The accredited study programme (66 ECTS) of EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies pursues a set of learning outcomes aimed at providing expertise in all aspects of the EU's external action: foreign, security and defence policy, trade, development, humanitarian, environmental, energy, and migration policies, the EU's external representation and relations with major countries as well as relevant professional skills such as intelligence analysis, digital diplomacy, mediation or project management. Students learn to understand the multifaceted international role of the EU in connection with the functioning of the complex EU system, and they acquire the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of careers in national, European and international affairs.
In the first semester, starting in mid-September, students follow several compulsory courses. The first one is a refresher course on EU Institutions and decision-making processes. The other compulsory courses ensure the necessary background with regard to the political, legal and economic aspects of the EU’s external action and the practice of modern diplomacy.
Language courses form an integral part of the study programme throughout the academic year.
In the second semester, starting in January, students choose among a range of optional courses. They explore in depth selected topics that were broadly introduced to them during the compulsory courses, thus giving them the opportunity to study specific areas of interest in a more advanced and interactive manner. The courses are grouped according to the following thematic clusters: (1) security, justice and values, (2) foreign economic relations and sustainable development, (3) bi- and multilateral diplomacy and (4) specific professional skills.
Additionally, students follow two compulsory courses : a simulation exercise in the field of EU crisis management and a course on the European Neighbourhood Policy.
Each student also writes a Master's Thesis in the framework of an optional or compulsory course.
The study programme includes a study trip to Geneva, the European centre for multilateral diplomacy, in early spring. This trip is an integral part of the academic programme and is covered by the tuition fee.
Beyond the regular courses, students can follow shorter compact seminars on a broad range of topical issues relevant to the study of the EU's external action.
The Department also offers voluntary extra-curricular activities, guest lectures and conferences. Its staff equally conducts its own research activities.
The study programmes are revised annually to ensure continuing excellence and dynamism.
