Doctor of International Relations

The doctorate at The Geneva School of Diplomacy is a prestigious, well-rounded program that offers a unique and exciting intellectual environment for the in-depth and interdisciplinary study of International Relations and Diplomacy.

GSD brings together academic excellence through meticulous independent research, and real world applicability. We confer doctoral degrees on the basis of two distinct modalities:

  • Doctor of International Relations by Research (Dissertation of 80,000 – 100.000 words)
  • Doctor of International Relations by Dossier

DIR by research

The GSD-DIR research program offers students the option to pursue their doctoral program by distance on a full-time (3 years) or part-time basis (6 years) with 9-10 mandatory on-site visits to Geneva.

The program has already attracted high skilled and experienced students from across the world. Students have developed and are carrying out research in areas as diverse as traditional and new security issues, diplomacy, political economy, human rights, geo-politics, post-colonial studies. GSD post-graduate students work closely with their assigned supervisor and work intensively to develop at the highest level the potential of each candidate, both from methodological and theoretical points of view. Doctoral students are expected to contribute to the GSD research profile by being af­filiated as Research Fellows to the Globecraft® Institute.

Entry requirements DIR by research

A first or 2:1 first degree and a MA in a subject appropriate to the course. Equivalent overseas qualifications are acceptable. A detailed research proposal (5.000 words) of your intended research together with a proof of English language proficiency is required.

Application procedure

Doctor of International Relations by dossier

The DIR by Dossier is awarded by GSD to leading authorities in the field of study concerned. This prestigious doctorate recognizes scholarly work of high distinction, impact and originality.

Entry and graduation requirement DIR by dossier

The candidate submits to GSD a dossier presenting a minimum of 8 scholarly papers published by the most representative international journals or a book published by a top publishing house. A commission formed by GSD and external examiners will be created to assess each particular case. Only outstanding work will be considered. Applicants are expected to be leading authorities in the field of study concerned.

Eligibility:

  • 10 years after obtaining a Master’s Degree from a recognized University;
  • 6 years after obtaining a Doctoral Degree from a recognized University;
  • Successful candidates will be named Honorary Research Fellows to the Globecraft® Institute.

Application procedure DIR by dossier

testimonial author
In my opinion, GSD has exactly the right approach. In the DIR programme, they focus on executives working for governments or IOs. GSD’s international faculty provides an interesting curriculum of lectures, exchange of experiences, and thesis writing and research. A couple of years as an ICRC delegate gave me some field experience, but I still lack formal training in international relations. As my unit focuses on strategic crises, does early warning, crisis management support and organizes exercises for the government, I need to have a better understanding of the international aspect of such crises. Personally, I was always interested in a cross-cultural exchange of views and ideas and it will be a pleasure to do this in the context of this Programme.
DR. NICOLAS MUELLER
Switzerland
Doctor of International Relations (DIR)
testimonial author
GSD gave me the possibility of conciliating doctoral studies with my professional life, which would have been nearly impossible in a more formal university framework. I particularly appreciated the interaction between several nationalities, experiences and professional backgrounds and the faculty’s role in facilitating and encouraging this dynamic learning experience. I would highly recommend GSD for those who firmly believe in life-long learning and a challenging + exciting educational experience!
SUZANNE ROSSELET – MCCARLEY
Doctor of International Relations (DIR) 2011
testimonial author

The best thing about GSD are the people you meet and the networks that are built.

ABENA POKU – ANUKU
Doctor of International Relations (DIR) 2014
testimonial author
I am working in the United Nations. The program, the location, and the schedule fit me perfectly as a working professional. The program will equip me with the necessary skills, such as Crisis Management, Decision Making, Leadership, Research Methods, International Negotiation, International Financing, etc, so I can apply them in my work and research in the United Nations. It is also my hope that I will be able to build up my network of professional contacts to help me in the development of my career.

GSD will push me to accelerate on many different levels. I will also be able to use a more logical & systematic approach to deal with global issues in my day to day work at the UN. I will be able to connect Management, Technology, Politics and Diplomacy — All the tools I will need for more effective decision making as a UN official.

DAVID Z. WU
Canada
Doctor of International Relations (DIR)
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