The short track MA Degree in International Economics, Business & Cultural Diplomacy is a 3 semesters´ program offered by Furtwangen University (HFU) in partnership with the ICD Academy for Cultural Diplomacy.
The degree provides a comprehensive base of studies in several academic disciplines related to International Economics, Business, combining it with Global Affairs & Politics, with a particular emphasis on cultural diplomacy and its historical and contemporary application in the public sector, and the private sector and civil society. The degree prepares students for careers in diverse fields, such as the field of international relations, the humanities, business, the financial sector, politics and culture, with a special focus on Cultural Diplomacy institutions and the application of Cultural Diplomacy in the framework of foreign policy and international economics.
The program addresses contemporary international issues, with classroom seminars and lectures, as well as educational & cultural events, conferences, professional training, tours, visits and meetings with foreign officials, which are further incorporated into the curriculum. Students will meet with leading experts working in international organizations, embassies, and academic institutions, and will engage with specialists in the areas of International Relations & Economics, Business, Communication, Politics, Human Rights, Culture, Peace Building, Multilateral Diplomacy, Conflict Resolution, and Development.
The program provides students with practical experience for both academic and professional development, preparing students for careers in diverse fields, such as international relations, the humanities, business, the financial sector, politics and culture, with a special focus on Cultural Diplomacy institutions and the application of Cultural Diplomacy in the framework of foreign policy and international economics. On a practical level, the international environment of the Center for Cultural Diplomacy Studies offers students a unique opportunity to interact with leading experts and academics at a wide variety of international organizations and research centers.
This exceptional learning environment leads to original research and independent study opportunities. It allows students to create a solid professional network and form a concrete base for future academic and professional career choices, preparing students for engagement in the international arena, civil society, politics, governmental organizations and international economic organizations, as well as the private sector.
Accreditation
The Master’s Degree is awarded by the Furtwangen University (HFU), which is recognized as a fully accredited institution of higher education with the right to award university degrees.
The HFU is a state university of Baden-Württemberg / Germany. It is accredited by AQUIN with all its study programs and quality-ensuring processes via institutional accreditation (Systemakkreditierung).
The Master’s Degree program is accredited within the framework of this institutional accreditation according to federal law according to § 33 Landeshochschulgesetz Baden-Württemberg (LHG).
The Furtwangen University (HFU) is part of the Bologna Process set in place by the European Commission and uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) to award degrees. Credits obtained through the MA program are equivalent to those of courses at universities in all other 30+ signatory countries. Students will earn 30 credits per semester during the MA program, for a total of 90 ECTS credits upon completion.
This MA of 90 ECTS is sufficient for a Master’s program in terms of post-studies (PhD) or work placement in Germany.