Introduction
The graduate programme in cultural diplomacy (MCD) equips future professionals with theoretical knowledge and practical tools for cultural diplomatic relations, while preparing them to contribute to EU policies as drivers of innovation and cooperation. Combining established and emerging research approaches, it promotes engagement and mutual understanding among European publics and diplomatic communities, including the cultural and creative industries and academic, civic and political actors at local, regional, national and European levels. MCD explores how cultural diplomacy, EU cultural policy and the creative industries support democratic and economic development, particularly in the post-pandemic era and amid rising populist and nationalist movements. The programme is a key outcome of NARDIV – United in Diversity, a Horizon Europe project funded by the European Union.
Purpose & Content
MCD prepares professionals to engage Europe’s diverse publics more effectively with the arts, culture, science and shared values that promote cooperation and reduce mutual stereotypes. It also assesses soft power as a tool for capacity building and collaboration, drawing on case studies and cultural organisations such as cultural institutes and EUNIC clusters at local and European levels. Over three taught semesters and a fourth devoted to field research for the final capstone project, students examine strategies for stronger cooperation and learn how practitioners can secure additional funding for academic and cultural partnerships through bilateral programmes and multilateral networks. In practice, the programme enables cultural diplomats, managers and other professionals to reassess current management practices and develop innovative, shared strategies. It fosters dialogue with both broad and targeted audiences while expanding cultural participation. The graduate programme awards 120 ECTS over four semesters through a combination of mandatory and elective courses. Language study will be supported by the University of Bucharest’s Faculty of Foreign Languages and cultural institutes based in Bucharest. The programme culminates in a capstone project defended before an international committee.
Specificity
Of course, there are a few similar graduate programmes in Romania and across Europe, but MCD stands out for its unique features. MCD was developed and implemented in close alignment with the NARDIV project. It consists of three interconnected components: the Interdisciplinary Double Degree, the Teaching Modules created by the project’s work packages, and a Training Unit for cultural institutes.
The Teaching Modules e.g. were developed jointly by the University of Bucharest and Aix-Marseille Université and bring NARDIV research findings directly into the curriculum. In this respect, the preexisting CIVIS framework has strengthened the programme’s sustainability by extending NARDIV themes and methods beyond the immediate consortium and embedding them in a broader international university environment.
MCD also includes a Training Unit for Cultural Institutes, creating an important link between university teaching and professional practice in international cultural relations. In cooperation with the Romanian Cultural Institute (ICR), the Goethe-Institut, and the Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften Hamburg (HAW), the programme delivered targeted preparation and coordination activities and professional training workshops. These enabled participants to discuss NARDIV findings in relation to the practical challenges faced by cultural institutes.
Career opportunities
Graduates will gain direct experience in international geopolitics, building professional networks and a strong foundation for further academic study and career development. They will be prepared for roles in European and international settings, including civil society, politics, governmental and non-governmental organisations, international economic organisations, and local and global cultural and creative sectors.
For more information regarding the teaching staff, the syllabus, internship opportunities etc. see https://fsp.unibuc.ro/master-in-cultural-diplomacy-en-mcd/.
In the meantime, enjoy some podcasts featuring teaching staff member Joachim Umlauf, PhD, and graduate students from the inaugural 2025 cohort Sabin Diaconu, Matei Burca, Matei Simion, Iulia Andrei and Dragoș Badea.