ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations
The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations is a three-year, 360-credit programme designed for learners who want to develop strong expertise in political systems, governance, and global affairs. It provides a balanced mix of academic knowledge and practical skills to prepare learners for impactful careers in politics and international relations.
This programme introduces learners to core areas such as political theory, comparative politics, global governance, diplomacy, and international law. It also covers applied fields like conflict resolution, policy-making, foreign affairs, and global security, ensuring a complete understanding of both national and international political contexts.
Learners will gain the ability to critically analyse policies, understand diverse political environments, and contribute solutions to complex global challenges. With a strong emphasis on research, communication, and leadership, the diploma prepares individuals to engage confidently with government bodies, international organisations, and policy think tanks.
The course is highly relevant for those aiming to enter careers in diplomacy, public service, non-governmental organisations, or international institutions. It is equally valuable for professionals seeking to formalise their knowledge and advance their existing roles in political or community leadership.
By completing this programme, learners will not only gain academic and professional competence but also build the confidence to contribute meaningfully to discussions and decisions shaping the world today.
Course overview
Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations, learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations, consists of 36 mandatory units.
Year 1 – Foundation in Political Science & International Relations
- Introduction to Political Science
- Foundations of International Relations
- Comparative Politics and Government Systems
- Political Ideologies and Theories
- History of Political Thought
- Principles of Public Administration
- Introduction to International Organisations
- Global History and World Politics
- Political Communication and Media Studies
- Research Methods in Political Science
- Human Rights and Social Justice
- Introduction to Diplomacy and Foreign Policy
Year 2 – Intermediate Political Science & International Relations
- Advanced Political Theory and Analysis
- International Law and Global Governance
- Political Economy and Development Studies
- Regional Studies: Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East
- Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies
- Political Sociology and Social Movements
- Policy-Making and Public Policy Analysis
- International Political Economy
- Comparative Foreign Policy
- Security Studies and Global Challenges
- Research Methods and Data Analysis in Politics
- Ethics and Professional Practice in Political Science
Year 3 – Advanced Political Science & International Relations
- Contemporary Issues in International Relations
- Strategic Studies and National Security
- International Diplomacy and Negotiation
- Policy Analysis and Political Reform
- Globalisation and Transnational Politics
- Leadership and Governance in Political Institutions
- International Conflict and Crisis Management
- Political Risk Analysis and Strategic Decision-Making
- Environmental Politics and Global Sustainability
- International Cooperation and Development Projects
- Innovation and Emerging Trends in Global Politics
- Capstone Project in Political Science & International Relations
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations:
Year 1 – Foundation in Political Science & International Relations
Introduction to Political Science
- Understand the scope, nature, and functions of political science.
- Explain the role of politics in governance and society.
- Identify major branches and approaches in political science.
- Apply basic political concepts to real-world contexts.
Foundations of International Relations
- Recognise the origins and key theories of international relations.
- Explain how states interact within the global system.
- Analyse the role of power and cooperation in international politics.
- Apply theories to assess global political events.
Comparative Politics and Government Systems
- Compare political systems and structures across nations.
- Evaluate the role of constitutions, legislatures, and executives.
- Examine different forms of democracy and authoritarianism.
- Interpret global case studies of governance models.
Political Ideologies and Theories
- Define core political ideologies and their historical roots.
- Distinguish between liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and others.
- Analyse the impact of ideologies on policy and society.
- Critically evaluate ideological influence in global politics.
History of Political Thought
- Identify classical thinkers and their contributions to political ideas.
- Explain the evolution of Western and non-Western political thought.
- Assess how historical ideas influence modern governance.
- Apply political philosophy to current debates.
Principles of Public Administration
- Understand the scope and purpose of public administration.
- Identify key functions of government institutions.
- Examine accountability, transparency, and efficiency in administration.
- Apply principles of management to public service delivery.
Introduction to International Organisations
- Describe the history and structure of international organisations.
- Explain the functions of the UN, WTO, IMF, and regional bodies.
- Analyse the impact of multilateral cooperation.
- Evaluate the role of international organisations in conflict and peace.
Global History and World Politics
- Trace the historical foundations of modern world politics.
- Explain the impact of colonialism, wars, and revolutions.
- Assess the role of historical events in shaping global order.
- Apply historical analysis to contemporary issues.
Political Communication and Media Studies
- Understand the role of media in shaping political opinion.
- Analyse political campaigns, propaganda, and digital media.
- Evaluate ethical challenges in political communication.
- Apply communication strategies in a political context.
Research Methods in Political Science
- Identify qualitative and quantitative research approaches.
- Develop skills in data collection and analysis.
- Formulate research questions and hypotheses.
- Apply research methods to political studies.
Human Rights and Social Justice
- Understand the principles of universal human rights.
- Analyse global human rights instruments and policies.
- Evaluate social justice challenges across societies.
- Apply human rights frameworks to case studies.
Introduction to Diplomacy and Foreign Policy
- Understand the role and principles of diplomacy.
- Explain the processes of foreign policy formulation.
- Analyse diplomatic tools, strategies, and negotiations.
