How Studying International Relations in Paris Helps You Think Like a Diplomat

As of 2026, Paris will host over 162 embassies and diplomatic missions, making it one of the most important global centers for diplomacy.  It provides students with direct exposure to one of the most active diplomatic environments in the world. 

The French capital is home to major international organizations like the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and serves as a center for global governance and policy discussions. When you pursue an international relations (IR) degree in Paris, you develop the diplomatic mindset that separates exceptional diplomats from the rest. 

Learn how diplomacy studies in France can shape your thinking and prepare you for real-world diplomatic situations. 

1. Develop Global Perspective alongside Diplomats 

While studying in Paris, you can experience geopolitical awareness first-hand, unlike studying IR in your home country. Here, you attend lectures where professors discuss ongoing global crises, and you learn to make decisions in real-world scenarios. You also walk past government buildings where world politics decisions are made. 

When you study diplomacy in France, you witness how nations interact. Key benefits include: 

• Direct observation of how European diplomatic hubs operate in daily policymaking. 
• Understanding how soft power and diplomacy influence IR. 
• Access to real-world case studies during your IRA course in Paris. 
• Learning how international political systems function in practice. 

Over six to seven million students study abroad annually, with Europe witnessing a significant 58.33% increase in international student enrollments. Paris ranks among the top five destinations for IR students seeking global governance education. 

2. Build Strong Cross-Cultural Communication 

Effective diplomacy depends on communication across cultures. Paris offers a truly multicultural learning environment, welcoming over 300,000 international students every year. You study with classmates from dozens of countries and live in a diverse city where every day teaches you about different perspectives and values. 

Your IR course in Paris develops cross-cultural communication through: 

• Daily interactions in a multicultural learning environment with peers from around the globe. 
• Developing sensitivity to cultural nuances is essential in diplomatic conversations. 
• Building relationships with international peers who become lifelong professional networks. 

Research from the Harvard Business Review shows that professionals with international experience demonstrate significantly higher emotional intelligence and cross-cultural competence.  When you work on projects that require bridging cultures and nations, these skills are invaluable. 

3. Master Digital Diplomacy in Live Environment 

Modern diplomacy happens in boardrooms and online. When you study IR in Paris, you learn how digital tools shape diplomatic communications. You understand how nations use social media, cyber policies, and digital platforms to advance their interests. 

Digital diplomacy skills developed include: 

• Proficiency in analyzing how diplomacy operates in digital spaces. 
• Understanding cyber diplomacy and how nations manage digital relations. 
• Ability to navigate geopolitical awareness in an increasingly connected world. 
• Skills to communicate across platforms while maintaining diplomatic principles and etiquette. 

Nearly 98% of UN member states are actively using social media as a tool for diplomacy and to support their foreign policy objectives. The IRA program in Paris helps students develop relevant diplomatic skills in the digital age. 

4. Proximity to Major Intergovernmental Organizations 

Paris hosts dozens of international organizations that shape global policy. You study near where real decisions happen. This proximity offers unprecedented learning opportunities. When you study diplomacy in France, you gain unparalleled access to IR machinery. 

Key organizations in Paris include: 

• UNESCO: Shapes global education, culture, and heritage policy. 
• OECD: Analyzing international economic policy and development. 
• INTERPOL: Coordinating international police and security cooperation. 
• Multiple embassies and diplomatic missions. 
• Regional offices of major UN agencies. 

Paris hosts the headquarters or regional offices of over 50 international organizations. This creates unmatched opportunities for internships, mentorships, and real-world diplomatic exposure during your studies in Paris. 

5. Diverse Career Opportunities 

An IR undergraduate or master's degree in Paris opens doors worldwide. The diplomatic mindset you develop through studying IR abroad leads to multiple career paths. Employers value your Paris experience and global perspective. 

