This interdisciplinary English-taught master's brings together international economics, business and cultural diplomacy to prepare students for the challenges of a globalised economy. The programme trains you to analyse and manage complex economic systems, develop a deep understanding of global markets and business practices, and adapt flexibly to changing international contexts. A pronounced focus on intercultural competence runs through the curriculum, equipping graduates to operate effectively across cultural boundaries.
Cultural diplomacy in the programme is presented as a practical tool for improving relations and cooperation between different cultures. Combining economic and business knowledge with cultural-diplomatic skills opens new professional avenues in international environments where mutual understanding and cultural awareness are essential. This blend is designed to help you navigate global economic interactions in ways that are both commercially effective and culturally informed.
Note: the original description refers to this as a Berlin-based programme; prospective applicants should verify the exact campus and delivery format with the university to confirm location and any on-site components.
Requirements (as given in the original description)
This interdisciplinary MA runs across four semesters (30 ECTS each) and combines theory, applied case work and a bespoke professional development placement. Early coursework builds academic foundations and intercultural skills while introducing strategic and sustainability perspectives on business and cultural diplomacy. You will analyze the historical development of cultural diplomacy and work through contemporary international case studies to develop evidence-based, practice-oriented approaches.
In the middle semesters you choose electives to tailor the programme to your interests (e.g., nation branding, international organisations, models of cultural diplomacy, religion, or cultural diplomacy in conflict zones) and undertake an individually designed professional development training with the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD). This practicum may include supervised research, the design of a cultural diplomacy initiative, and active participation in ICD projects, activities and conferences—giving you hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Core third-semester modules broaden your economic and managerial expertise, covering international economics, financial markets and institutions, global management perspectives, international marketing and a business simulation to apply strategy in simulated settings.
The final semester is dedicated to an independent master’s thesis: you will receive guidance on choosing and scoping a topic, attend a preparatory workshop, and submit a thesis that is reviewed and approved by a faculty mentor. Completion requires an oral defence of your thesis before a faculty panel. Graduates will be equipped to design and evaluate cultural diplomacy initiatives, interpret international economic and financial contexts, lead cross‑cultural projects, and communicate research findings to academic and practitioner audiences.
This master's program requires applicants to hold an undergraduate degree. A Bachelor's degree is the baseline academic qualification needed for admission.
If your undergraduate degree was completed outside the country where the university is located, check whether your credential meets local entry standards and contact the admissions office if you have questions about equivalency or documentation.
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for roles that require both economic and intercultural expertise. Typical career paths include positions in international organisations, cultural institutions, diplomatic services, NGOs, corporate international departments, and consultancy firms focusing on cross-cultural strategy.
The programme’s applied components — case studies, business simulations and the ICD professional placement — help build practical experience and networks that support entry into policy-making, public diplomacy, international business development, cultural programming, or research-oriented roles.
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