International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy Furtwangen University

"International Relations" will enable graduates to deal with complex situations that result from globalised societies and economies. The Berlin-based "International Relations & Cultural Diplomacy" programme provides a deep understanding of international politics, society and economics with a strong intercultural focus.

"Cultural Diplomacy" facilitates and improves relationships and collaboration between disparate cultures. Together, "International Relations" and "Cultural Diplomacy" open new horizons based on intercultural understanding in a globalised society.

Semester one (30 CREDITS)

Mandatory courses for semester one

• Academic Skills & Onboarding
• Transcultural Competences
• International Relations
• Case Studies in International Relations
• The History and Evolution of the Field of Cultural Diplomacy
• International Case Studies of Cultural Diplomacy

Elective courses for semester one (students must select two)

• Nation Branding and Unilateral Cultural Diplomacy
• International Organisations
• European Politics

Semester two (30 CREDITS)

During the second semester, students will take a professional development training programme at the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy as well as two elective courses. The professional development training programme is designed individually with each student and comprises some or all of the following main components:

• Research
• Development of Cultural Diplomacy Initiative
• Participating in and contributing to ICD’s projects, activities, and conferences

Elective courses for semester two (students must select two)

• Models of Cultural Diplomacy
• Religion and Cultural Diplomacy
• Soft Power, Hard Power, and Smart Power
• Cultural Diplomacy in Conflict Zones

Semester three (30 CREDITS)

Mandatory courses for semester three

• Future Trends in International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy
• Case Studies in Future Trends
• Economics
• International Financial Markets and Institutions
• Managing Diversities
• International Law and Human Rights
• Business Simulation

Semester four (30 CREDITS)

After three semesters of academic study, you are required to complete a Master's thesis in the fourth semester, which will be an in-depth analysis on a topic of your choice related to the theme of the programme. You will be provided with guidance on how to choose an appropriate topic and how to identify and locate the necessary sources. The topic, structure, and length of each thesis will be subject to individual review and faculty mentor approval. In addition, you will take a course/workshop related to the preparation of the thesis. You will be required to defend your thesis before a panel of faculty members prior to receiving a final grade.

Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD)

Professional Development Training Programme

The professional development training programme is designed individually with each student. More information on the programme is provided in the section "Course organisation".

Applications for the MA programmes are accepted throughout the year. However, it is strongly recommended to apply as early as possible as class sizes are limited. We recommend applying by 15 July at latest for a start in the winter semester and by 15 January for a start in the summer semester.

Provided that there are still places available, applications can be considered up to two weeks before the start of the semester.
Extended admission & registration (the very latest) until: 15 May

Bachelor's degree

None