MSc International Public Policy and Diplomacy

at University College Cork

The MSc in International Public Policy & Diplomacy programme is divided into two parts totalling 90 credits.
 

Part 1 (60 credits)
 

In Part 1, students take a combination of compulsory and elective modules from across the disciplines. The core modules invite you to engage with:

• the contemporary global challenges facing policymakers

• processes of government decision-making in relation to international affairs

• international economic policies and institutions

• international law

• the institutions and policies of the European Union (EU)
   

In addition, you will develop practical and analytical skills relevant to working in international affairs and gain an insight into personal and group dynamics associated with leadership.
 

You will also choose from a range of elective modules offered by a wide range of subjects including Government and Politics, Law, History, Philosophy, Sociology, Languages and many more.
 

Part 2 (30 credits)
 

Part 2 of the course challenges you to apply the skills acquired in Part 1 either by undertaking an independent research dissertation, or a work-based research dissertation as follows:

• GV6013 Work-based Dissertation in International Public Policy & Diplomacy (30 credits) or

• GV6014 Dissertation in International Public Policy & Diplomacy (30 credits)
   

On completion of the course, you will be able to identify and assess global policy challenges and global policymaking processes and will have gained expertise in analysis and evaluation, report writing, oral presentation skills and leadership.a

• The minimum requirement for applicants is a Second Class Honours Grade I in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) in any subject;

• Candidates who hold a Second Class Honours Grade II in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) will also be considered under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) subject to their 'motivation statement' and references;

• In Exceptional circumstances, substantial professional experience in a relevant field may be accepted as compensating for the absence of an undergraduate degree, subject to approval by the programme director and the College of Arts Celtic Studies and Social Science.

• All applicants will be required to submit a 'personal statement' (indicating why they are interested in taking the MSc (International Public Policy and Diplomacy) and why they think they would be suited to the programme.
   

  Minimum Requirements and Accepted English Language Tests & Examinations
  
  The minimum English language entry requirements for admission onto a postgraduate programme at UCC are outlined below. These requirements are for postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English. If Gaeilge (Irish) is your first language these requirements do not apply to you.
   

  There are a small number of programmes with a higher minimum English language entry requirement and we list these below under Programmes with a Higher Minimum English Language Requirement.
  
  IELTS*    

   

• 6.5 Overall

• 6.0 Individual Skills (academic version)
   

• TOEFL iBT    
   

• 90 Overall

• Listening 20

• Reading 19

• Speaking 21

• Writing 20

The EU fee for this course is €7,630; €3,880 (Year 1 part-time); €3,880 (Year 2 part-time).
 

The Non-EU fee for this course is €18,400.

We recognise the importance of equipping our students with the skills they need to progress following graduation. You will be given expert advice on career development by a dedicated work placement manager and also have access to UCC’s Career Services.
 

The course has established links with important international policy institutions from which you will benefit. Having completed the course, you will be a skilled analyst of international affairs and have the confidence and experience to apply that expertise in the real world.