Summer Diplomatic Academy

A Practical Training Program for Students and Early-Career Professionals

The Summer Diplomatic Academy is an exceptional opportunity for those interested in international engagement to learn from career ambassadors with decades of experience. The world needs diplomacy more than ever, and WIDA aims to train the next generation of diplomats.

This unique and intensive practical professional training program introduces undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates, to careers in international diplomacy and teaches key skill sets. It covers the fundamentals of diplomatic practice and focuses on real-world aspects of work in embassies, consulates, government agencies, international organizations and global NGOs. The material emphasizes a skills-based and experiential-learning approach, and is generally not offered at colleges and universities.

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 and other competencies.

Short of actually working in diplomacy, there is no other place to learn what we teach. The program also includes career-counseling sessions. Students receive certificates from the Academy.

In person & online

The program is offered both virtually and in person. It includes two 90-minute sessions per day (with one 30-minute break), Monday through Friday. The sessions are held live, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Washington, D.C., time.

PROGRAM SESSIONS

Tuition fee: $4,250
The fee includes the cost of all sessions and study materials, except for books.


Hotel accommodation for in-person classes
For students participating in the program in person, we offer hotel packages at additional cost. Once you are accepted, we will provide more details. Students may also make their own travel arrangements.
Fees

APPLICATION PROCESS

Undergraduate and graduate students, recent graduates and early-career professionals are eligible to apply to the Summer Diplomatic Academy. Previous coursework in political science, international relations or related fields is highly desirable, but not required.

Applications must include a completed application form and a CV or résumé. A cover letter or personal statement, explaining how the academy will help you achieve your career goals (up to 500 words), is strongly encouraged but not required. We reserve the right to ask for such a statement if we believe it will strengthen your application.

Both U.S. and foreign citizens may apply. Fluency in English is required.

Application fee: $35

Application deadline: 31 March 2024

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