Programme Introduction
Jointly offered by the Faculty of Social Science and the Faculty of Law, the Diplomacy and International Studies Programme (DIPL) is an interdisciplinary programme leading to a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science. In response to the expeditious developments in geopolitics, this Programme aims to nurture high-calibre talents equipped with a global perspective, an international mindset, strong intercultural competence, and the ability to excel in international organizations and diplomatic settings. Students will receive a comprehensive education in diplomacy, international governance, law, regional studies, and interpersonal and intercultural competence, ensuring that they gain a well-rounded understanding of international affairs and diplomatic practices from multiple perspectives.
Programme Features
The DIPL Programme emphasizes the integration of Theory and Practice.
The Programme provides an interdisciplinary curriculum that covers core areas in social sciences such as international relations, national security, international political economy, regional geopolitics, cultural and political psychology, and mediation and conflict resolution, as well as law courses such as public international law and international economic law. Students will develop the ability to analyze global affairs from both social science and legal perspectives, and understand comprehensively the principles, legal frameworks, operational rules, and competencies of international institutions, treaties, and multilateral agreements.
The Programme also places strong emphasis on experiential learning through internships, summer course(s) and exchange programmes. Students may intern at embassies, consulates, and international organizations such as UNESCO, WHO, and IMF, and receive professional training at the China Foreign Affairs University in the form of required summer course(s). Students will gain insight into the main ideas of diplomatic practices and lay a solid foundation for understanding China affairs on the global stage. Students will also participate in exchange programmes, studying outside Hong Kong for one academic term in a partner institution such as Leiden University and Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands, the University of Delaware in the United States, and Moscow State Institute of International Relations in Russia, and will be exposed to learning experiences in both China and international settings.
Career Prospects
Graduates are expected to become diplomatic talents well-versed in international affairs while simultaneously carrying a focused understanding of China. The Programme prepares graduates for careers in diplomacy and international affairs, while also opening doors to a wide range of sectors including:
- Government Organizations
- International Organizations
- Multinational Corporations
- Policy Think Tanks
- Consulting Firms
- Local and International NGOs
- Cultural and International Exchange Organizations
- Teaching and Research in Universities
- Mass Communication/ Public Relations
- Postgraduate Studies in Related Fields (e.g., Diplomacy, International Relations, or Law)
If you are interested in this programme, please review the application requirements and deadlines specific to the respective admission scheme to increase your chances of getting accepted.
