Development Studies and Diplomacy

The Master of Arts in Development Studies and Diplomacy (hybrid and online), offered by UPEACE in partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), is an interdisciplinary and holistic programme that will broaden student’s knowledge in the field of development studies, sustainability, and diplomacy, and equip them with the required soft skills for a successful international career in any of these areas of expertise.

Offered both in a Hybrid Format (asynchronous classes online and face-to-face on the UPEACE campus in Costa Rica), and an Online Format, students in this programme will analyze the different dimensions of development, including environmental, social, economic, and human dimensions, as well as the theory and practice of diplomacy in the 21st century.

Students will also attend skills development sessions and coaching sessions that are designed to support their professional careers and employability. Careers in this field can be very broad, with prospective employers including governments, international organizations, development agencies, academia, and the private sector.

Students will have an opportunity to participate in an optional field visit to Geneva (Switzerland) and/or The Hague (Netherlands), immersing themselves in the heart of diplomacy and international law.

The following documentation is required to complete your application process. Please have them ready and on hand before beginning your online application process, as they will need to be uploaded into the system.

• 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 ID purposes

The online application requires electronic (PDF) scans of required documents. Should admission be granted, the following documents will be 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 (and English translations if applicable)
• Three (3) passport-size photos.