UOC - UNITAR Online Expert Diploma in Regional Studies (October 2024)
In an increasingly interconnected, globalized and complex world, where the importance of multilateral dialogue and cooperation is ever growing, the demand for training and capacity development in the field of international affairs and diplomacy is constantly rising. In this regard, the establishment of this Online Expert Diploma in Regional Studies between the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Open University of Catalonia (UOC) holds great significance.
This Expert Diploma is designed to be perfectly suited to the needs of students and professionals interested in both developing their understanding of international affairs and multilateral diplomacy. This Expert Diploma will allow diplomats, government officials, students and other stakeholders to upgrade their studies and knowledge combining the best of university education and UN executive training.
The Online Expert Diploma in Regional Studies will enable you to strengthen your performance in multilateral settings, to foster your understanding of regional politics and to leverage your career perspectives by connecting with high-level representatives, diplomats, academics, and other experts.
At the end of the Programme, students should be able to:
- Develop a critical understanding of key questions and concepts related to international relations;
- Demonstrate a comprehensive, substantive and practical knowledge of regional studies;
- Develop analytical skills and the ability to think critically;
- Participate effectively, efficiently and confidently in bilateral and multilateral work environments.
To receive the Expert Diploma in Regional Studies, issued by the UOC in partnership with UNITAR, students must complete the following courses equivalent to 15 ECTS in one semester.
UNITAR COURSES
- Field Visit to Geneva, Switzerland (optional)
- Field Visit to The Hague, the Netherlands (optional)
UOC COURSES
- EU and Eastern Europe in World Politics
- Latin America in World Politics
- Asia-Pacific in World Politics
- Africa and Middle East in World Politics
Students will also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the very heart of diplomacy or into the city of peace and justice. Optional field trips to Geneva, Switzerland (5 days) and The Hague, the Netherlands (5 days) will be organized for those who wish to gain expertise as well as skills in the domain of multilateral diplomacy.
The Online Expert Diploma in Regional Studies is a UOC Certified Expert Diploma, awarded according to the rules and regulations set by the Spanish education system. Giving its specificity, it does not give general access to Doctoral studies (Ph.D. and similar). Validation of credits for access to such programmes can be requested from competent institutions. For more information, students should contact mdp-elearning [at] unitar.org (mdp-elearning[at]unitar[dot]org)
UNITAR and UOC have developed an extensive expertise in the delivery of online programmes. Using Internet as a medium, students, diplomats, practitioners and scholars are brought together in a unique virtual learning environment designed to valorize experiential and collaborative learning.
Distinctive features of the Expert Diploma include:
- Full online delivery, allowing for a flexible schedule designed to fit the specific needs of working professionals;
- Student-centered approach, in which the learner and the learning experience at the core of the programme;
- Leading-edge insights into prevailing theories and practices;
- Lifelong learning approach, in which the workplace is used as the main learning environment;
- Multi-cultural pedagogy, particularly attentive at the diversity of paradigms, perceptions and intellectual traditions;
- Multi-disciplinary approach.
The Programme is aimed at diplomats as well as staff of governmental and non-governmental organizations. Additionally, the Expert Diploma is open to graduate students, young researchers and other academics interested in gaining a thorough understanding of diplomacy and international relations and acquiring soft skills to thrive in their careers.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS AND REGISTRATION PROCESS
In order to be considered for this Expert Diploma, candidates must be fluent in English, possess a valid passport or national identity cards and have completed an undergraduate degree(*).
During the registration process please upload the following documents:
- a copy of your CV
- a copy of your bachelor degree certificate
- motivation letter
After reception of these documents, your application will be carefully considered. In case your application is successful, UNITAR will send you an acceptance email. Once your confirmation is received, UOC will send you another link by which you can complete your official registration with UOC and proceed with the payment.UOC will also ask you to provide the following document:
-Copy of passport
Upon registration, UNITAR will transfer students' data to UOC. UOC has a joint controllership with regard to students' personal data provided during the registration process.
(*) Students who successfully complete the Programme and are unable to offer proof that they hold an official university degree will be issued a university extension diploma with the programme’s name.
ADMISSION PROCESS
Admission is granted on a rolling basis. However, early application is recommended given the limited number of places on the programme.
Admission is valid for two intakes, the intake the candidate applies for and the following.
DURATION
Students must complete their studies in one semester (6 months).
WITHDRAWAL
Students may request to withdraw from the Expert Diploma without any penalty or need for justification within the timeframe of fourteen (14) days counting from the date they are officially informed by e-mail of the enrolment in the programme.
Students shall request to withdraw from the Expert Diploma through UOC's established channels (https://www.uoc.edu/estudiant/portal/guia/en/index.html) and send back the learning resources (if applicable) to the established address. The costs of sending the learning materials shall be paid by the student.
After this period of time, withdrawing from the Expert Diploma does not exempt the student to keep up with the payment plan agreed with UOC.
TUITION FEES
The tuition fees are 1,975 EUR.
Accepted students will be contacted by UOC so they can proceed with the payment.