UNITAR / Michael Chiribau
UNITAR is delighted to offer the Master of Arts in Interpreting and Conference Diplomacy (MA ICD), in cooperation with Newcastle University (NCU). This innovative graduate programme will combine NCU’s academic strength in interpreting with UNITAR’s hands-on expertise in multilateral diplomacy, implemented in person format over one year.
The programme aims to equip students with advanced interpreting skills in English and Mandarin Chinese while deepening their understanding of diplomatic practice, conference management, and the role of Artificial Intelligence in international affairs. In addition to academic excellence, the joint Master’s offers a direct connection to the UN and its agencies.
Course Content
The MA ICD is strongly practice-oriented, integrating intensive interpreting training with immersive exposure to conference diplomacy. Students will participate in a 10-day Practicum in Geneva at UN premises, gaining direct insight into simultaneous interpretation, multilateral negotiations, diplomatic protocol, and conference management. In the summer, you will benefit from the support of a supervisor for your dissertation or interpreting project.
As several courses are implemented by UNITAR, instructors include high-level practitioners in diplomacy, such as current and former ambassadors, senior UN officials, and experts in negotiation, AI applications, and cross-cultural communication.
The Master’s is divided into the following modules:
Semester 1
- Introduction to Diplomacy – Diplomatic Practice in the age of AI
- AI and Digital Tools in Interpreting Practice
- Advanced Simultaneous Interpreting
- Consecutive Interpreting & International Negotiation
- Translation & Interpreting Studies
Semester 2
- Conference Diplomacy & Model UN
- AI and Digital Tools in Interpreting Practice
- Advanced Simultaneous Interpreting
- Consecutive Interpreting & International Negotiation
- Research Methods & Dissertation/Project
UNITAR / Michael Chiribau
UNITAR / Michael Chiribau
Learning Goals
The interdisciplinary Master’s Programme in Interpreting and Conference Diplomacy (MA ICD) is oriented around the following five learning goals:
- The development of advanced professional competencies in interpreting and cross-cultural communication in diplomatic settings
- An understanding of the core components of the United Nations and its affiliated agencies
- An understanding of diplomacy and its role in international settings
- Knowledge of AI tools and trends and an understanding of their transformative impact on diplomatic events and conferences
- The development of career management skills for careers in international organizations
Career Opportunities
In addition to the academic and practical components of the programme, participants will also have the chance to build a strong understanding of how to start their careers within the UN system. Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Experience the UN work environment in Geneva first-hand
- Benefit from networking opportunities with UN experts and staff members
- Take part in tailor-made UN career development sessions
- Maximize chances to secure an internship position in the UN
UNITAR / Michael Chiribau
Eligibility
Participants:
In order to cover the cost of implementation, UNITAR proposes to establish a minimum threshold of 15 students and a maximum threshold of 60 students per group for each cohort for this programme.
Pre-studies:
The prerequisite for admission to the MA ICD is proof of a completed Bachelor’s or equivalent degree (equivalent to a UK 2:2 honours degree) from a recognized post-secondary institution. Graduates from any discipline are welcome to apply. A strong background in languages, translation, interpreting, or international relations would be an advantage.
Applicants with lower or non-standard qualifications who have at least two years of experience as a Chinese-English interpreter will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Language Skills:
This course is open to applicants with linguistic proficiency in both Chinese and English.
Applicants whose first language is English are required to submit evidence of degree-level language proficiency (or equivalent) in Chinese as part of their application. Applicants whose first language is Chinese are required to meet the English language requirements for the course. IELTS and TOEFL scores are accepted. Applicants are not required to have completed their IELTS or TOEFL assessments before applying to this course.
Applicants whose application is successful in the first round of selection will be invited to attend an online interview as a part of the application process.
Application Deadlines
Start of Lectures: September 2026
Application Deadline: 30 April 2026