University for Peace offers a Master of Arts in International Law and Diplomacy program that is available in both hybrid and online formats. This program allows students to specialize in the intersection of international law and diplomacy. It aims to enhance students' understanding of international law and its various dimensions, while also equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills for careers in diplomacy and related fields.
The program covers a wide range of topics, including the different dimensions of development, such as environmental, social, economic, and human dimensions. It also explores the theory and practice of diplomacy in the 21st century, including dispute settlement and conflict resolution.
In addition to the academic curriculum, students will have access to skills development and coaching sessions to support their professional growth and employability.
As part of the program, students will have the opportunity to participate in an optional field visit to Geneva, Switzerland, and/or The Hague, Netherlands. This immersive experience will allow them to gain firsthand exposure to the world of diplomacy and international law.
The hybrid program will be conducted both face-to-face on the UPEACE campus in San José, Costa Rica, and online through UPEACE's Virtual Learning Environment. The program follows a specific course list that covers various aspects of international law and diplomacy, including public international law, human rights law, international criminal law, and international environmental law, among others.
By offering both hybrid and online formats, the University for Peace provides flexibility and accessibility to students who wish to pursue a Master of Arts in International Law and Diplomacy.
Click here for the Hybrid M.A. in International Law and Diplomacy Calendar for 2024-2026.
Online Programme Modules
The ONLINE Master of Arts in International Law and Diplomacy will be conducted virtually. All courses will be available on UPEACE’s Virtual Learning Environment.
Course List:
1. Public International Law (UPEACE)
2. International Human Rights Law (UPEACE)
3. Foundation Course (UPEACE)
4. UN System (UPEACE)
5. Law Related to Armed Conflict I (Ius ad Bellum) (UPEACE)
6. Law Related to Armed Conflict II (Ius in Bello) (UPEACE)
7. International Criminal Law (UPEACE)
8. Law of Treaties (UNITAR)
9. International Environmental Law (UPEACE)
10. Transitional Justice (UPEACE)
11. International Law and Diplomacy (UPEACE)
12. Globalization and Human Rights (UPEACE)
13. Regional Human Rights Systems (UPEACE)
14. World Politics (UPEACE)
15. International and Transnational Adjudication (UPEACE)
16. International Economic Law (UPEACE)
17. Human Rights Reporting, Monitoring and Evaluation (UPEACE)
18. Maritime and Territorial Dispute Settlement (UPEACE)
19. Workshop on Negotiation and Mediation Skills (UPEACE)
20. Law of International Organisations (UNITAR)
21. Rule of Law (UNITAR)
22. Independent Research Project (UPEACE)
* Optional Course
Click here for the Online M.A. in International Law and Diplomacy Calendar for 2024-2026.
Field Visits
Students enrolled in the program have the opportunity to participate in an optional field visit to Geneva, Switzerland, and/or The Hague, Netherlands, where they can immerse themselves in diplomacy and international law.
The five-day field trip(s) cost USD 1,500 each and include exclusive experiences such as visits to various international organizations, the ICRC museum in Geneva, the ICJ in The Hague, and networking sessions with diplomats, personnel from permanent missions accredited to the UN, civil servants in international organizations, and representatives from civil society.
Scheduled for the summer, the confirmed dates for these optional field visits will be communicated to interested students by UPEACE and UNITAR Students can opt to participate in either the Geneva or The Hague visit separately, or they have the option to join both field trips to enhance their educational experience.
Please be aware that the fellowship program does not cover travel, accommodation, meals, or visa costs. Students need to possess a valid health insurance policy while residing in Switzerland and/or The Netherlands.
Necessary Documentation
To finalize your application, the following documents are required. Please ensure you have them prepared before commencing the online application process, as they will need to be uploaded:
- English Proficiency Test Scores Report: TOEFL (PBT, CBT or IBT), IELTS, Duolingo English Test, Pearson Test of English or Cambridge English Language Assessment
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation
- Official Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree) Transcripts and Degree Certificate
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume
- Copy of Passport (front page with photo only)
- One passport-size photo for identification purposes
The online application necessitates electronic (PDF) scans of the necessary documents. If admission is granted, the following documents will eventually be required in official hard copy:
- English Proficiency Test Scores Report: TOEFL (PBT, CBT or IBT), IELTS, Duolingo English Test, Pearson Test of English or Cambridge English Language Assessment (if applicable)
- Official Undergraduate Transcripts and Degree Certificate (including English translations if necessary)
- Three (3) passport-size photos
For a comprehensive list of all admission requirements, please refer to the UPEACE Admission Requirements page.
We regret to inform you that we are unable to disclose information regarding applicant status over the phone or to third parties. Information will solely be shared with the applicant via the email provided in the online application form. For any inquiries, please contact admissions@upeace.org.
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