Background
In an increasingly interconnected, globalized and complex world, where the importance of multilateral dialogue and cooperation is ever-growing, the demand for training and capacity development in the field of international affairs and diplomacy is constantly rising. In this regard, the establishment of this innovative Online Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy between the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Open University of Catalonia (UOC) holds great significance.
This Master’s programme is designed to suit the needs of students and professionals interested in both developing essential knowledge for understanding international affairs, as well as strengthening their capacities in the practice of diplomacy. This Master’s Degree will allow diplomats, government officials, students and other stakeholders to upgrade their studies and knowledge combining the best of university education and UN executive training.
Content and Structure:
To receive the Master’s Degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy, issued by the UOC in partnership with UNITAR, students must successfully complete the following courses equivalent to 60 ECTS in one year.
UNITAR COURSES
•Introduction to the UN System
•Conflict Resolution and Crisis Management
•International Diplomacy - Theory and Practice
•Overcoming Negotiation Deadlocks
•Public Diplomacy in a Multipolar World
•Field visit to Geneva, Switzerland (optional)
•Field visit to The Hague, the Netherlands (optional)
UOC COURSES
• International Law and Institutions
• International Relations System and Theories
• International Political Economy
• EU and Eastern Europe in World Politics
• Latin America in World Politics
• Asia-Pacific in World Politics
• Africa and the Middle East in World Politics
• Research Methods Course
• Master Thesis
• Internship (optional)
Students will also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the very heart of diplomacy or into the city of peace and justice. Optional field trips to Geneva, Switzerland (5 days) and The Hague, the Netherlands (5 days) will be organized for those who wish to gain expertise as well as skills in the domain of multilateral diplomacy.
Students have the choice between the Full-Time track (12 months, 2 semesters) or the Part-Time track (24 months, 4 semesters). Working professionals are strongly encouraged to apply for the part-time programme due to the heavy workload (60 ECTS). Please note that each ECTS corresponds to 25 hours of study.
Methodology:
UNITAR and UOC have developed extensive expertise in the delivery of online programmes. Using the Internet as a medium, students, diplomas, practitioners and scholars are brought together in a unique virtual learning environment designed to valorize experiential and collaborative learning.
Distinctive features of the Master and its related qualifications include:
· Full online delivery, allowing for a flexible schedule designed to fit the specific needs of working professionals;
· Student-centered approach, in which the learner and the learning experience at the core of the programme;
· Leading-edge insights into prevailing theories and practices;
· Lifelong learning approach, in which the workplace is used as the main learning environment;
· Multi-cultural pedagogy, particularly attentive at the diversity of paradigms, perceptions and intellectual traditions;
· Multi-disciplinary approach.
How to register
In order to be considered for the Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy and related qualifications, candidates must be fluent in English, possess a valid passport or national identity card and have completed an undergraduate degree (*).
During the registration process please upload the following documents:
- a copy of your CV
- a copy of your bachelor's degree certificate
- motivation letter
After the reception of these documents, your application will be carefully considered. In case your application is successful, UNITAR will send you an acceptance email prior to the beginning of the programme. Once your confirmation is received, UOC will send you a registration link by which you can complete your official registration and proceed with the payment. UOC will also ask you to provide the following documents:
-Copy of passport
-Work certificate (only for students who wish to validate their work experience).
Please note that students who provide confirmation of past work experience or do an internship can request to be exempted from one out of five subjects from the block of regional studies. In all cases, the practical experience must amount to at least 100 hours and be related to international relations in the wider sense. UOC's Academic Board reserves the right to recommend which subject should be exempted taking into account students' professional experience. Students must send their work certificate to UOC Programme Tutor at least one month prior to the beginning of the regional studies course they want to validate. Otherwise, their request will not be accepted and will be automatically enrolled in all subjects in regional studies.
Upon registration, UNITAR will transfer students' data to UOC. UOC has a joint controllership with regard to students' personal data provided during the registration process.
(*) Students who successfully complete the Programme and are unable to offer proof that they hold an official university degree will be issued a university extension diploma with the programme’s name.
