Introduction

Drawing on UC's teaching and research strengths, graduates can obtain a master's-level capstone qualification in the popular area of international relations and diplomacy. This degree will offer you an innovative, interdisciplinary programme of taught courses with a strong professional emphasis.

UC also offers a Master of Policy and Governance for those interested in advancing a policy and/or governance career in local, regional, national, and third/not-for-profit sectors.

Entry requirements

To qualify to enrol, you will need either:

• a bachelor's degree in any subject, normally with at least a B Grade Point Average in 60 points of 300-level courses in the majoring subject; or
• a bachelor's degree and a qualifying course, with at least a B Grade Point Average in 60 points of 300-level courses; or
• a bachelor's degree, and evidence of relevant professional or other work experience; or
• other approved qualifications of an equivalent standard.

All students will also need approval to enrol.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.

For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of International Relations and Diplomacy or use the admission requirements checker.

English language courses offered in partnership with CCEL will prepare you for study at Foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate degree level. The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses offered by CCEL are designed to provide you with the specific language and study skills you will need to succeed in academic study.

Further details and application form are available from the CCEL site.

Career opportunities

The MIRAD caters perfectly for students interested in careers in foreign affairs or inter-state coordination.

While Manatū Aorere | Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not require specific tertiary pathways, applicants can find it advantageous to have a postgraduate degree in an analytical subject such as law, political science, international relations, economics, or science.

Graduates will leave UC having:

• advanced knowledge of current research in international relations
• advanced knowledge of current professional practice in diplomacy and related fields
• the ability to understand theoretical and practical problems in international relations and diplomacy
• proven expertise in research processes (eg, formulating a research question, data collection and analysis, case study analysis, and hypothesis testing)
• engaged with senior university staff and senior figures in politics and policy.