International political studies are designed to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the world environment in which they are citizens. From villages to the United Nations, from negotiations between states to the role of non-governmental organizations, from the geopolitics of power to the management of international crises, from humanitarian intervention to peaceful resolution of conflict, nothing which drives politics in international relations should be unfamiliar to students who have completed this programme.
In addition to the core subjects of political science, the training provides students with the essential elements with which to analyze international life and to build on their existing knowledge in the politico-institutional, historical, economic and perhaps even socio-anthropological fields. The interpretation of diplomatic and strategic questions is also enhanced by study of approaches and methods in international negotiations, international relations theory and Foreign policy analysis (FPA).
At the end of the first year, students may choose to diversify their knowledge, either through research in international relations, or to preparing for an international career (e.g.diplomacy, government service, non-governmental organizations) by developing special expertise in an area of international policy or conflict resolution. During the second year, the emphasis is on political analysis, with numerous case studies from different parts of the world.
Training is also offered in the field of humanitarian action. This is done in a multi-disciplinary way, from a post-crisis reconstruction perspective. This training provides analysis and global understanding of conflict and situations where humanitarian intervention is needed.