COURSE CURRICULUM

The two-year Advanced MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy at Leiden University is structured to combine rigorous academic study with practical training. Most classes are conducted in a seminar format, requiring students to actively prepare and participate, fostering close interaction with faculty. The academic year is divided into two semesters, running from September to January and January to June, and the program spans two years.In the first year, students build a foundation in international relations theory and research methodology while also receiving practical training in diplomacy and negotiation from the Clingendael Institute. This year also includes an internship, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in international or diplomatic settings.The second year focuses on specialized subfields, such as international political economy, conflict, civil war, and mediation. Students further develop their research skills by designing studies, preparing a thesis proposal, and ultimately conducting independent research, culminating in the completion of a master’s thesis. This combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and research experience equips graduates to pursue careers in international organisations, diplomacy, policy analysis, or further academic research at the PhD level.