Training
Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy (MAIRD)
In the current era of global interdependence, collaborative efforts are needed in order to meet challenges in international politics, security and economics. Increased trans-national channels of communication, global trade and capital flows characterise an increasingly interconnected world of both nation states and non-state actors. Challenges to global governance can be met most effectively by patterns of international and transnational cooperation and diplomacy.
Aims
The MAIRD offers a unique blend of academic education in international relations and political science with graduate education and training in international negotiation and diplomacy. The two-year programme is offered jointly by Leiden University and the Netherlands Institute of International Relations 'Clingendael'. Leiden has long pursued an international orientation. The Clingendael Diplomatic Studies Programme is a leading centre for diplomatic studies and a first-class diplomatic training academy. This Masters programme prepares students specifically for careers in diplomacy, international governmental and non-governmental organisations, national or international public administrations, 'think tanks' and research institutions, international interest associations or international business.
Structure
The academic year is divided into two semesters. The duration of the programme is 2 years. In the first year, students attend predominantly mandatory courses in political science and international relations. In addition, students choose an elective. The second year provides students with specialised knowledge and hands-on experience in the area of diplomacy and international organisation, as well as insights into the practice of international negotiation and diplomacy. For second-year students, the majority of first semester courses take place at the Leiden University's branch in The Hague. Towards the end of the first semester, second-year students also attend a 'Thesis Laboratory' at Leiden University. In the second semester, students have the possibility to either complete an internship at an international organisation or attend two additional seminars at Leiden University. The two-year MAIRD programme is concluded with the submission of a thesis on a topic in international relations, international organisation, conflict resolution or diplomacy.
Participants and Admission
Admission requirements:
- A Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international law, sociology or history. In exceptional cases, applicants with prior education in other fields, but with outstanding academic qualities, or with excellent professional training in the area of international relations and diplomacy, may be admitted to the programme.
- Demonstrated excellence in their prior academic education.
- Demonstrated proficiency in spoken and written English as evidenced by a TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper based) / 250 (computer based) / 100 (internet based) or an IELTS test level of at least 7.0.
Data
All students are requested to apply before the 1st of April; start programme September 1.
Information
Visit this website or contact the Political Science Department of the Leiden University, ms. Marianne Boere, tel. +31(71)5273936.
Other courses:
- Theories and Approaches in International Relations
- Conflict Resolution and Post-war Reconstruction
- International Political Economy
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Quantitative Methods in Political Science
- Research Design
- Conflict and Diplomacy in the Middle East
- International Law and Peace and Security in a Multilateral World
Clingendael courses include:
- Diplomacy Today: Theory and Practice
- Diplomacy in Asia
- International Negotiation
Students have the possibility of either completing an internship at an international organisation or attending two additional specialised courses. The programme ends after successful completion of the Master thesis, usually in the month of June in the second year of study.
Degree
Students who complete the programme receive a MA in International Relations and Diplomacy of Leiden University. The requirements of the programme are met when all courses have been passed successfully and the Master thesis has been approved.
Registration and Application
Application forms are available at the Leiden University website or will be mailed upon request. The deadline for returning the application form and the required documentation is April 1st. Admission is competitive.
Scholarships
Partial scholarships may be available and are provided on the basis of merit and demonstrated need. For more information, please see the Leiden University website
| Degree | Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy |
|---|---|
| Programme duration | 2 years |
| Start and end date | September - June |
| Type of Programme | Full-time |
| Fees |
|
| Language of instruction | English |
| Application deadline | April 1st |
| Application form | visit the Leiden University website |
| Entry requirements | BA degree in Political Science, International Relations, Economics, Business, Public Administration, International Law, Sociology or History (or equivalent). TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper based) / 250 (computer based) / 100 (internet based) or an IELTS test level of at least 7.0. Excellence in prior education. |