International Security and Diplomacy (Taught)

Please note, this programme will be renamed MSc International Security and Diplomacy for September 2026 entry.

The MSc Strategic Studies and Diplomacy is a programme for all those interested in the workings and interactions of governments across various levels, concerning governments which have both friendly relations and those which endure more strained relations.

It will also be of interest for professionals interested in progressing their careers who require knowledge on diplomacy and strategic thinking within both government and non-government organisations.

We live in a global situation which is becoming ever more uncertain as the international community tackles problems as diverse as climate change discussions, migration, development aid, trade and the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Middle East. New actors have emerged on the international arena, but states remain the key actors within the international system.

This programme explores how governments and non-government organisations interact with each other, ranging from formal state visits to more covert interactions which take place. During this programme you will learn about the different types of diplomacy that exist, conflict resolution, transnational diplomacy with several case studies also being explored including crisis diplomacy and immigration. You will also be able to practice your diplomatic skills with interactive learning opportunities and blended learning.

To achieve this goal, three key questions are examined:

• What are the ‘rules of the game’ in international diplomacy?

• How do governments engage with other governments (both friendly and more hostile)?

• How do governments engage with the emergence of new strategic actors, economic trends, security and development challenges, and global flashpoints?