The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University

Unique Fields of Study Prepare Students for Impactful Global Careers

Regardless of the career paths international relations (IR) students may embark upon, acquiring negotiation and conflict resolution skills that enable them to navigate complex global challenges and foster cooperation remains indispensable. Innovative and forward-thinking, the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy allows students to develop expertise in these areas in unique ways.

The school’s International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution (INCR) program is rooted in interest-based bargaining that goes beyond negotiation skills to build processes by which differences can be examined, understood, and worked through. Students participate in lectures led by field experts with in-the-room experience, practical simulations, diplomatic exercises, and real-world case studies.

The Mediation Practicum brings students to a Massachusetts small claims court, where they develop a broader understanding of the complexities and nuances involved in mediation, training with local mediators and interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures to eventually work on cases independently. “You might think it has nothing to do with international relations, but you would be wrong,” explains Eileen Babbitt, professor of practice of international conflict management. “Even at the highest levels of international relations, it’s two human beings sitting down trying to figure something out.”

Babbitt adds, “Although it’s not a required course, it’s one that everyone is drawn to because negotiation is a key skill for decision-making for leadership and management, and our students take it into whatever careers or content area they then pursue.” What’s more, the coursework helps students “sail through” the oral portion of the Foreign Service Officer exam. “The exercise is basically a simulated negotiation, and our students are completely prepared and know exactly what to do,” Babbitt points out.

The Fletcher School’s other standout area of study is human security, which isn’t offered by any other IR master’s program. Based on the notion that security is not only about the state’s military strength but also the well-being of its people and communities, the framework has gained traction in Europe, Asia, and Canada. Much like the INCR program, it relies on consultation, engagement, and listening skills to build security from the ground up, rather than from the top down.

The Fletcher School values applicants who demonstrate a willingness to reflect and learn from personal experiences, as well as those of their fellow students. Applicants can also gain an advantage if they’ve had opportunities to travel, reside, or work in other countries.

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Far-Reaching Alumni Community Unlocks Professional Opportunities

The Fletcher School’s tight-knit alumni community supports graduates through regular symposia and alumni events worldwide, where alumni hold leadership positions across various sectors. Students can attend both virtual and in-person networking events with alumni that are tailored to their career interests. The school’s employer events offer informal networking opportunities, while student-led conferences include networking sessions with attendees. The Career Center organizes dedicated exploration days, career education sessions, workshops, one-to-one coaching, and career trips to Washington, DC.
>>>The school has made investments in self-service resources, such as job board subscriptions and a searchable alumni database linked to the school’s career management system. Additionally, students can take advantage of the school’s summer internship funding.

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The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University
https://fletcher.tufts.edu
[email protected]
617-627-3040