Diplomacy and Foreign Policy

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.

Please also see our guidance on essential documentation required for an initial decision on taught programme applications.

Months of entry

September

Course content

• 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.
• Students will gain hands-on experience through applied learning, particularly in the second core module, which involves practical exercises such as simulations, workshops, and a field trip to key diplomatic institutions in London.
• The London field trip will include visits to governmental and non-governmental organisations, such as the Houses of Parliament, think tanks, foreign embassies, and international organisations, providing valuable networking and career development opportunities.
• Students will develop transferable skills, such as geopolitical risk assessment and policy execution, enabling them to respond effectively to dynamic global challenges and engage in high-level diplomatic and foreign policy work.
• Designed for early and mid-career professionals, the MA prepares graduates for various roles, including positions in foreign service, international organisations, and NGOs, leveraging both intellectual insights and practical skills for leadership positions.

You will also explore how nations achieve their foreign policy goals, how these policies shape global conflicts, and how diplomatic practices and international cooperation have evolved. By deepening your understanding of complex foreign policy issues and learning how to evaluate and implement them effectively, you will graduate with enhanced confidence in your abilities and be well-prepared to make an immediate positive impact in your career.

Information 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. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

Fees and funding

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, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships*.

For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.