International Relation

Gain a profound understanding of global politics, diplomacy, and international cooperation. Develop the analytical frameworks and cross-cultural competencies needed to address complex global challenges and lead on the world stage.

Program Overview

Master

International Relation

The Master’s Degree in International Relations at Phnom Penh International University (PPIU) is an advanced, forward-looking curriculum engineered to provide an analytical understanding of contemporary global affairs, multilateral diplomacy, and international cooperation. As geopolitical landscapes and transnational policies shift rapidly, this program prepares students to dissect complex global crises and design sustainable, cooperative solutions. PPIU empowers graduate students with the research precision, strategic negotiation tactics, and policy-analysis skills necessary to navigate high-stakes international settings. Graduates are uniquely positioned to foster impactful leadership and drive strategic collaboration in global governance, international law, and diplomatic sectors. To complete master program in International Relation, students have 2 options. Option 1: Students have to complete 11 courses, equal to 33 credits and must complete their Master's thesis with proposal defense and final defense, which is equal to 12 credits. Option 2: Students have to complete 13 courses, equal to 39 credits and must complete their research proposal with a defense, which is equal to 6 credits. For the state exam, students have to be examined on 2 courses in Major Courses. PPIU strongly recommend student choose option 1. Students who want to pursue master course is not in majoring of bachelor, they must take pre-master with 3 courses such; Introduction to Political Science, History of Cambodia Foreign Policy, and Public Policy Analysis. If a student has relevant experience and can provide documentation, the Postgraduate School will consider waiving some courses in the pre-master program.
Curriculum

Course Catalog

the curriculum consists of core compulsory subjects and a selection of electives that allow students to specialize in their chosen field.

Common Courses

~6 credits
Course TitleCredit
Course TitleCredit
Leadership & Organizational Behaviour 3
Theory of State 3

Major Courses

~24 credits
Course TitleCredit
Course TitleCredit
Labor Law 3
International Criminal Law 3
Applied Statistics 3
Human Rights Law 3
Negotiation & Conflict Resolution 3
Global Governance & Policy Analysis 3
International Political Economy & Public Policy 3
Research Methodology 3

Elective Courses

~21 credits
Course TitleCredit
Course TitleCredit
Taxation & Fiscal Policy 3
International Commercial Law 3
Alternative Dispute Resolution 3
Territorial Administrative Management 3
Administrative Science 3
Land Law & Dispute Resolution 3
Public Management & Leadership 3

Option 1: Thesis Writing

~12 credits
Course TitleCredit
Course TitleCredit
Master's Thesis (Defence Proposal & Thesis) 12

Option 2: Proposal Writing and State Exam

~6 credits
Course TitleCredit
Course TitleCredit
Defence Proposal 6
Examined on 2 subjects for state exam 0

Course titles and credit hours are indicative. The official curriculum is published each academic year by the Dean’s office and is subject to update.

Competencies

Program Learning Outcomes

Hard Skills

International Relations & Global Governance

Develop knowledge of international relations, global governance systems, and the political and institutional factors shaping international affairs.

Policy Analysis & Public Policy

Apply policy analysis frameworks to assess public policies, evaluate their impacts, and develop evidence-based policy recommendations.

International Political Economy

Analyze the relationship between international politics, economic systems, trade, and public policy in a global environment.

Diplomatic Negotiation & Conflict Resolution

Develop practical approaches to negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution in international and organizational settings.

Research & Statistical Analysis

Apply research methodologies and statistical techniques to collect, analyze, and interpret data for academic and policy-related research.

Human Rights & International Law

Understand human rights principles and legal frameworks relevant to international relations, governance, and social justice.

Soft Skills

Diplomatic Communication

Develop clear, professional, and culturally sensitive communication skills for engaging with diverse individuals, institutions, and international stakeholders.

Negotiation & Mediation

Build the ability to negotiate effectively, manage competing interests, and facilitate constructive solutions to disputes and conflicts.

Critical & Policy Thinking

Strengthen the ability to examine complex political, social, and economic issues and evaluate their implications from multiple perspectives.

Cross-Cultural Awareness

Develop the ability to understand cultural differences, work effectively with diverse groups, and navigate international environments.

Leadership & Governance

Build leadership capabilities for working within public institutions, international organizations, and other governance-related environments.

Ethical & Human Rights Awareness

Develop professional judgment grounded in ethical principles, human rights, fairness, and social responsibility.

Entry Requirements

What you need to apply.

Academic Requirement:

Must have a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent certificate in a related field. If a student has an academic background in a different major from their bachelor's degree, they must complete a pre-master program with 3 subjects. If student has relevant experience and can provide documentation, the Postgraduate School will consider waiving some courses in the pre-master program.

Language

Khmer instruction. Some programs in English.

Document Required

Application form, BACII Certificate, 3 recent photos (4x6), National identity card, Birth certificate (if applicable.)