Program Concept

In our increasingly globalized world, knowledge and understanding of bilateral and multilateral relations now holds greater importance than at any time before. As a result, international cooperation and diplomacy are now imperative in maintaining and improving the economic, political and social environment in countries worldwide. The processes of international relations pervade almost all areas of human activity, and the issues that foreign policy makers address at the highest level increasingly affect the ordinary lives of people around the world. Nation states are no longer capable of resolving many of the most significant issues single-handedly, whether they be international terrorism, global (and often national) financial crises, or climate change. Moreover, the emergence of asymmetrical security threats and the international convergence of social, political and economic relations have underlined the need for a renewed focus on diplomatic relations and soft power, of which cultural diplomacy is a crucial component.

These developments have heightened interest in the study of International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy and, concurrently, have created a need for professionals who understand those subjects. University programs striving to provide students and young leaders with the fundamental understanding and practical skills necessary for careers in international affairs have had to adjust their programs accordingly to include commerce, development and culture as topics of study, as well as including multinational and supranational organizations as additional core subjects. Expertise in one field no longer guarantees professional success, and it is therefore vital that those aspiring to work in international relations and diplomacy have an advanced understanding of a number of relevant disciplines, including, but not limited to, international politics, international economics, diplomacy, culture, philosophy and history.

Operating under a joint partnership, Bucharest University and the Academy for Cultural Diplomacy are the first institutions to offer a PhD program that will educate students from around the world in several academic disciplines related to International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy.

Structure and Organization of the Program

The Doctoral studies represent the third cycle of studies offered by (and awarded by) the University of Bucharest in partnership with the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy with the purpose of expanding knowledge through original scientific research. They allow the acquisition of a level 8 qualification according to The European Qualifications Framework and to The National Qualifications Framework.

The PHD research will be done under one of the following departments of the university; Political Science/ Sociology/ History/ Philosophy/ Philology/ Communications science or other relevant Department of the Interdisciplinary School of Doctoral Studies of the University of Bucharest, according to the specialization of the appropriate Doctoral Supervisor and your research topic, and will have a special concentration in International Relations and Cultural Diplomacy though the research topic and the courses held at the ICD Academy.
The Study and research are organized in all 19 specific doctoral fields in which the University of Bucharest provides doctoral studies, but also in Interdisciplinary Research Training Groups (IRTGs). These groups are formed by at least three supervisors from distinct fields and are focused on a research theme that requires an interdisciplinary approach, for the following fields: Educational Sciences, History, Philosophy, Political Science, and Sociology.

Students are welcome to join their committee members of their network, in coordination with the main supervisor.

The Doctoral studies span over 4 years (valid from academic year 25-26) , and represent the third cycle of studies offered by (and awarded by) the University of Bucharest in partnership with the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy with the purpose of expanding knowledge through original scientific research. They allow the acquisition of a level 8 qualification according to The European Qualifications Framework and to The National Qualifications Framework.

It aims at the formation of professional and transversal competencies in an interdisciplinary context.

It has two parts:

(a) an interdisciplinary training program based on advanced university studies;

(b) an individual scientific research program. The courses and activities included in these programs are associated with a corresponding specific numerical value – numbers of credits (ECTS)– which are earned by the students after their successful completion. All students must earn at least 240 credits through participation in these two programs, in order to complete the doctoral program.

1). The training program based on advanced university studies includes courses and training activities meant to achieve a high level of knowledge in the field, necessary in the research activity, and which are generally taught in the first year. Each study program has a section dedicated to courses and designed to enhance the research activity of our students.

2). The scientific research program involves the participation of the Ph.D. student in one or more research projects established by the steering committee.
The activities of the scientific research program amount to at least 210 credits (ECTS), with equivalent possibilities, according to the law.
After enrollment, the student will consult with your supervisor and steering committee and establish an individual training plan which will serve as a general guideline for your doctoral course. 

Key Objectives of the Program

• To provide students with an in depth understanding of the theory and practice of international relations within the contemporary interdependent world, placing a particular emphasis on cultural diplomacy within this framework
• To educate students about cultural diplomacy within the context of the political, economic and cultural pillars upon which sustainable international relations are based.
• To analyze soft power and hard power strategies within international relations discourse.
• To examine contemporary obstacles to peaceful international relations, using historical and modern case studies, while considering also how cultural diplomacy can be used to mitigate tension and conflict within the international community.
• To equip students with the relevant skill sets and knowledge required to embark on a career within the highly competitive international arena.
• To provoke individual thought and reflection on contemporary issues within the rapidly developing field of cultural diplomacy.

Benefits of the Program

• The program offers students a core curriculum of International Relations, which will prepare them for a vast array of career opportunities worldwide.
• Students will have access to an expert faculty with experience in international politics and diplomacy, and will acquire the knowledge and skills needed to work in a complex global environment.
• Students will obtain expertise in cultural diplomacy, as a rapidly increasing and important field relevant to the public and private sectors and civil society.
• Graduates will discover that the curriculum and faculty prepare them for evolving careers in academia and all public and private international sectors.
• Access to all ICD events and programs around the world, providing students with access to prominent experts in the field including various Heads of State, Ministers, and CEOs.

Contact Us

For further information on the PhD program with the concentration on Cultural Diplomacy and International Relations, please send an email to communication@culturaldiplomacy.org