About Diplomacy, Law And Global Change MA in Coventry University

If you feel like the world has taken a worrying turn, an MA in Diplomacy, Law and Global Change could set you on the path to changing it.

Are you interested in the nature of the world in which we live, the problems it confronts and how to respond to these problems?

Focusing on the emerging global order of the 21st century, this course aims to provide an understanding of the development and contemporary practice of diplomacy and the rules of international law and helps to prepare students with useful skills for careers in diplomatic services, international organisations, non-governmental organisations or international business.

Why Coventry University?

An award-winning university, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible experience. We continue to invest in both our facilities and our innovative approach to education. Our students benefit from industry-relevant teaching, and resources and support designed to help them succeed. These range from our modern library and computing facilities to dedicated careers advice and our impressive Students’ Union activities.

Course information

We consider one of the core issues presented by the international system as it has evolved is the establishment and maintenance of order and the reconciliation of this goal with that of the achievement of justice for the competing claims of groups, both territorial and non-territorial, and individuals.

This fascinating course explores the emerging global order of the 21st century from the perspectives of diplomacy and international law. Rapid change at both the domestic and international levels – globalization – is transforming the policy environment and context in which both are constrained to operate. You will study the changing environment and new challenges it presents, such as gender equality, climate change, modern slavery, terrorism and organised crime.

The course focuses on two sets of inter-related issues which are central to an understanding of this changing environment. Firstly, we will look at the role and nature of diplomacy as a key mode of communication between states and other actors on the international stage. Secondly, we examine the development and adaptation of the norms and rules of international law, which have traditionally constituted the main sources of order in the international system. 

Attracting students from a number of different countries to this course, in the past including Nigeria, Indonesia, Croatia, Oman, Austria, Ghana, Pakistan and the UK, we offer a multicultural learning experience of diverse cultures and values, which will better prepare you to work in an increasingly globalised job market. 

The School of Humanities and Coventry Law School has an outstanding network of professional contacts, which spans diplomats and diplomacy specialists in a range of prestigious external organisations, both private and public, our network has included Chatham House, the Centre for the Study of Slavery, the Royal African Society and the Institute of Cultural Diplomacy. These links are reflected in regular talks and events, past examples include an assistant district attorney from Sicily, assistant chief constable of South Yorkshire Police, deputy high commissioner of Tanzania to the UK; a senior manager from the UK’s National Crime Agency and a forensic accountant from the Italian national police. 

Career prospects

Employers are looking for individuals with the ability to work across different cultures, and to possess problem-solving and critical analysis skills.

As well as giving you the opportunity to achieve two additional awards (Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Leadership and Management and a Level 7 Award in Professional Consulting), the CMI accredited Global Professional Development module may set you apart in a competitive job market. Students should gain practical leadership skills to critically evaluate and develop solutions for complex, inter-related, multi-faceted issues that you will experience in your future organisations.

The course aims to provide both an academically demanding experience and one which will be of practical use in a future career. We encourage you to gain first-hand experience through volunteering and placement opportunities. In the past students have, undertaken internships in embassies and high commissions, such as the Thai Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, think-tanks, including the Royal Institute of International Affairs in London, the Institute of Cultural Diplomacy in Berlin and the South-South International Cooperation organisation in Palermo, and undertaken research in universities abroad such as the Arab-American University in Jenin.

The course aims to prepare students for roles such as public administration within a Foreign Service or other government department, international civil service (such as the United Nations or European Union), international agencies and non-governmental organisations, as well as multinational corporations, the international media, teaching and research.

Where our graduates work

Some of our graduates have been successful in securing employment in the foreign services of a range of countries from Ethiopia to the UK, as well as working in government departments in Barbados, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the United Kingdom. Some have gone on to enter the diplomatic service in their home country; others have sought careers in international organisations, nongovernmental organisations, or international commerce and business.

Successful applicants must normally hold a second class honours degree in a relevant discipline.

Applicants who can demonstrate considerable experience at an appropriate professional level but who do not have the formal academic entry qualifications may also be admitted, subject to an application and assessment.

English as a Foreign Language This course requires IELTS of 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5. Pre-sessional English is available if required.

Our International Student Hub offers information on entry requirements for your country, as well as contact details for agents and representatives should you need more advice.

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