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Master of Arts

International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy

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Understand and communicate

Are you interested in the exciting world of cultural diplomacy? "Cultural Diplomacy" qualifies you to improve relations and cooperation between different countries and cultures. We'll teach you to understand the connection between international business and cultural diplomacy, which will enable you to enter the sensitive field of international relations!

  • ECTS: 90 ECTS or 120 ECTS
  • Programme duration: 3 or 4 semesters
  • Campus: External
  • Faculty: -
  • Programme begins: Summer semester (March), Winter semester (September)
  • Application deadline: 15 July (winter semester), 15 January (summer semester)
  • Entry requirements: bachelor's degree
  • Teaching language: English
  • Accreditation: yes
  • Formats: Professional development
  • Flexible expertise In this master's programme, you'll build up your expertise in international relations and global business. We place particular emphasis on flexibility and a strong intercultural focus!
  • In the heart of the capital Our university campuses are located in southern Germany, but we run this programme on the campus of our partner organisation, the ICD. We give you the opportunity to study ‘Cultural Diplomacy’ in the heart of the German capital, a European metropolis, and to build your international network there.
  • Two timelines You should plan four semesters for your path to a master's. Depending on your previous qualifications (studies and practical experience), the programme can also be shortened to three semesters.
  • Strong partners In Berlin, you will be taught by HFU professors with experience in international organisations. The programme is organised jointly with the "Institute for Cultural Diplomacy".

Your key contacts

You're interested in business and international relations? We're happy to advise you!

Dr. Armin Müller
Dr. Armin Müller Head of the HFU Academy
Prof. Dr. Frank Kramer
Prof. Dr. Frank Kramer Deputy Dean of Studies:
International Business Management (BA) (IBM)
International Business (BA) (IBW)
Academic coordinator IEBCD & IRCD programmes
+49 7723 920-2675 Mail ebcd-ircd(at)hs-furtwangen.de

Details of the International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy programme

Content and structure

In addition to lectures and seminars, the focus of this programme is on exchange and communication. We discuss current international topics with specialists from the fields of international relations, economics, communication, politics, human rights, culture, peacebuilding, multilateral diplomacy, conflict resolution and development.

First electives

The first semester of ICRD focuses on topics such as the history and development of the field of cultural diplomacy and future trends. We work on international case studies, and you can choose between electives such as Nation Branding, International Organisations, Foreign Policy and European Politics.

Your area of specialisation

In the second semester, course participants take two electives and a further development programme at the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy. You will be involved in subject areas such as research or the development of campaigns or projects. Electives allow you to specialise further in various areas of cultural diplomacy.

More in-depth knowledge

In the third semester, we deepen your knowledge in the following subjects: International Relations, Political Economy, Financial Markets and Institutions, Intercultural Communication, Managing Cultural Diversity, International Business Strategy, Business Simulation and Academic Research and Writing.

Your master's thesis

After three semesters of theory, your master's thesis is due in the fourth semester! We will advise you on the choice of topic for this in-depth analysis, offer workshops to help you prepare, and guide you in your search for sources. You will defend your thesis in front of a faculty committee before you receive your final grade.

Entry requirements

For admission to the programme, applicants must provide supporting documents demonstrating a level of English proficiency which will enable them to participate in the programme in that language (i.e. CEFR level B2 and an IELTS score of 6.0, or an equivalent level in other tests).

A detailed introductory interview may be required.

Download file:There is no enrollment for IRCD. You will be registered in the programme at Furtwangen University as an external, non-enrolled participant in accordance with Download file:Section 33 of the Higher Education Act (LHG) (External Examinations).

Fees

Different programme fees apply for the two options, Regular and Fast Track: 

Regular (four semesters):
The total cost is €12,000: €6,000 before the first semester and €6,000 before the third semester

Fast Track (three semesters):
The total cost is €9,000: €4,500 before the start of the first semester and €4,500 before the second semester
 

§ 5 Reimbursement in accordance with Fee Regulations
If a participant withdraws from the programme during the semester, reimbursement will be provided if, at the time of withdrawal, the lecture period has not yet begun.

Information on reimbursements can be found in the Download file:Fee Regulations under § 5 Reimbursements.

What's covered
Special features

Our cooperation partner

The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy ICD
The ICD was founded in 1999 with the aim of promoting peace and stability in the world by strengthening and supporting intercultural relations at all levels. The ICD is an international, non-profit, non-governmental organisation based in the international and intercultural capital of Germany, Berlin. The ICD believes that intercultural and intracultural relationships can be strengthened, maintained and promoted through dialogue therefore aiming to bring people from all walks of life together to start this dialogue. This type of dialogue leads to better understanding and greater trust between cultures, prevents misunderstandings, improves communication and cooperation and helps reduce the likelihood of socio-cultural conflicts.

Your career prospects

Start your international career

This programme prepares you for careers in diverse fields, for example as experts in international relations, politics and culture, cultural studies, business and the financial sector. Your expertise is particularly in demand at governmental and non-governmental institutions with international responsibilities and in international business. Look forward to exciting opportunities worldwide!

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