M.A. in Development Studies and Diplomacy (in partnership with UPEACE)

The Master of Arts in Development Studies and Diplomacy is an interdisciplinary and holistic program that will not only broaden student’s knowledge in the field of development studies, sustainability, and diplomacy but it will also equip them with the required soft skills for a successful international career in any of these areas of expertise. It is offered both online and face-to-face on the UPEACE campus in Costa Rica.

During this program, students will analyze the different dimensions of development including, environmental, social, economic, and human dimensions as well as the theory and practice of diplomacy in the 21st century. Students will also attend skills development sessions that are designed to support their professional careers and employability. Careers in this field can be very broad. Prospective employers include governments, international organizations, development agencies, academia, and the private sector.

Optional field trip to Geneva and The Hague

Each year, UNITAR will organize an optional 5-day field trip to Geneva (Switzerland) and The Hague (Netherlands) for the students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Development Studies and Diplomacy and the Certificate in International Development Studies and Diplomacy.

During this activity, students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the very heart of diplomacy, visit different international organizations, and network with other diplomats, personnel of permanent missions accredited to the UN, civil servants of international organizations, and civil society representatives.

Students will spend 3 days in Geneva and 2 days in The Hague.

The fee for the five-day field trip is 1,500 USD. The fee does not include travel, accommodation, food, or visa expenses.

The optional field visit will take place every Summer. The exact dates will be agreed upon in conjunction with UPEACE depending on the availability of UNITAR’s experts.

The program is designed for graduate students, diplomats, government officers, NGO representatives, international civil servants, or private sector specialists willing to strengthen their knowledge in development studies, sustainability, international affairs management, and diplomacy.

At the end of the program, students should:

• Have a deep understanding of the theory and practice of development studies, international cooperation, and sustainable development.
• Be able to evaluate the different dimensions of development.
• Have a deep understanding of the theory and practice of diplomacy.
• Be able to appraise the nexus between diplomacy, the UN System, and contemporary challenges.
• Be able to apply key soft skills in an international working environment.