ObjectivesDiplomatic studies has long been an important element in teaching and research in the Department of Politics and International Relations at Leicester. Diplomatic studies is concerned principally with the modes of diplomacy (for example, the resident ambassador and summitry) and its function (for example, negotiation and information gathering). The subject deals not only with the contemporary period but also with the origins of diplomatic institutions and the development of diplomatic law. This course aims to promote an understanding of the distinctiveness of diplomacy as a political activity of central importance to the peaceful, stable and productive conduct of relations between states; to impart knowledge and stimulate debate concerning the key modes and functions of diplomacy, in both contemporary and historical contexts; to consider international institutions and areas of the world with which professional diplomats might reasonably be expected to be familiar, for example, the European Union.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements Either a first or a good second class honours degree from a British university or its equivalent, in Politics, History, International Relations or other related subjects.
Academic titleMA/Postgraduate Diploma in Diplomatic Studies
Course descriptionCourse modules
Core:
-The Art of Negotiation
-Dissertation
Option modules (three from the following – subject to availability):
-The Modes of Diplomacy
-International Security
-Post Cold War World Order
-Democracy in East Central Europe
-American Interventionism since 1993
-Diplomatic Systems
-Democracy and Legitimacy in the EU
-South African Foreign Policy
Teaching and assessment methods
The core modules are examined by mixture of assessed essay and unseen examination. The optional modules are examined by a class presentation and an assessed essay. All teaching is by seminars. MA/MSc students who have passed all forms of assessment will be able to proceed to write a supervised dissertation of between 12,000 and 15,000 words in length