and negotiation practice, including the rise of digital/AI diplomacy and public diplomacy, the sources of such change and the implications, as well.
Some key questions the module considers are:
- How has diplomacy and diplomatic theory changed in response to the new challenges and opportunities?
- Who has had what influence or power, over what issues, during which periods? What methods and mechanisms did they use? How can the diplomatic practice of particular types of actors be understood from multiple theoretical perspectives and approaches?
- How can constructivist, post-structural, feminist and postcolonial perspectives contribute to decolonisation of our understanding of diplomatic practice? How should we study non-traditional and non-western diplomatic cultures? What can we learn?
- To what extent are we moving into a ‘managerialization’, ‘de-professionalization’, or ‘transprofessionalization’ of diplomacy with the expansion of informal diplomacy?
You'll learn essential diplomatic skills and hone existing ones, like strategic thinking, drafting policy and position papers, writing diplomatic cables and outreach documents, negotiating, compromising, crisis management, public speaking and more. Lectures will be practice-based, including group exercises, presentations and simulations. This enables you to demonstrate your knowledge of diplomatic practice and complexities in global politics.
A key element of the module is its link with external organisations. Different speakers from government departments, NGOs or international organisations will be invited to address you either in person or online, providing guidance on the skills and knowledge required for a career in diplomacy or international relations. They will also share from their own career journeys’ diverse perspectives and an understanding of the wide range of diplomacy related jobs available within and outside national diplomatic services. Particular attention is paid to ensure that the speakers reflect the diverse backgrounds of our students.
You'll receive supervised guidance and research method training (through a series of research method workshops, the dissertation induction and individual dissertation supervision sessions) while preparing your dissertation on an agreed research topic.
Option modules
In this module, you'll look into the politics of global complexity, the debates that have been triggered and the way complexity understandings have developed especially post 1990s. The module will include the study of both theoretical frameworks and practices. Emphasis will be placed on conceptual frameworks deployed in understanding system effects on political, economic and social life, and how these help us rethink governance, power and agency. As an extension to teaching conceptual frameworks, the module will also cover how complexity is reflected in new approaches to policy, and external stakeholders will provide input to the module (for example, the Social Market Foundation, Demos, the New Local Government Network and the Foreign Policy Centre).
The end of the Cold War fundamentally altered the nature of international security, bringing with it new issues and threats to global peace. The contemporary era has seen the emergence of new kinds of instability engendered by intra-state conflicts and the involvement of non-state actors. This module provides a comprehensive overview of security discourse and practice since the end of the Cold War relating key issues - such as humanitarian intervention, self-defence and terrorism - to broader trends including the evolving role of the UN, the challenges to international law and the new concern with intra-state crises.
You'll learn the goals and nature of the United States’ foreign and security policies in the 21st century and the ways by which they are formulated. By studying this module you'll understand the political, economic, social, historical and strategic factors which influence foreign policy making in the US. To offer a holistic view of the subject, the module covers competing explanations and interpretations of the US foreign policy and the extent to which US foreign policy making is separate and distinct from the domestic one.
With the locus of power shifting from the West to the non-west, the global political landscape is undergoing a significant change. In this module, you'll recognise and analyse this change brought about by the rise of non-western states as great powers. The main focus will be on the domestic and international politics of China and India, and how the rise of these two powerful nations has impacted the growth of developed and developing countries.
This module aims at evaluating the relevance of contemporary debates in international relations and political economy to the study of energy security, energy markets and climate change. It examines the political history of the modern energy systems and the role played by states and major private and state-owned companies. In addition, it explores the role of global institutions and their impact on the interplay between energy security, energy markets and climate change. It scrutinises issues that underpin key discussions in the energy and climate change area, such as development, limits to growth, transparency, sustainability and the role of civil society. The module also critically assesses standard approaches to the issue of energy security by focusing on the problem of energy poverty and resilience.
In this module, we aim to teach you how to communicate effectively with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds from across the world who may have little or nothing in common with you. You'll be taught a wide range of intercultural theories, which will help increase your awareness of the kinds of challenges involved in such type of communication and the skills and strategies needed to overcome them.
By the end of it, you should have the knowledge required to work seamlessly in an environment where a variety of cultures, sub-cultures exist.
In this module, you'll look at the current debates surrounding Middle Eastern politics from several perspectives, with an underlying focus on Islam. You'll be introduced to a variety of theoretical approaches, from studying modern Middle East, to relevant perspectives in International Relations; you'll also study selected case studies and various other contributions to the debate from inside and outside the Arab world. A multidisciplinary approach will be adopted, where you'll be steered through the fields of comparative politics, Islamic and Middle Eastern studies, and social and political theory. Therefore, by the end of the module, you'll be familiar with key issues in modern Middle Eastern politics and develop an appreciation for the theoretical perspectives being covered.
You'll be introduced to theories and concepts relevant to understanding postcolonial international relations. The study of this will enable you to analyse how the former colonies of the world experience international relations at a global stage. It also examines this in context to the global change brought about by the rise of non-western powers after the end of colonialism.
The module sets out to explore the EU's international role: as an international trade partner; in its evolving competencies in foreign policy; in its dealings with NATO, the OSCE and its member states over defence and security issues; in its relations with accession states and other 'third states'; and in its self-image and values as an international actor. You'll learn a practice-led survey of the EU's external activities, informed by relevant theories.
