Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy (CISD) at SOAS University of London

Our Centre Director says:

All our postgraduate programmes aim is to deliver cross-disciplinary teaching and learning that combines an understanding of key concepts, theories and debates with effective practical skills training.

We understand that choosing to study for a Masters is a big decision. If you are interested in studying at the Centre, we would be delighted to discuss with you any queries you have whether in person, on the phone or by Skype. To arrange an appointment with the Centre Director, Dan Plesch, or one of our degree convenors please contact us on the details below. Alternatively, contact us to speak with our dedicated student support officer for general information about applying and contacting recent alumni from your own country.

Dr Dan Plesch explains what it is like to study International Studies and Diplomacy at SOAS

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Dr Dan Plesch, Director of CISD at SOAS University of London talks about the masters programme

CISD Programmes

Facts and figures

Research

CISD staff conduct ground breaking research in a number of areas and these can be reviewed on our research pages.
The following Academics have written a book in the past year: Dr Ashley Cox, Dr Avinash Paliwal, Dr Dan Plesch and Dr J. Simon Rofe. List of CISD publications.
Volunteer opportunities for Centre research projects addressing themes such as global disarmament, war crimes, and corporate accountability.
CISD welcomes applications from prospective MPhil/PhD students wishing to undertake multi-disciplinary research in areas of global studies that relate to the research interests of Centre members and the Centre’s research programmes

Teaching

In addition to SOAS wide activities and services, students have access to a range of activities organised exclusively for CISD students and included in the programme fee.

These include:

Week long European Study Tour visiting international organisations such as the United Nations, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development or the European Commission.
Communication and media skills training by current and former BBC staff.
CISD offers its students the opportunity to take a language short course in the Language Centre, for one term, at no additional cost.
Media internship with SOAS Radio, an online station and social media enterprise.
Volunteer opportunities for Centre research projects addressing themes such as global disarmament, war crimes, and corporate accountability.
Guest lectures by leading scholars and senior practitioners, as well as our Annual Lecture and networking reception (listen to recent CISD podcasts).
Alumni networking events such as our annual Alumni reception or Alumni-led careers workshops.
The online programmes delivered by the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy (CISD) in association with the FCO's Diplomatic Academy, use a combination of multi-disciplinary teaching, cutting-edge research and public discussion of diplomacy and international politics in a globalised world

Alumni and student stories

Alessandra Awolowo

"CISD staff and the lecturers are super-dedicated and approachable, ready to make you feel part of the family. "

I had been looking for a qualification that would enhance my employability in the private sector for some time. I believe I found it in the Globalisation and Multinational Corporations programme at CISD.
Kristale Ivezaj

"Nowhere in the world will you have the chance to meet so many helpful and caring staff, people who are truly interested in seeing you succeed. "

The academics at the Centre don't simply prepare you to pass the course, but are concerned with communicating the real-world applications of their subjects in order to equip you as well as possible for your future career.
Charles Malissard

"CISD opened my eyes on the multitude of world visions, and helped me develop, articulate and believe in my own."

This MA tought me the essential skills of diplomacy practice and the founding theoretical ideologies through which international relations are interpreted.
Chloe McWeeny

"I gained academic and personal skills which I am now using on a day-to-day basis in my professional activities."

The MA International Studies and Diplomacy was perfect as it provided a great opportunity to meet with an extraordinary diverse group of students and lecturers in a privileged environment.
Catherine Ogden

"At an academic and social level, the SOAS experience definitely exceeded my expectations!"

The GMC programme's inter-disciplinary approach is extremely valuable in creating an understanding of the complexities involved in trying to legislate for corporate responsibility and accountability.
Yi Xie

"CISD is a unique place where the West meets the East. Wherever you are from, you could feel that you are welcomed, accepted, and appreciated."

"Thinking Globally, Acting Globally", the MA in International Studies and Diplomacy programme has enabled me to interact with various academics and practitioners in international politics and economics.
Marie-Angele Thomas MA International Studies and Diplomacy

"SOAS is the best place to learn about other cultures, not just through its courses but through the various social activities and interactions."

I have really enjoyed the busy social calendar here. There are many so many events organised by societies where there was always the opportunity to learn about new countries and regions and sample a taste of their gastronomy.
Cornelia Rottenmoser MSc in Global Energy and Climate Policy

"Having been part of SOAS is something I never want to miss in my life and whenever passing through London I will come back “home” to SOAS for a visit."

The quality of education and the reputation of the college are excellent and the teaching excels by far what I expected before becoming a SOASian. SOAS is incredibly diverse yet specialised in its approaches to studying the social sciences and the arts.
Alice Huang MSc International Studies and Diplomacy

"SOAS attracts such high calibre students with international backgrounds, I have not only enjoyed socialising with my classmates, but have learnt much from them as well."

I chose SOAS to pursue my postgraduate studies because of the school’s outstanding reputation globally, its Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy with its pertinent programme that combines theory and practical application, taught by a faculty with exceptional backgrounds.