- Apply concepts to real-world diplomatic case studies.
Year 2 – Intermediate Political Science & International Relations
Advanced Political Theory and Analysis
- Evaluate modern and post-modern approaches to politics.
- Analyse theories of justice, equality, and liberty.
- Compare classical and contemporary political thought.
- Apply advanced theories to political decision-making.
International Law and Global Governance
- Explain the nature and sources of international law.
- Analyse the role of treaties, conventions, and courts.
- Evaluate global governance structures in law enforcement.
- Apply legal principles to global disputes.
Political Economy and Development Studies
- Understand the relationship between politics and economics.
- Analyse development theories and strategies.
- Assess the role of institutions in economic growth.
- Apply political economy concepts to case studies.
Regional Studies: Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East
- Understand the political systems of key world regions.
- Analyse historical and cultural factors shaping governance.
- Evaluate regional organisations and alliances.
- Apply comparative analysis to regional issues.
Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies
- Understand the causes and dynamics of conflict.
- Analyse peacebuilding strategies and conflict mediation.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of peacekeeping operations.
- Apply conflict resolution tools to case studies.
Political Sociology and Social Movements
- Explain the relationship between politics and society.
- Analyse social movements and collective action.
- Evaluate the role of identity and culture in politics.
- Apply sociological theories to political behaviour.
Policy-Making and Public Policy Analysis
- Understand the stages of the policy-making process.
- Analyse policy tools and frameworks.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of public policies.
- Apply policy analysis methods to real-world issues.
International Political Economy
- Explain theories of global trade and finance.
- Analyse the impact of globalisation on economies.
- Evaluate international economic institutions.
- Apply concepts to global economic case studies.
Comparative Foreign Policy
- Compare foreign policies of major powers.
- Analyse national interests and decision-making factors.
- Evaluate the impact of ideology on foreign policy.
- Apply frameworks to assess international relations.
Security Studies and Global Challenges
- Understand the concept of national and global security.
- Analyse threats including terrorism, cybercrime, and WMDs.
- Evaluate the role of security organisations.
- Apply security theories to case studies.
Research Methods and Data Analysis in Politics
- Understand advanced data analysis techniques.
- Apply statistical methods to political studies.
- Develop evidence-based political arguments.
- Interpret data to support research findings.
Ethics and Professional Practice in Political Science
- Recognise ethical dilemmas in political practice.
- Apply ethical frameworks to decision-making.
- Evaluate professional standards in political research.
- Promote accountability and integrity in practice.
Year 3 – Advanced Political Science & International Relations
Contemporary Issues in International Relations
- Identify key global issues such as migration, climate, and security.
- Analyse their political, social, and economic implications.
- Evaluate international responses and solutions.
- Apply critical thinking to global issues.
Strategic Studies and National Security
- Understand theories of strategy and security policy.
- Analyse defence policies and military strategies.
- Evaluate security challenges in global politics.
- Apply strategic frameworks to national contexts.
International Diplomacy and Negotiation
- Master principles of negotiation and mediation.
- Analyse case studies of successful and failed diplomacy.
- Evaluate strategies used in international negotiations.
- Apply diplomatic skills in simulated scenarios.
Policy Analysis and Political Reform
- Understand tools of policy analysis and evaluation.
- Analyse the impact of political reforms on governance.
- Evaluate reforms in democratic and non-democratic systems.
- Apply policy analysis to propose recommendations.
Globalisation and Transnational Politics
- Explain the dynamics of globalisation.
- Analyse the role of transnational actors and NGOs.
- Evaluate challenges posed by global interdependence.
- Apply theories to globalisation case studies.
Leadership and Governance in Political Institutions
- Understand leadership theories in political contexts.
- Analyse governance models across institutions.
- Evaluate qualities of effective political leadership.
- Apply leadership strategies in political settings.
International Conflict and Crisis Management
- Understand causes and consequences of global conflicts.
- Analyse crisis management frameworks.
- Evaluate peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery.
- Apply crisis management strategies to real cases.
Political Risk Analysis and Strategic Decision-Making
- Understand concepts of political risk.
- Analyse risks in global investment and trade.
- Evaluate tools for risk assessment.
- Apply risk analysis to international scenarios.
Environmental Politics and Global Sustainability
- Understand global environmental challenges.
- Analyse international agreements on climate change.
- Evaluate sustainable development strategies.
- Apply frameworks to environmental case studies.
International Cooperation and Development Projects
- Explain principles of international cooperation.
- Analyse the role of aid and development projects.
- Evaluate the success of international partnerships.
- Apply project planning tools to development initiatives.
Innovation and Emerging Trends in Global Politics
- Identify new trends in global politics.
- Analyse the impact of technology and digital governance.
- Evaluate the role of innovation in political change.
- Apply foresight methods to anticipate future trends.
Capstone Project in Political Science & International Relations
- Design and implement an independent research project.
- Apply theories and methods learned throughout the programme.
- Analyse complex political and international issues.
- Present findings in a professional and academic format.
The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations opens doors to diverse academic, professional, and research opportunities. This qualification equips learners with the knowledge, analytical skills, and practical expertise needed to progress into advanced studies, impactful careers in governance and diplomacy, and continuous professional development in global political affairs.
Academic Progression
The diploma establishes a strong academic platform for further studies and professional development.
- Learners may progress to higher-level international diplomas and qualifications in specialised areas such as diplomacy, global governance, public policy, political economy, and security studies.
- Many centres offer advanced professional courses that complement this diploma, including certifications in public administration, leadership, international negotiation, and conflict resolution.
- Research-driven qualifications are also available, enabling learners to refine their analytical and methodological skills while contributing to the body of political science knowledge.
- Opportunities to attend professional seminars, advanced workshops, and global training initiatives further enhance academic growth and intellectual development.
Professional Progression
The diploma equips learners with the skills needed for impactful careers across the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
- Graduates can enter roles within government ministries, embassies, foreign offices, or international organisations such as the UN, EU, or regional cooperation bodies.
- Career opportunities include working as political analysts, policy advisors, international relations officers, public administrators, or global affairs consultants.
- NGOs and think tanks also offer opportunities for advocacy, policy research, and programme management aimed at addressing social, political, and developmental issues.
- Additional career pathways exist in journalism, political communication, campaign strategy, humanitarian organisations, and leadership positions within community or global development initiatives.
Research and Development Opportunities
This diploma encourages learners to engage with political research and applied studies.
- Learners may contribute to independent or collaborative research projects focusing on international security, development, governance, or human rights.
- Opportunities exist to publish policy briefs, research papers, and academic articles in political science journals or global research platforms.
- International conferences, forums, and symposiums provide avenues for sharing research findings, engaging with experts, and expanding professional networks.
- Many learners also pursue applied research that informs government decision-making, enhances policy frameworks, and supports international cooperation projects.
Lifelong Learning and Professional Growth
The skills and knowledge gained from this diploma also support continuous professional development.
- Learners are encouraged to participate in professional training, executive education, and leadership programmes designed for political and international relations professionals.
- Networking with political leaders, diplomats, and global experts strengthens career progression and opens opportunities for international collaboration.
- Lifelong learning opportunities ensure that learners remain up to date with evolving trends such as digital diplomacy, globalisation, sustainable development, and political innovation.
- This continuous growth enables learners to take on senior roles and influence policies at national, regional, and global levels.
Centres offering the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations must fulfil specific academic, administrative, and professional standards. These requirements ensure learners receive high-quality training, effective assessments, and strong academic support throughout the three-year programme.
Academic and Administrative Infrastructure
- Provide well-equipped classrooms with modern teaching facilities
- Maintain access to libraries, research databases, and digital resources
- Establish reliable administrative systems for learner records and documentation
- Ensure proper quality assurance measures and programme monitoring
Qualified and Experienced Faculty
- Appoint tutors with relevant academic qualifications in political science, international relations, or related fields
- Ensure faculty have professional experience in governance, diplomacy, or policy-making
- Provide assessors with expertise in evaluating both academic and practical work
- Encourage staff participation in continuous professional development
Learning Resources and Support
- Offer learners access to textbooks, journals, case studies, and multimedia content
- Provide online learning platforms and e-learning tools for flexible study options
- Facilitate interactive learning through workshops, seminars, and group discussions
- Deliver academic counselling and career guidance services for learners
Assessment and Quality Assurance
- Implement fair, transparent, and structured assessment methods
- Use a variety of evaluation tools including assignments, research projects, and exams
- Conduct regular internal verification and moderation of assessments
- Adhere to ICTQual AB’s academic and assessment quality standards
Professional and Ethical Standards
- Promote equal opportunities and ensure diversity and inclusion within the centre
- Establish safeguarding policies to protect learners’ welfare
- Maintain integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in all activities
- Support continuous improvement through feedback and staff training
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This route is designed for learners who are new to political science and international relations and do not have prior professional experience.
- Admission: Learners enrol at an ICTQual AB approved centre to begin the three-year programme.
- Training: Structured training covers all 36 study units across three years, including theoretical instruction, case studies, research-based tasks, and project work.
- Assessment: Learners complete assignments, research projects, presentations, and examinations aligned with programme learning outcomes.
- Certification: On successful completion of all assessments and training, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
This route is available to learners who already have relevant work experience in political science, governance, diplomacy, or related fields.
- Eligibility: Learners must provide evidence of at least six years of verified experience in political affairs, public administration, policy-making, or international relations.
- Assessment of Competence:Experienced learners may bypass full training and undergo a structured assessment to demonstrate existing knowledge and skills.
- Evidence Submission: Documentation such as job roles, responsibilities, policy contributions, or project experience must be submitted to validate competence.
- Knowledge and Understanding: Centres may conduct a skills gap assessment to identify if any additional training is required.
- Certification: Once competence and experience are verified, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Political Science & International Relations without completing the full three-year programme.
This dual-route approach ensures learners either gain comprehensive knowledge through structured training or demonstrate existing competency, providing flexibility while maintaining high international standards in Political Science & International Relations