Master of Arts in Development Studies and Diplomacy (hybrid)

This unique programme is the only Master of Arts degree jointly delivered by two United Nations agencies. It is designed to provide students with first-hand expertise in the field of development, international affairs, and diplomacy. During this programme, students will analyze the different dimensions of development including environmental, social, economic and human dimensions as well as the theory and practice of diplomacy in the 21st century. Students will also attend skills development sessions that are designed to support their professional careers and employability. Careers in this field can be very broad. Prospective employers include governments, international organisations, development agencies, academia, and the private sector.

Students can also pursue a shorter programme, namely the Certificate in Development Studies and Diplomacy or sign up for individual online courses offered as part of the Master of Arts in Development Studies and Diplomacy or the Certificate in Development Studies and Diplomacy.

Students can also participate in optional field visits to Geneva, Switzerland, and The Hague, the Netherlands. During this activity, students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the very heart of diplomacy and international law, visit different international organizations and network with other diplomats, personnel of permanent missions accredited to the UN, civil servants of international organizations and civil society representatives.

The Programme is delivered in a hybrid format on the University for Peace campus in Costa Rica, and taught in English.

Target Audience

The programme is designed for graduate students, diplomats, government officers, NGO representatives, international civil servants or private sector specialists willing to strengthen their knowledge in development studies, sustainability, international affairs management and diplomacy.

Learning Objectives

At the end of the programme, students should:

Have a deep understanding of the theory and practice of development studies, international cooperation and sustainable development.
Be able to evaluate the different dimensions of development.
Have a deep understanding on the theory and practice of diplomacy.
Be able to appraise the nexus between diplomacy, the UN System and contemporary challenges.
Be able to apply key soft skills in an international working environment.