International Sports Diplomacy
About this program
What this degree covers and what you can expect from the university.
Overview
While professional athletes often excel in their respective sports, they may struggle when transitioning into diverse roles across organizations, companies, sports clubs, and federations. Similarly, individuals from various backgrounds, such as economics or law may lack the specialized diplomatic skills needed in roles connected to sports and diplomacy.
This program is designed to train professionals who would like to work in international sport federations or national federations with international activities. With a diverse teaching staff that brings a broad range of nationalities and expertise, the program offers a unique, international experience. This diversity extends to both current students and alumni, enhancing the global scope of the learning environment.
With your expertise, you’ll be able to comfortably settle into various sport organizations in leadership roles and successfully represent these organizations in any kind of international events. With the help of the mentorship offered in the program, you will also be offered guidance in how to move forward with your professional career in sport.
What makes our program unique?
Through a well-rounded curriculum covering key aspects of diplomacy, strategic planning, and diplomatic methods, you will effectively navigate the intersection of the sports industry, civil sector, and global trends.
Completing this program will enable graduates to acquire and develop their diplomatic skills, their understanding of the complexities and correlations in global sport administration and industry, and to communicate successfully in international negotiations, events and other activities. You’ll not only get to know the most important organizational structures and legal frameworks of global sport but will also have a chance to discuss about the different meanings, values, norms that we attach to sport.
Career opportunities
- Sport federations & National Olympic Committees: Lead your organization to new heights, engage in international relations, negotiate for sporting events.
- International sporting events: Support the organization of sporting events to make them more visible, more popular and more accessible for participants and spectators.
- Team Manager/Director: Oversee operations, manage staff, and ensure athletes have the support to succeed on the international stage.
- Sports Program Manager: Create and manage engaging sports programs for schools, communities, and organizations.
- Sports Consultant: Advise sports organizations or athletes on marketing, communication and international strategies and activities.
- Sports Educator/Lecturer: Share your knowledge and train the next generation of sports professionals.
Curriculum
You can see below what subjects are taught each semester of the one-year program.
Semester 1:
History and Theory of Diplomacy and International Relations, The Theory and the Methodology of Sport Diplomacy, Sport in Society, International Sport Law, Global Sport Governance I: Global Sport Relations, Hosting and Organizing International Sport Events, The Practice of Sport Diplomacy: Contexts and Tasks of Sport Diplomacy, Elective I., Elective II., Internship
Semester 2:
Global Sport Governance II: International Sport Organizations, Intro to Grassroots Sports Diplomacy, Communication for International Relations / Social media, Sport Protocol and Event Management, Sports Integrity (Fair Play, Betting, Anti-Doping), Sports for Development and Inclusion, Decision Making and Good Governance in Sport, Project work/thesis, Elective III.
Program overview
Key facts about what you will study and how the program is delivered.
Program length
1 years
How long it typically takes to complete this degree from start to finish.
Language requirement
English
This program is taught in English. You may still need to submit an English proficiency test depending on your nationality and previous education.
Eligibility & requirements
Check whether your academic background matches what the university expects.
Entrance / admission test
Not required
No separate entrance test is listed for this program. The university may still review your academic profile and documents.
Admission intakes & deadlines
Application dates and milestones for each intake period. Deadlines may vary by applicant category.
September 2026 Intake (Autumn Semester 2026)
Classes start September 2026
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Application Portal Opens Online
Online application portal opens for all global candidates.
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Stipendium Hungaricum Application Deadline Online
Application deadline for government scholarship candidates seeking full tuition coverage and monthly stipends
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Final Application Deadline Online
Final deadline to submit completed online applications and supporting documents for the September intake.
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Online Motivation & Knowledge Interview Online
15–20 minute online interview evaluating candidate motivation, career aspirations, and basic understanding of sports diplomacy concepts.
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Program Start Date Online
Official commencement of lectures for both Online and Blended cohorts.
About the university
Learn more about the institution offering this program.