Master of Arts in
Diplomacy and Strategic Affairs
Lead in Diplomacy and Global Strategy
See the BA/MA Dual Degree Curriculum!
About the Program
For Aspiring Diplomats
The Master of Arts in Diplomacy and Strategic Affairs (MDSA) at the University of St. Thomas in Houston is a 30-credit interdisciplinary graduate program that develops the analytical, strategic, and leadership skills required to address today’s most pressing international challenges. Designed for aspiring diplomats, public servants, policy professionals, and leaders in the private and nonprofit sectors, the program combines rigorous academic training with practical applications in diplomacy, foreign policy, and international security.
Our Curriculum
Diplomacy, Global Governance
The curriculum provides a strong foundation in diplomacy, strategic studies, foreign policy analysis, and global governance through a combination of theoretical and applied coursework. Core courses include Introduction to Diplomacy and Strategic Policy, Analytics in Strategic Affairs, Advanced Seminar in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies, The American Foreign Policy Process, and a culminating Capstone Project. Throughout diplomacy and strategic affairs master’s program, students develop the ability to evaluate complex policy issues, formulate strategic recommendations, and make informed decisions in an increasingly interconnected and dynamic international environment.
Student Experience
Chart Your International Path
A defining strength of the MDSA program is its interdisciplinary flexibility. Students tailor their studies through electives in areas such as international law, international political economy, comparative politics, intercultural communication, international security, and the strategic dynamics of East Asia. This broad curriculum enables students to develop expertise aligned with their professional interests while gaining a comprehensive understanding of contemporary global affairs.
The program culminates in a capstone experience in which students conduct original research on a significant diplomatic or strategic issue. Working closely with faculty mentors, they produce a professional-quality policy white paper and presentation designed for policymakers, government agencies, international organizations, or other professional audiences. This applied research experience strengthens students’ analytical, writing, and communication skills while demonstrating their ability to translate scholarship into practical policy recommendations.
Career Opportunities
Become a Foreign Affairs Leader
Graduates of the MDSA program are well prepared for diplomacy and global affairs careers, foreign affairs, public policy, government service, international organizations, global business, intelligence and security analysis, nonprofit leadership, and related fields. The program also provides an excellent foundation for students pursuing doctoral study in international relations, political science, public policy, or other disciplines related to global affairs.
Learn from the experts
Diplomacy and Strategic Affairs Leadership
Dr. Yao-Yuan Yeh
Dr. Yao-Yuan Yeh currently serves as a tenured professor and the Fayez Sarofim – Cullen Trust for Higher Education Endowed Chair in International Studies at University of St. Thomas, Houston. He is also the Chair of the Department of Political Science, International Studies, and Modern Languages, Director of the Master’s Program in Diplomacy and Strategic Affairs, Director of the Taiwan and East Asia Studies Program, and Director of the Mandarin Center jointly operated by the University of St. Thomas and Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages.