University of Siena

What you'll study

This master's is an interdisciplinary programme that combines international relations, cultural policy, communications and heritage studies. The curriculum mixes theoretical foundations with practical skills in public diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, strategic communications and project management.

• Core modules: theories of public diplomacy and soft power; cultural policy and governance; international relations and foreign policy analysis; research methods and evaluation.
• Skills and practice: strategic communication and media relations; campaign design; digital diplomacy and social media; negotiation and public speaking.
• Cultural and heritage studies: cultural institutions management; museum and heritage mediation; cultural events and festival management; community engagement.
• Applied work: policy labs and simulations; project design and fundraising; internships with public institutions, cultural organisations or diplomatic missions; a supervised master's thesis or capstone project.
• Optional modules and electives: regional diplomacy studies, migration and cultural integration, international development and cultural rights, language courses relevant to diplomatic practice.

The programme is delivered through seminars, workshops, case studies and placements, emphasising experiential learning and contacts with cultural organisations, local authorities and international actors.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline such as international relations, political science, cultural studies, communications, history, law or another related field. Selection typically takes into account academic transcripts, a CV, a personal statement explaining motivation and interests in public and cultural diplomacy, and at least one academic or professional reference.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be asked to demonstrate proficiency in English. Universities commonly accept recognised test scores or equivalent qualifications; some applicants may be considered on the basis of prior study or professional experience in English. International applicants may also need to meet national recognition requirements for entry to a master’s programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme go on to careers that bridge diplomacy, culture and public engagement. Typical career paths include:

• Roles in foreign ministries and diplomatic services (public diplomacy or cultural sections)
• Positions within international organisations and multilateral institutions working on cultural policy or public affairs
• Management and curatorial roles in museums, cultural institutions and heritage organisations
• Public affairs, communications, and stakeholder engagement roles in NGOs, foundations and cultural NGOs
• Consultancy and project management for cultural programmes, events and international cultural exchange
• Research and policy analysis in think tanks, universities and cultural policy units

Practical components such as internships and project work are designed to help students build networks and gain experience relevant to these careers.

Why study at University of Siena

The University of Siena combines a long academic tradition with active research in political and cultural studies. Located in a UNESCO World Heritage city, the university provides a distinctive living laboratory for cultural diplomacy and heritage management, with immediate access to museums, archives and festivals.

Students benefit from an interdisciplinary faculty and opportunities to collaborate with local cultural institutions, regional government bodies and international partners. The programme emphasises applied learning, offering internships and project opportunities that connect classroom study with professional practice in Italy and abroad. Siena's compact campus and international student community also support close faculty supervision and peer collaboration.