Career opportunities for IR graduates include: 

• Diplomat or foreign service officer at embassies worldwide. 
• Policy analyst at international organizations in Paris and other global centers. 
• IR for global careers in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and humanitarian organizations. 
• Government consultant specializing in foreign affairs education and strategy. 
• Corporate relations specialist handling international business and diplomacy. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, diplomatic and IR positions are expected to grow by six to eight percent over the next decade.  IR graduates with real-world experience are significantly more competitive than their peers. 

6. Improve Your Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills 

Diplomacy demands sharp analytical skills. An IR program in Paris forces you to question assumptions. You study conflicting perspectives on the same issues. You learn why nations make decisions that seem contradictory. This builds critical thinking essential for diplomatic work. 

Diplomacy and international relations students develop the following skills: 

• The ability to analyze complex global governance and policy problems from multiple angles. 
• Skills to evaluate evidence and challenge established viewpoints respectfully. 
• Understanding of how international organizations in Paris operate and make decisions. 
• Competence in identifying patterns in foreign affairs education across different regions. 

A study by the World Economic Forum found that critical thinking ranks as the third most important skill employers seek, after complex problem-solving and creativity. Studying IR in Paris naturally develops these capabilities through exposure to real diplomatic scenarios. 

7. Diverse Networking Opportunities 

According to a report, 85% of jobs are filled through networking. For IR professionals, having a strong network built during your studies proves essential for diplomatic career advancement. 

Networking benefits include: 

• Access to prestigious international organizations in Paris like UNESCO and OECD. 
• Connections with diplomats and foreign affairs professionals through seminars and events. 
• Opportunities to join study groups and academic clubs focused on global governance and policy. 
• Relationships with professors who maintain connections throughout the IR field. 

Paris hosts countless conferences, seminars, and networking events. You will be able to meet professionals, policymakers, and future colleagues who influence international affairs. 

Develop a Diplomatic Mindset at Schiller 

Studying IR in Paris changes the way you understand global affairs. Here, you experience diplomacy in casual conversations, even outside the classroom. Paris offers a multicultural learning environment and close proximity to major international organizations, helping you develop critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and leadership abilities.  

At Schiller International University, this immersive setting helps you build a diplomatic mindset. With our partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) you gain access to real-world diplomatic exposure, mentorship from global experts, and the opportunity to earn a recognized UNITAR Fellowship Certificate. 

High-performing students may access exclusive internship placements with international organizations and companies. Personalized mentorship from Schiller and UNITAR faculty also helps refine your professional direction and career goals. These experiences strengthen your understanding of global governance, international policy, and diplomatic strategy. 

Studying IR in Paris enables you to build bridges between nations and an effective leader. Explore how Schiller’s IR program in Paris can prepare you for a future in global diplomacy. 

FAQs 

Q1. Why is Paris considered a global hub for studying IR? 

Answer: Paris is home to major international organizations like UNESCO and the OECD, making it a key center for diplomacy and global cooperation. Its political influence, historic role in international affairs, and multicultural environment give students direct exposure to global policy discussions. 

Q2. How does studying IR in Paris prepare students for diplomatic careers? 

Answer: Students learn global politics, international law, and diplomacy while studying in a city surrounded by diplomats. The MSc program at Schiller includes internships, networking events, and guest lectures from diplomats and policy experts. This helps develop practical skills and a strong foundation for diplomatic careers. 

Q3. What practical exposure do students gain while studying IR in Paris? 

Answer: Students attend international conferences, seminars, and policy discussions hosted by global institutions. Internship opportunities with NGOs, embassies, and international organizations allow hands-on experience. 

Q4. Is studying IR in Paris beneficial for international students? 

Answer: Yes, Paris offers a diverse and inclusive environment where international students can learn alongside peers from different countries. The multicultural exposure improves cross-cultural communication skills, which are essential for successful IR. 

Q5. What career opportunities can IR graduates pursue after studying in Paris? 

Answer: Graduates can work in diplomacy, international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, and multinational companies. Roles such as diplomats, policy analysts, international consultants, and public affairs specialists are common career paths.