International Relations and Diplomacy (Master)
Manufacture des Tabacs Campus, France
Master in International Relations and Diplomacy
Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University
International Relations and Diplomacy
Master in International Relations and Diplomacy at Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University
The Master in International Relations and Diplomacy (RID) at Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University is the diplomatic track of the broader International Relations master program, housed within the prestigious Faculty of Law. This two-year program provides students with a deep understanding of geopolitics, international relations theory, foreign policy formulation, diplomatic negotiations, and regional international configurations.
The first year establishes a common foundation across all nine tracks of the International Relations master, covering essential topics such as international security, defense, foreign policy, crisis management, cybersecurity, international political economy, cultural diversity, and Francophonie. The second year focuses on the diplomacy specialization, deepening knowledge in diplomatic practice, treaty law, and contemporary geopolitics while requiring a research dissertation and encouraging internship experience.
Graduates develop advanced analytical, synthesis, and argumentation skills applicable to any international relations or diplomacy dossier. The program prepares students for careers as experts and risk analysts in public and private international organizations, for competitive examinations to enter international or European civil service, and for diplomatic careers.
Key Program Highlights
- Specialized diplomatic track within one of France's leading International Relations programs with nine distinct specialization pathways
- Comprehensive curriculum blending geopolitics, diplomatic negotiations, foreign policy analysis, and international relations theory
- Students organize a Diplomacy Colloquium and complete a research dissertation under faculty supervision
- Strong English language component integrated into every semester alongside professional development modules
Curriculum and Modules
The Master in International Relations and Diplomacy is structured across four semesters totaling 120 ECTS credits. The first year provides a shared foundation in international relations, while the second year delivers specialized coursework in diplomacy, foreign policy, and treaty law, culminating in a research dissertation.
Foreign Policy and Protocol
12 ECTS (shared unit)This module defines the concept of foreign policy and examines the protocol modalities of international negotiations. Students study the foreign policy of selected states based on current affairs to illustrate general principles.
Theories of International Relations
12 ECTS (shared unit)Students explore the conceptual evolution of international relations theories and the rise of new analytical frameworks. The course provides a critical understanding of how different theoretical lenses shape interpretations of global affairs.
Diplomatic Negotiations
12 ECTS (shared unit)This elective module covers the art and practice of diplomatic negotiations, equipping students with practical skills in mediation, conflict resolution, and multilateral negotiation processes.
Contemporary Geopolitics of International Relations
4 ECTSA common course studying the key objects of international relations and territorial stakes. Students analyze current geopolitical dynamics and their implications for international stability and cooperation.
Diplomacy and Treaties
8 ECTS (shared unit)This course examines the tools of diplomatic negotiation and the legal nature of international instruments and agreements. Students study how treaties are drafted, negotiated, and implemented within the international legal framework.
Regional International Configurations
8 ECTS (shared unit)This module presents the theory of regional groupings and examines specific world regions, regional intergovernmental organizations, or empirical regional projects in depth.
Elective Modules and Complementary Studies
Admission Requirements
The Master in International Relations and Diplomacy is a selective program. Admission is based on a thorough review of academic records, motivation, professional project, research interests, and relevant experience. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, your single point of contact for guidance and support throughout the process.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationBachelor's degree (Licence) in Political Science, Law, History, Geography, Applied Foreign Languages (LEA), or Social Sciences
- Academic LevelMinimum Bac+3 (180 ECTS) or equivalent international qualification
- Selection CriteriaAcademic grades, motivation letter, professional project, research proposal, and relevant experience in international affairs
- Selection ProcessCompetitive admission based on dossier review; the program is selective from the first year
- M2 ProgressionStudents who validate both semesters of M1 are admitted to M2 by right in their chosen track
Language Requirements
- French ProficiencyFull mastery of French is required; TCF Level 3 minimum or DELF B2 or equivalent for non-native speakers
- English ProficiencyGood command of English is required; English modules are integrated into every semester of the program
- Additional LanguagesKnowledge of additional foreign languages is an asset but not mandatory
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Several funding opportunities are available to support international students pursuing the Master in International Relations and Diplomacy at Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University. France offers generous public funding schemes, and additional options may be available through Uni4Edu partnerships.
French Government Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship program is funded by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. It supports outstanding international students pursuing master-level studies in France, covering a monthly allowance and various benefits.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The Master in International Relations and Diplomacy prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and global affairs. The program develops expertise in analysis, synthesis, and argumentation of international dossiers, equipping you with the skills demanded by employers in the public and private sectors.
Typical Career Roles
Potential Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University is a well-established public university in France, recognized for its strengths in law, political science, and management. It is a member of the Coimbra Group and the European University Association, and welcomes over 27,000 students including more than 4,000 international students across its campuses in Lyon.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business and Management Studies | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #501 |
| International Security and Defense (Master) | SMBG/Eduniversal (France) | Top 5 |
| Business and Economics | THE World University Rankings by Subject | #601 |
| Law | National Reputation (France) | Among top French law faculties — contact Uni4Edu for current data |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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