The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Diplomacy and Foreign Policy is a four-year degree programme offered by the Jindal School of International Affairs (JSIA) at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU). This programme is designed to equip undergraduates with a detailed, practical understanding of how foreign policy is conceived, formulated and implemented, as well as how the individual or allied foreign policies of countries strive to work in harmony based on shared interests.

The B.A. (Hons.) Diplomacy and Foreign Policy programme aims to provide students with an overview of the various instruments a state may use to pursue its foreign policy in a complex and challenging world order. It takes into consideration the constraints and limits that states face in the international domain, such as the rise and fall of globalization, social and economic rights, and communication technologies which are central to media-based public diplomacy.

What is Diplomacy?

• Diplomacy is the art and practice of conducting negotiations and communication between states and other actors in the international system. Diplomacy aims to influence the decisions and behavior of others in a peaceful and cooperative manner, and to advance the interests and values of one's own country or organization.

The scope of BA in Diplomacy course is to prepare students for careers in the field of international relations, foreign policy, and diplomacy. The course covers various topics, such as the history, theory, and practice of diplomacy, the role of international organizations, the challenges and opportunities of global governance, and the skills and techniques of negotiation and communication.

Students who pursue BA in Diplomacy can work in various sectors and domains, such as government, business, media, education, and non-governmental organizations. They can also opt for higher studies or specialization in international relations or related disciplines, such as law, public policy, economics, or sociology.

BA in Diplomacy is a dynamic and diverse course that can offer students a rewarding and meaningful career in the field of international affairs.

What Makes It Different at JGU?

• The B.A. (Hons.) Diplomacy and Foreign Policy programme from JSIA offers numerous advantages to students interested in international relations and world politics. One of its key benefits is its comprehensive approach to teaching foreign policy and diplomacy, which provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about contemporary global challenges and the role of diplomacy in stabilizing or changing international orders. This programme is therefore ideal for students who aspire to join the foreign services of their country or work in regional and international organizations and private corporations with operations in multiple countries.

• The programme is designed to prepare students for careers as foreign affairs journalists and editors, lawyers, civil society activists, government relations executives in multinational corporations, and many other pathways. By thoroughly studying various aspects of diplomacy, including motives, objectives, methods, and treaty-making, students will gain a full understanding of complex power relations, geopolitics, geo-economics, bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, negotiations, armed conflicts, and diplomatic crisis management.

• In addition, this programme offers students the opportunity to develop their linguistic and cultural competencies by studying foreign languages, engaging in cross-cultural exchanges and field trips, and participating in international internships and research projects. Such experiences can help students to broaden their perspectives, deepen their understanding of different cultures, and develop the cross-cultural communication skills necessary to succeed in today's globalized job market.

   

The B.A. (Hons.) Diplomacy and Foreign Policy is an undergraduate degree program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the complex world of diplomacy and foreign policy. This degree is intended to train high school students with an in‑depth, thorough, and practical understanding of how foreign policy is conceived, formulated, and implemented, and how the individual or allied foreign policies of countries strive to work in harmony based on shared interests and also deal with countries and non‑state actors that pose challenges or threats to them. Diplomacy is called the engine of international politics and this degree programme is a comprehensive learning of all the tracks of diplomacy from traditional to modern, from public to cultural diplomacy, and the links between diplomacy, defense, and national interests.

The programme aims to equip students with an overview of various instruments of a state to pursue its foreign policy in a complex and challenging world order at the intersection of a detailed consideration of the constraints and limits it faces in the international domain, emanating from the rise/fall of globalization, social and economic rights, and communication technologies which are central to media‑based public diplomacy. It is the first and unique Bachelor’s degree programme in India that combines the study of related fields of foreign policy in terms of the preservation of a state’s sovereignty and national interests, decision‑making models of national leaders, hard and soft power in the fast‑changing world order, and the essentials of statecraft– all combined into a single seamless Bachelor’s degree. The B.A. (Hons.) Diplomacy and Foreign Policy program features a comprehensive curriculum spanning eight semesters with a research-focused pathway in the final year. Undergraduate programs in JSIA are structured around courses that students take to complete the requirements of their major degree with an interdisciplinary Minor Concentration.

Duration- 4 Years

B.A. (Hons.) Diplomacy & Foreign Policy
Programme Structure

* Students may opt for a Dual Degree starting from Semester 5 or choose a Semester Exchange in Semesters 5, 6, or 7.

Research Pathway in the Final Year

B.A. (Hons.) with Research in Diplomacy & Foreign Policy

Students with 7.00 CGPA have the option of taking the research pathway in the fourth year and get awarded a B.A. (Hons.) with Research in Diplomacy & Foreign Policy.

Credit Summary for BA [Hons.] with Research in Diplomacy & Foreign Policy [4 Years]

Credit Summary for BA [Hons.] Diplomacy & Foreign Policy [4 Years]

JSIA’S Outstanding Undergraduate Dissertation Award

The Outstanding Undergraduate Dissertation Award will be granted to a young scholar who will demonstrate exceptional academic prowess by producing a dissertation that makes a highly original and impactful contribution to the field of Diplomacy & Foreign Policy.  To be considered for this award, the dissertation must not only present a novel and relevant topic within International Relations but also reflect significant innovation in addressing contemporary global issues, emerging trends, or theoretical developments.

Elective Courses Policy

• BADFP students are offered elective courses from their second semester of study (as an optional course).
• Elective courses are categorized into:
  • General Electives: They are cross elective courses offered by other JGU Schools. These courses are interdisciplinary in nature.
  • Specialized Electives: Offered by JSIA (as school elective or cross elective). They are grouped into five main clusters:
• Peace and Conflict Studies
• Economics and Foreign Policy
• Defense and National Security Studies
• Human Rights and International Development
• Global South Studies

Guidelines and Rules for Electives

• Students can take a maximum of 51 credits outside JSIA in case they choose to opt for other school’s cross elective which is 25% of the minimum credit requirement for graduation (206 credits).
• External JSIA Credits exceeding 25% will imply the approval of the Dean of the School and Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs for Undergraduate programmes.
• The removal of an elective with an (F) grade is possible only after the final semester if the student is fulfilling the mandatory credit requirement of 206 credits.

JSIA Specialization Policy

JSIA is offering elective courses that are categorized into five clusters:
1. Peace and Conflict Studies
2. Economics and Foreign Policy
3. Defense and National Security Studies
4. Human Rights and International Development
5. Global South Studies
The student has to pass three electives from the same cluster and undertake a 3 month-internship with one of JSIA research centres associated with a particular cluster to be awarded the specialization certificate before graduation. The three cluster elective courses can be taken in one semester or may be spread over two or more semesters.

Major with Minor

Apart from their major degree, undergraduate students at JSIA can choose from thirteen diverse minor combinations, offering them opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary academic programs that complement their primary field of study. To pursue a minor, students need to complete 24 credits. These minors span cognate areas within the humanities, social sciences, international affairs, and public policy, enabling students to tailor their academic experience to match their career aspirations and intellectual interests. This structure empowers students to cultivate a versatile academic profile, making them well-rounded candidates for graduate studies and careers in various sectors, including public service, international relations, research, and private industry.

1. To be eligible for the B.A. (Hons.) Diplomacy and Foreign Policy programme at JSIA, candidates must have successfully completed their Class XII examination or equivalent, such as CBSE, State Boards, IB, Cambridge and other Government-recognized school leaving exams.
    
2. The admissions process for this programme is designed to evaluate each application in its unique context. It consists of three rounds, which include submitting a personal statement, answering a supplemental question, providing Class 10 and 12 marks, participating in a faculty interview, and meeting the JSAT/SAT/ACT

Tuition Fees*:3,75,000 (INR per annum)

*The Tuition fee, accommodation charges and other allied service charges are subject to an annual increase of ten percent (10%).

**The security deposit will be fully refunded, subject to the completion of studies and/or receipt of a ‘No Dues Certificate’. The security deposit shall not carry any interest.

1. The B.A. (Hons.) Diplomacy and Foreign Policy programme from JSIA offers a diverse range of career opportunities for its graduates. Students who complete the mandatory guided internships can explore career streams in Peace and Conflict Resolution, International Justice, International Economic Development, Humanitarian Relief, Human Rights Advocacy, Political and Economic Risk Analysis, and many more. A Career Director also assists students in finding suitable internships in various intergovernmental, regional and non-governmental organisations, financial institutions, think tanks, and diplomatic missions.
    
2. JSIA Alumni have gone on to work in various sectors such as news media, consulting/corporate, think tanks/research, embassy/government, INGO & NGO/social venture, and United Nations/international organisations. Some of the major employers of JSIA students/alumni include Amnesty International, Brookings, BBC Monitoring, Carnegie India, Embassy of People’s Republic of China, Greenpeace India, Human Rights Watch, Indian Council of World Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, NITI Aayog, United Nations Development Programme, and many more. Graduates of JSIA have become versatile international affairs professionals, making a significant impact in the global arena.

JSIA Electives/Cross-Electives per Specialization Clusters

1. O.P. Jindal Global University awards Merit cum Means Scholarships (MCM) every year.
    
2. The MCM Scholarship covers the tuition fee only.
    
3. Scholarship applications will be opened by the University by April and will be awarded to eligible students in July.
    
4. The eligibility criteria includes annual family income, Graduation score, entrance examination results and faculty interview score. Weightage will also be given to curricular and non-curricular achievements.
    
5. JGU has established tie-ups with AVANSE (ICICI), Dena Bank, Axis Bank and Credila(HDFC) to facilitate educational loans.

