One-Year Certificate in International Diplomacy

A Postgraduate Professional Training Program

Our One-Year Certificate in International Diplomacy is an exceptional opportunity to spend two semesters learning from and working with career ambassadors with decades of experience. Short of actually working in diplomacy, this is the most comprehensive, in-depth and hands-on practical professional training program in diplomatic tradecraft offered anywhere.

The world needs diplomacy more than ever, and WIDA aims to train the next generation of diplomats. This program prepares students for careers in diplomacy and international affairs, including work in government ministries, embassies and consulates, international organizations and global NGOs. It includes four courses during each of the two semesters, creating optimal conditions for highly interactive, immersive and experiential learning.

Our instructors are ambassadors and other professional diplomats who have served in dozens of countries around the world. They teach the skills they learned by practicing diplomacy and managing international relations for decades, with simulation exercises and case studies derived from their own careers. They provide invaluable first-hand insight into policy-making and implementation, diplomatic protocol, the functions and management of embassies and consulates, diplomatic reporting and writing, negotiation and mediation, political and economic tradecraft, public diplomacy, cross-cultural communication, cyber diplomacy and other competencies.

The program also includes individual and group career-counseling sessions.

WIDA does not confer academic degrees.

Certificate Requirements

In order to earn a Certificate of Professional Training in International Diplomacy, students are required to take four courses per semester. Each course is worth 3 credits. A total of 24 credits are needed to graduate. Instruction in each course is 3 hours a week. There are two 90-minute sessions a day, with a 30-minute break, Monday through Thursday.

Hybrid of In-Person and Online Classes​

The program is held both in person and online. The class will meet in person in Washington, D.C., during the first two weeks of the program in September/ October, as well as the last two weeks in April/May. The rest of the classes will be held online. Please see the calendar below. Students have the option of taking all classes online.

CALENDAR & COURSES

WHO SHOULD APPLY?

Professionals and recent graduates who have earned a bachelor’s (or higher) degree are eligible to apply for the One-Year Certificate Program in International Diplomacy. Previous coursework in political science, international relations or related fields is highly desirable, but not required. Both U.S. and foreign citizens may apply. Fluency in English is required.

Tuition fee: $27,500

The fee includes the cost of tuition for all courses, as well as all study materials (except for recommended books). For students who have completed a shorter WIDA course, such as the Summer Diplomatic Academy, the full amount paid for that course will be credited toward the one-year tuition fee.
FEES

APPLICATION PROCESS

You may apply either for the full two-semester program or for the Fall semester only. However, priority will be given to candidates for both semesters. Applicants for the Spring semester only must have completed the Fall semester previously or served as diplomats at a mission abroad for a minimum of 5 years.

Application Form, CV/Résumé and Cover Letter

Please complete the application form, which requires you to upload a CV or résumé, as well as a cover letter or personal statement, explaining how the Academy will help you achieve your career goals (up to 500 words).

Virtual Interview

If the Selection Committee advances your application, you will be invited to a virtual interview with one or more committee members, who will make a final decision.

Application fee: $55

Deadline for early admission: 31 January 2025

Deadline for regular admission: 31 March 2025

During in-person classes, both individual and shared accommodation is available. Candidates admitted to the program will receive up-to-date rates and other details before enrollment. Students may arrange their housing independently.
ACCOMMODATION

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