This module introduces the key theories of global communication that underpin the MA, and considers how they are applied to current environments. Topics include world system theory, cultural imperialism, language and power and the impact of the widespread use of technology. As well as analysing the application of these theories in relevant contexts such as international business, public diplomacy and NGOs, the module encourages you to reflect on your own competences and strategies as a global communicator, and how you can develop them to succeed in increasingly fluid multilingual international contexts.
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For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
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Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
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Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
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Careers
With advanced analytical skills, broad knowledge of world affairs, and a thorough understanding of diplomatic concepts, theory and practice, including their practical application in both the Global North and the Global South, the course will prepare you for a variety of roles after graduation, including foreign services, governmental departments, International Organisations (the United Nations, European Union and more). You'll also be well-prepared to work for multinational corporations, global media houses, think tanks and other risk analysis organisations.
The University's Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
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Grow your network
Forge professional connections with peers and future colleagues.
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Kickstart your career
Opportunities for part-time work and other career resources are widely available to prepare you for the highly competitive job market after graduation.
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Develop your CQ
Connect with students and staff representing more than 100 nationalities and develop your Cultural Quotient (CQ), extremely useful for a career in diplomacy and global politics.
Industry links
The course benefits from the strong links lecturers have with UN institutions, the European Commission and the European Parliament, INGOs and thinktanks (including Chatham House, Global Witness, Crisis Group and others), as well as with international research networks. As part of these relationships, we organise visits to international organisations based abroad, which in the past have included an annual trip to Brussels to meet with representatives from the EU, NATO and other international organisations as well as a number of international non-governmental organisations. This has been an opportunity for our students to understand how these organisations work and talk about their career prospects.
Job roles
Diplomacy and Global Politics graduates typically take up roles, such as Diplomat, political officer, public diplomacy officer or consular officer in Foreign Ministries and their Diplomatic Services, as officials in international organisations (e.g. NATO and the EU), as consultants (for African Development Bank and the EBRD), as advocacy professional for international non-governmental organisations (e.g. Human Rights Watch and Global Witness (environment), and political and communications officer for large enterprises (e.g. Unilever).
Graduate employers
Graduates from this course are well equipped to work for employers who require postgraduates with acute understanding of political environment and the negotiation and critical thinking skills to operate efficiently and effectively in political and non-political environments alike.
Course Leader
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Dr Frands Pedersen
Senior Lecturer in International Relations
Dr Frands Pedersen is Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for the Foundation Courses in Humanities, Law and Social Sciences and the Diplomacy and Global Politics MA. He has Master's degrees in Political Science (Aarhus, Denmark) and Diplomacy (Lancaster). He received his PhD for his thesis on Para-diplomacy, which is an ongoing research interest alongside Public Diplomacy and Digital, Data and AI Diplomacy. He convenes the Teaching Excellence Learning Community at Westminster and the Political Studies Association’s Nordic Politics Specialist Group. He is also co-founder of the Serious Games@Westminster group.
Dr Pedersen has led Diplomacy, International Relations and European Union related modules at the Universities of Surrey, Central Lancashire and Westminster since 1999. In 2016, he was awarded a National Teaching Fellowship in recognition of his contribution to innovation in learning and teaching. He is passionate about active and immersive learning and has conducted extensive research on simulations and games, run projects and created shared resources to facilitate active learning. Dr Pedersen's current research focuses on Nordic responses to the Covid19 crisis, aspects of digital diplomacy and city diplomacy, and pedagogical research on compassion in higher education.
The safe and compassionate learning environment we have here encourages students to explore new ideas, grow their subject-knowledge, and expand their skills and build confidence.
Course Team
- Professor Dibyesh Anand - DVC Global Engagement & Employability
- Professor David Chandler - Professor
- Professor Roland Dannreuther - Professor
- Dr Magdalena Frennhoff Larsen - Reader
- Dr Aidan Hehir - Reader in International Relations
- Professor Nitasha Kaul - Professor of Politics, International Relations, and Critical Interdisciplinary Studies
- Dr Frands Pedersen - Senior Lecturer in International Relations
- Dr Wojciech Ostrowski - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Ali Tajvidi - Senior Lecturer
- Robert Williams - Principal Lecturer
- Dr Greg Aasen - Staff
Why study this course?
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Combine theory with practice
Link theory to practice through in-person seminars, workshops, moot courts and other interactive exercises held in a simulated environment.
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Get professional insight
Learn sector-specific skills from top-level diplomats, policy-makers, NGO officials, among many others.
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Taught by experts
You'll be taught by academics and practitioners, experts in the field, and with a passion for supporting students from diverse backgrounds.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a related discipline in Social Sciences or Humanities.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in writing.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process.
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a related discipline in Social Sciences or Humanities.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in writing.
More information
Learn new skills
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Access to Westminster Policy Skills Lab
You'll receive training from European Commission officials to develop your professional, career development, job application and interview skills.
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Improve problem-solving
Enhance your problem-solving skills by learning and working in an environment that mimics an actual diplomatic workplace.
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Access to Polylang
Opportunity to learn a foreign language with Polylang, including Arabic, Chinese, French and Spanish, enhancing your global communication skills.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £10,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you’ll be taught
Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you’ll be assessed
Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
- Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2023/24
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course Location
Our Regent Campus is composed of three sites, situated on and around one of the most famous and vibrant streets in London. Our Humanities and some of the Social Science subjects are based at 309 Regent Street, which includes recently refurbished social spaces, gym facilities and our Regent Street Cinema. Westminster Law School resides at Little Titchfield Street. Alongside a full mock courtroom, hi-tech learning spaces and a pro-bono clinic, it also houses our state-of-the-art, 382-seat lecture theatre. For more details, visit our locations page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
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