Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy and Related Qualifications

Introduction

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 relations and diplomacy is constantly rising. In this regard, the establishment of this innovative Online Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy [Master’s Degree in Lifelong Learning] as well as the Specialization Diploma in Regional Studies and International Institutions, the Specialization Diploma in Multilateral Diplomacy and International Institutions, and the Expert Diplomas in Multilateral Diplomacy, International Institutions, Regional Studies between the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Open University of Catalonia (UOC) holds great significance.

The Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy [Master’s Degree in Lifelong Learning] is a UOC-Certified Master’s Degree (awarded according to the rules and regulations set by the Spanish education system). Given its specificity, it does not give general access to Doctoral studies (Ph.D. and similar). Validation of credits for access to such programs can be requested from competent institutions.

The Master’s Degree is a degree awarded by UOC ("Título propio" in Spanish). According to the recent Spanish Royal Decree (RD822/2021) setting forth new regulations on education, the official title of the Master is Master's Degree in Lifelong Learning in International Affairs and Diplomacy.

Universities around the world have different requirements and we are not in a position to certify that all universities will accept the Master’s degree as sufficient.

For enquiries about the next intake, please email mdp-elearning@unitar.org.

Beneficiaries

These online programmes are designed to be perfectly suited to the needs of students and full-time professionals interested in both developing essential knowledge for understanding international affairs, as well as strengthening their capacities in the practice of diplomacy.

The degrees will allow diplomats, government officials, students and other stakeholders to upgrade their studies and knowledge with a formally recognized degree combining the best of university education and UN executive training.

Application and Programme Details

Full-time students can complete the Online Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy [Master’s Degree in Lifelong Learning], the Specialization Diploma in Regional Studies and International Institutions, or the Specialization Diploma in Multilateral Diplomacy and International Institutions in 2 semesters. Part-time students of the Master can complete the programme in 4 semesters. Students of the Expert Diplomas in International Institutions, Multilateral Diplomacy, or Regional Studies will complete the programme in 1 semester.

*Please note we encourage working professionals to opt for the part-time option due to the comprehensive workload

APPLY NOW:

To learn more and apply, please click on the links below:

UOC-UNITAR Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy [Master's Degree in Lifelong Learning] (March 2025)

SPECIALIZATION AND EXPERT DIPLOMAS

UOC-UNITAR Specialization Diplomas (MARCH 2025)

UOC-UNITAR Expert Diplomas (MARCH 2025)

Master's Degree in Lifelong Learning in International Affairs and Diplomacy (UOC, UNITAR) Academic Pathway

Frequently Asked Questions314.79 KB

UOC Academic Requirements312.33 KB

UOC-UNITAR 2025 Field Visits

Students enrolled in the UOC-UNITAR Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy and related qualifications can register for the UOC-UNITAR 2025 Field Visits. The field visit is also open to students enrolled in the UOC Master Programme in Human Rights, Democracy and Globalization. Registration links coming soon!

ALUMNI TESTIMONIAL

Objectives

By the end of the programme, participants will:

Gain critical understanding of key issues and concepts in world affairs and international relations as well as practical knowledge they could leverage in their professional careers
Master analytical skills and critical thinking
Be able to perform in both bilateral and multilateral working environments with increased confidence
Advance their career trajectory with newly acquired skills, and join a broad group of alumni around the world

Methodology

The design and training methodologies devote particular attention to:

Full online delivery, allowing for a flexible schedule designed to fit the specific needs of full-time 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.