Curriculum
The Master in Diplomacy and International Affairs program is a 30-credit master’s that spans one academic year, offering a dynamic and globally focused curriculum.
With Georgetown’s multi-location learning model, you will have the opportunity to study across three strategically significant cities: Jakarta, Indonesia; Doha, Qatar; and Washington, DC. Each contributes a unique perspective on international affairs.
Curriculum overview
The Master in Diplomacy and International Affairs is organized around three distinct modules, each focusing on different aspects of international affairs and diplomacy. These modules take place across three global locations, each tailored to reflect the specific geopolitical and economic regional concerns.
Jakarta, Indonesia
Fall semester
Study issues related to Asia-Pacific diplomacy, economic integration and regional security.
Doha, Qatar
One week module
A week-long immersive module focused on Middle Eastern geopolitics and energy diplomacy.
Washington, DC
Spring semester
Examine global issues, international law, economic diplomacy, and the workings of international institutions.
Real-world diplomacy: Site visits and networking
During the Washington, DC, and Doha modules, you will also have the chance to visit government agencies, international organizations, and think tanks, providing you with critical insights and opportunities to network with policymakers and global leaders.
Course sequence
Throughout the three residencies, you will engage with 30 credits in the areas of international relations, economic diplomacy, environment and energy policy, diplomatic skills development and social development.
Fall semester (August – December)
Jakarta, Indonesia – 10.5 credits
Required diplomacy and international affairs courses
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| Foundations in International Relations | 1.5 |
| Foundations in International Political Economy | 1.5 |
| Diplomacy Case Study | 1.5 |
Diplomacy and international affairs elective courses
Choose three or six credits of the following
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| International Relations of the Asia Pacific | 1.5 |
| Financial Integration in the Asia Pacific | 1.5 |
| Maritime Issues in the Asia Pacific | 1.5 |
| International Law | 1.5 |
| Technology Policy in the Asia Pacific | 1.5 |
| Geoeconomics and China | 1.5 |
General elective courses
Choose up to six credits from the following
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| Critical Minerals and Natural Resources | 3 |
| Sustainable Fisheries | 3 |
| Geopolitics and Investment Policy | 3 |
| Community and Development | 3 |
| Conflict, Peacebuilding and Recovery | 3 |
One-week module (January)
Doha, Qatar – 3 credits
Courses
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| Asia and the Middle East | 3 |
| Geopolitics of Energy | 3 |
Spring semester (January – May)
Washington, DC, or Jakarta, Indonesia* – 10.5 credits
*Students may petition the program director to complete the program at GSAP
Spring semester in DC: Required capstone
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| Policy-Making and International Institutions | 1.5 |
| Crisis Simulation: Negotiating as a Diplomat | 1.5 |
Spring semester in DC: Diplomacy and international affairs elective courses
Choose 7.5 to 10.5 credits
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| Negotiation Theory and Practice | 1.5 |
| International Economics for Practitioners | 1.5 |
| Public and Cultural Diplomacy | 1.5 |
| Trade and Investment in the Asia Pacific | 1.5 |
| Leadership and Crisis Management | 1.5 |
| Climate Policy and Diplomacy | 1.5 |
| Other School of Foreign Service courses | Up to 3 |
Spring semester in Jakarta: Required capstone
You may choose one of the following options. If you choose the alternative course, you will have to submit a petition; if approved, you must present a final paper for the course.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| Directed Research | 3 |
| Alternative 3-credit course with final paper | 3 |
Spring semester in Jakarta: Diplomacy and international affairs elective courses
Choose 7.5 credits in other courses (to be made available) or Policy Labs.
Grade point average
You must achieve a 3.0 GPA to graduate.