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Academic catalog · 2026–2027

Master in Diplomacy

The Master in Diplomacy concentrates on the practice, institutions, and ethical responsibilities of diplomatic engagement. Distinct from the broader theoretical orientation of International Relations, it emphasizes negotiation, mediation, protocol, representation, multilateral practice, conflict resolution, and the writing required of diplomatic work.

Program overview

Historical and legal foundations are joined to the just-peace tradition, ethics of statecraft, religious diplomacy, and the distinctive history of Holy See diplomacy. Students examine how prudence, truthfulness, dignity, solidarity, and the common good bear upon concrete choices in international representation.

Admission requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree or equivalent undergraduate qualification from an institution acceptable to PCU-USA.
  • Official transcripts from every postsecondary institution attended.
  • A curriculum vitae describing academic, professional, or research experience.
  • A statement of purpose explaining the applicant’s preparation and proposed field of graduate study.
  • A substantial academic writing sample demonstrating analytical ability.
  • Evidence of proficiency in the language of instruction.

Curriculum

  1. History of Diplomacy — 3 credits
  2. Diplomatic Practice and Institutions — 3 credits
  3. Negotiation and Mediation — 3 credits
  4. Diplomatic Protocol and Representation — 3 credits
  5. International Law for Diplomatic Practice — 3 credits
  6. Multilateral Diplomacy and International Organizations — 3 credits
  7. Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding — 3 credits
  8. Holy See and Religious Diplomacy — 3 credits
  9. Just Peace and the Ethics of Statecraft — 3 credits
  10. Diplomatic Writing and Policy Analysis — 3 credits
  11. Applied Research Seminar in Diplomacy — 3 credits
  12. Diplomacy Capstone Project — 3 credits

Learning outcomes

  • Interpret the historical development, institutions, and conventions of diplomatic practice.
  • Prepare clear diplomatic correspondence, briefing materials, and policy analysis.
  • Apply negotiation and mediation methods to complex interstate and transnational disputes.
  • Evaluate international-law foundations relevant to representation and multilateral practice.
  • Analyze Holy See and religious diplomacy within the wider history of statecraft.
  • Exercise ethical judgment informed by prudence, dignity, just peace, and the common good.
  • Conduct applied research and present defensible recommendations to institutional audiences.

Assessment

  • Assessment uses negotiation simulations, diplomatic notes, briefing books, protocol exercises, mediation plans, historical case studies, and oral briefings. The capstone requires an applied diplomatic problem, a documented analytical method, and recommendations attentive to institutional, legal, and ethical constraints.

Completion requirements

  • Earn all 36 required credits.
  • Pass every required course and remain in satisfactory academic standing.
  • Complete and obtain institutional approval of the master’s thesis or final scholarly project.
  • Resolve all academic-record and graduation requirements before conferral.