Doctorate in International Relations & Diplomacy

The objective of the doctoral programme in international relations and diplomacy is to train researchers capable of brining a significant contribution to the study of international relations issues.

The activities of the programme are based in different methods of understanding and conceptualising of the transformation of the modern world, in particular the restructuration of the political space (questioning sovereignty, porosity of borders, transformations of power and of strength), globalisation, governance, democratic participation, redefinition of identities and affiliations, reconfiguration of government intervention and public policy.

Training will be centred on the deepening of theoretical and analytical knowledge, the development of a critical point of view and the integration of a work team. The professors and the research team of each department will guide the students.

The doctoral programme comprises seminars on different contemporary subjects as well as on research methodology which will allow students to have in-depth knowledge necessary for their thesis. By following these seminars, the doctoral students become familiar with the scientific approach.

The thesis topic must be an original research project that will contribute to the development of the field.

Research Fields

In line with the qualifications and competencies of the professors teaching at UMEF, the following research fields are currently open:

Peace and conflict
Development of land-locked countries
Corporate social responsibility
Diplomatic negotiations
The role of energy in international relations
European strategy and development

The subjects proposed to the doctoral students are those on which the research centre, SARCEO, works actively. Other subjects can be considered by the management of the academic department.

Duration of the Studies:

The duration of the studies varies from three years for full time to five years for those studying part-time. The duration of the studies may not exceed 10 semesters, unless in the case of an exception granted by the Scientific Committee or the UMEF management.

Key Points:

Organiser: School of Diplomacy
Duration of the programme: 3 Years
Faculty: International
Teaching methods: Research, Conferences, debates, case study, discussions and presentations
Teaching language: English or French
Degree earned: Doctorate in International Relations & Diplomacy (PhD)
Degree granted: By SWISS UMEF UNIVERSITY
Campus: Château d’Aïre, Geneva – Switzerland