Short Term Study Abroad Progammes:

Students can opt for summer schoola at the University of Oxford, the UK, the Fletcher School at the University of Tufts, the USA, and UN-Geneva Winter School. This opportunity is available to both M.A. and B.A. students.

Semester Exchange:

The student spends a semester at a partner university while paying tuition only at JSIA. JSIA has semester exchange collaborations with some of the top schools in international affairs. These include University of Warsaw, Sciences Po, Comillas Pontifical University, and Sabanci University, among others. This opportunity is available to both M.A. and B.A. students.

Pathway Program: 

JSIA and King;s College Pathway Programme is a demanding, selective option that allows qualified students of BAPS and BAGA Programs an opportunity to earn a M.Sc. Degree in Global Affairs from King’s College London upon completion of their Undergraduate Degree.

Dual Degree:

Graduate student completes one year of the M.A.(DLB) program at JSIA and the second year at a partner University. Undergraduate students opting for a dual degree spend their first two years at JSIA and transfer to our partner university for the last two years. At the end of their time, they earn a degree from both institutions.

JSIA undergraduate students can opt for a Minor Programme from their second year of study from various schools. The list of minor programmes offered to them is as follows:

1. Minor in Economics

The Minor in Economics offered by Jindal School of Government & Public Policy (JSGP) offers students the opportunity to learn the theoretical and empirical foundation necessary to appreciate and analyze issues in economics.

Note: JSIA Students who have done Introduction to Microeconomics and Introduction to Macroeconomics in their respective programmes can do two courses from the following courses: 

1. Intermediate Microeconomics
2. Intermediate Macroeconomics
3. Introduction to Game Theory 
4. Econometrics 1

2. Minor in Public Policy

The Minor in Public Policy offered by Jindal School of Government & Public Policy (JSGP) follows an interdisciplinary approach to develop capacities to analyze contemporary political, economic, and social issues to evaluate and design public policy.

3. Minor in Architecture Studies

The minor in Architecture Studies is offered by the Jindal School of Arts and Architecture (JSAA). Students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 credits for the award of the minor.

4. Minor in Interior Studies

The minor in Interior Studies is offered by the Jindal School of Arts and Architecture (JSAA). Students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 credits for the award of the minor.

5. Minor in Urban Studies

The minor in Urban Studies is offered by the Jindal School of Arts and Architecture (JSAA). Students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 credits for the award of the minor.

6. Minor in Psychology

The minor in Psychology is offered by the Jindal School of Psychology and Counselling (JSPC). Students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 credits for the award of the minor

7. Minor in Environment and Sustainability

The minor in Environment and Sustainability is offered by the Jindal School of Environment and Sustainability (JSES). Students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 credits for the award of the minor. Selected courses of JSES will be opened up for students enrolled in ‘Minor’ before the commencement of each semester, and students have to select any course/courses from that course bracket.
Some Sample Courses:

1. Water: Science and Policy
2. Environmental Pollution and Community Health
3. Sustainable Consumption and Production
4. Waste Management: Sustainable Practices
5. Natural Hazards and Disaster Resilience

8. Minor in Public Health and Development

The minor in Public Health and Development is offered by the Jindal School of Public Health and Human Development (JSPH). Students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 credits for the award of the minor.
Requirements for the Minor in Public Health and Human Development

*Limited intake and requirement of field-visits

9. Minor in Banking & Finance

The minor in Banking & Finance is offered by the Jindal School of Banking & Finance (JSBF). Students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 credits for the award of the minor.

10. Minor in Media and Communication

The student must complete 24 credits by studying any 6 of the following core courses that will be offered in the Fall and Spring semesters of an academic year:

11. Minor in Sociology

Minor in Sociology is offered by Jindal School of Liberals Arts and Humanities (JSLH). Any two courses from the following: 1. Key Texts in Sociology, Culture and Anthropology 2. Thinking about the Field 3. Emerging Questions in Sociology and Anthropology. In addition, a student may take any 4 courses from JSLH listed under Sociology cluster.

12. Minor in Visual Arts

Minor in Visual Arts is offered by Jindal School of Liberals Arts and Humanities (JSLH). Students must complete one course from each of the required clusters: 1. Study: 2D Study 1 OR 2D Study 2 2. Skill: Photography and Digital Art OR Advance Sculpture 3. Concept: South Asian Art History and Theory 1 OR Western Art History and Theory 1 OR Expressive Arts: Visual Art 4. Creativity: Installation Art OR Still Image In addition, students must take any two courses listed under the BFA programme (except 4th year courses).

13. Minor in English 

Minor in English is offered by Jindal School of Languages & Literature (JSLL). Only JSLL courses apply towards this Minor and students must complete a total of 24 credits, including: 1. 12 credits from core BA Hons. English courses offered by JSLL (2 core courses x 6 credits each). 2. 12 credits from elective courses within JSLL, which are typically 4-credit courses.