MA Program in International Relations & Cultural Diplomacy (regular track)

• Master

  Degree

• English

  Language of instructions

• 2 years

  Years of study

• Full-time

  Study mode

• October 1, 2025

  Studies commence

• Germany

  Location

The MA Program is a two-year program offered by the Hochschule Furtwangen University (HFU) in partnership with the ICD Academy for Cultural Diplomacy. The degree provides a comprehensive foundation of studies through a unique blend of academic education in international relations, political science and multiple academic fields, related to the unique relationships that exist between various nations and cultures & the interaction of nation-states and non-governmental organisations in fields such as politics, economics, security and culture. A particular emphasis is put on successful strategies, policies and practices of cultural diplomacy for the achievement of international and transnational co-operation & soft power objectives, whether in the public sector, private sector or civil society. The curriculum provides students with expertise in two distinct academic fields, combining both an academic and practical advantage in the global arena, and preparing them for careers in diverse fields such as international relations, politics, international business, the humanities and culture. The program addresses contemporary international issues, with classroom seminars and lectures, as well as educational & cultural events, conferences, professional trainings, tours, visits and meetings with foreign officials, which are further incorporated into the curriculum. Students meet with leading experts working in international organizations, embassies, and academic institutions, and engage with specialists in the areas of international relations & economics, business, communication, politics, human rights, culture, peace building, multilateral diplomacy, conflict resolution and development. Modules and courses include: -Module Academic Skills & Transcultural Competences (6 ECTS) -Module International Relations (6 ECTS) International Relations Case Studies in International Relations -Module International Cultural Diplomacy (12 ECTS) The History and Evolution of the Field of Cultural Diplomacy International Case Studies of Applied Cultural Diplomacy -Module Electives Cultural Diplomacy- Part 1 (6 ECTS) International Organizations Cultural Diplomacy in Conflict Zones European Studies & Politics -Module Professional Development Training Program (18 ECTS) -Module Electives Cultural Diplomacy- Part 2 (12 ECTS) Soft Power, Hard Power, and Smart Power Nation Branding and Unilateral Cultural Diplomacy International Governance: Trade, Finance and Common Pool Resources -Module Future Trends in International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy (9 ECTS) Future Trends in International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy Case studies in Future trends -Module Economics and International Financial Markets (9 ECTS Credits) International Financial Markets and Institutions Economics -Module Managerial and Legal Contexts (12 ECTS credits) Managing Diversities International Law and Human Rights Business Simulation -Module Master Thesis (30 ECTS) Academic Research and Writing Master Thesis