Schiller International University Partners with UNITAR for Master's Programs in Sustainability Management and International Relations & Diplomacy

Schiller International University’s global experience just got more interesting. This June, our university entered a partnership agreement with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), giving a brand new meaning to “global experience”. Schiller students in the Master’s in Sustainability Management and the Master’s in International Relations & Diplomacy will be able to access international internships, professional development, and immersive learning experiences.

The agreement was officially signed on June 15, 2024, in Madrid, the same year Schiller International University celebrates its 60th Anniversary. Alex Mejía, Director of the Division for People and Inclusion at UNITAR, together with Dr. Marta Muñiz, President and CEO of Schiller International University, and Professor Ray Lloyd, Deputy CEO at GEDU, put pen to paper on this great milestone at the university’s Madrid campus, as part of the Global Alumni reunion event. This partnership reflects the commitment of both organizations to foster practical and impactful education in areas critical to diplomacy and global development.

Ankur Mehta, Dr. Rana, Marta Muñiz, Otto Sonnenholzner and Alex Mejia

New Opportunities for our international students

This partnership with the UN opens the door for global employability for students enrolled in these two MS programs, who can now apply for a 3-month internship in New York or Geneva, two of the world’s most influential cities in diplomacy and sustainability. Accessing these internships will provide our students with hands-on experience, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and strengthening our commitment to learn by living. With Schiller International University and UNITAR supporting our students every step of their internship period, they will maximize their chances of securing these opportunities with the help of this special mentorship. But this is just the beginning…

A Graduation Ceremony at the UN Headquarters in Geneva

Students who complete either the Master’s in International Relations & Diplomacy or the Master's in Sustainability Management will be able to step into this historic building and celebrate this amazing achievement, that only marks the beginning of the global significance of their studies. Our students will also be able to participate in an optional four-day fellowship program that will place them where the action is, in multilateral diplomacy and international organizations. 

This fellowship program will include workshops, visits to UN agencies, and networking events. It provides a rare opportunity for students to interact with diplomats, permanent mission personnel, and representatives from civil society. Additionally, students can attend relevant international meetings during their study visit. Upon successful completion, graduates will receive certification under UNITAR's precise standards.

Professional Development Plan Towards Employment 

One of Schiller’s main goals is to prepare our students for global employability, and we are committed to making this happen. With his newly signed agreement, UNITAR will extend its mentorship to up to five students per master’s program, focusing on career development within the United Nations system. This program’s mission is to guide students in navigating their career paths, boosting their professional prospects.  

And how will this happen? By promoting access to internships, and traineeships within UN agencies. Our students will have to work hard using UNITAR’s support to secure these internships by showing proactivity and engagement in their career development. 

But you can rest assured that with these 2 great institutions by your side, your future just got brighter. Ready to change the world through diplomacy or sustainability? Join Schiller International University today.