How to Know if You Should Pursue a Diplomacy Career

As an adventurous individual with a passion for international affairs, diplomacy could be a fit for you

For many who study international relations or international public policy, a career in diplomacy seems like an obvious goal.  With the opportunity to travel, work in truly international scenarios, and support important cooperative institutions, diplomacy can be the optimal field of work for the right type of ambitious professional.

Professionals working in international diplomacy fill a variety of different roles and come from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds.

If you are considering pursuing a career in this area after completing your studies, or simply wondering whether it should be on your radar, keep reading to learn more about the characteristics and qualifications that can make someone a good fit for the demands of diplomacy.

You Have the Patience to Endure a Potentially Lengthy Qualifying Process

An important thing to keep in mind is that qualifications for diplomatic careers differ between countries, as well as depending on what type of role or placement you would be taking on. In both the US and the UK, for example, there are a range of initial assessments that are competitive and can take a significant amount of time to complete.

In the UK, candidates applying to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) undergo two questionnaires as well as multiple assessment exercises.

In the US, individuals interested in working in this area must apply to the United States Foreign Service, and sit a four-part aptitude exam that covers everything from history to politics to geography to current affairs.

This is one instance where postgraduate qualifications in International Relations or International Public Policy could really help you on your way to a career in diplomacy.

Your Degree Has Inspired You to Travel

If you are drawn to an international relations or international public policy degree because of a love for exploring and understanding other perspectives and places, then a diplomacy career may be a good fit for you.

Diplomats, foreign service officers, civil service officers, and other professionals working in this field can be placed anywhere in the world, often for postings of between 1-3 years.

For an adventurous spirit, this frequent relocation can represent an exciting opportunity to discover places you may otherwise have never visited, let alone inhabited.

Master’s graduates have progressed to a wide range of international careers in diplomacy and beyond, such as a posting at the United Nations in Peru.

A diplomacy career gives you the chance to work abroad and explore international contexts

You Have an Aptitude for  Current Affairs

As previously mentioned, there is no specific required academic path for professionals in the diplomacy field in most countries.

However, international relations or international public policy are some of the most common areas of study for successful applicants, as they equip students with expert knowledge and critical skills that are highly relevant to diplomatic work.

For example, the MA in International Relations offered by QMUL Online includes modules in Contemporary World Politics as well as International Security, both of which are important subjects for those working in diplomatic roles to be familiarised with.

Studying international relations can serve as a useful foundation for a future in diplomacy

You Are Able to Balance a Competitive Spirit with a Congenial Demeanour

Finally, it takes a particular personality and approach to interpersonal interactions to really thrive in diplomatic work. While postings and responsibilities vary, getting your foot in the door at any diplomatic career is a competitive process.

Further, healthy competition with your colleagues for promotions and preferred placements is likely, and will be more enjoyable for individuals who find competition to be a motivating force.

As the name of the field suggests, however, being able to channel the intensity of your work into constructive, gracious interactions with your colleagues and international counterparts is critical, as any diplomatic role involves acting in a representative capacity for your state.

International relations and international public policy graduates have gained exposure to critical thinking skills and contextual knowledge of international global issues that can be very helpful for striking this balance. This makes diplomacy a very compelling career in which to apply your knowledge and take an active role in global state interactions.

You can start a part-time, online MA in International Relations or MSc in International Public Policy with Queen Mary in May or September. Contact our course adviser team now to find out more.