Diplomacy & Strategic Affairs
Learn to solve strategic Interstate Conflicts
About the Program
Understand How Cultures Interact
The mission of the Diplomacy & Strategic Affairs Program is to prepare learners with advanced knowledge and skills with which to effectively understand and engage in international and cross-cultural transactions. The primary goals of this program are to:
- Train learners to view global issues and conflicts through a holistic interdisciplinary prism
- Apply diverse methods to understanding key issues and solutions
- Promote diplomacy and diplomatic behaviors as central to effective problem solving.
Ultimately, graduates will be better prepared to understand how global issues impact issues and activities relevant to their personal and career interests and to apply this knowledge to more effectively interact with international teams, corporations, and/or governments.
The Ust advantage
A Strong Foundation in International Affairs
The Diplomacy Program at the University of St. Thomas in Houston is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for careers in international affairs, foreign service, global business, and related fields. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in international studies through required coursework in international politics, intercultural issues, American foreign policy, and the historical role of the United States in world affairs. Students develop an understanding of political, cultural, and strategic dimensions of global engagement while strengthening their analytical and communication skills. The major also allows students to explore specialized topics through electives such as international law, international institutions, international security, human rights, diplomatic tradecraft, global conflict resolution, cybersecurity in East Asia, and international political economy.
Ranking as
Best Social Service Job
Annual Median Salary
For Political Scientists
Of Policitical Scientists
Work in the Federal Government
Student experience
Get to Know the World
A distinctive feature of the program is its emphasis on language proficiency and experiential learning. Students complete four sequential courses in a foreign language, reflecting the program’s view that effective communication across cultures is essential for diplomatic work. In addition, every diplomacy major must participate in a practical international experience, such as studying abroad, completing an internship in international business, or undertaking a structured experience overseas. By combining rigorous academic study, foreign-language training, and real-world international exposure, the program equips graduates with the knowledge, cultural competence, and professional skills needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected global environment.