Get your Master's Degree Major in Diplomacy, Security, Commerce or Development

2024 ISCNE Anne Ngarhasta — Anne Ngarhasta takes charge at the 2024 Crisis Simulation.

Mark Mahan

Masters in Diplomacy and International Commerce

The Patterson School curriculum is carefully designed to prepare exceptional students for careers in international affairs. If you are a high achiever, bring passion to learning, flourish in a rigorous academic environment, and intend to operate on the world stage, this may be your place. Our master's program will provide you with the fundamental skills you need to successfully pursue professional work in either the public, private, or non-profit sectors.

Four concentrations

Diplomacy

International Commerce

International Organizations and Development

International Security and Intelligence

The (He)art of Wargaming Conference

Feb 25, 2027

Wargames—games specifically designed to simulate conflict and build strategic and communicative skills—have (re)emerged as a field of study in the social sciences. With the advancement of technology, wargames have transitioned from abstract physical games into the realm of complex digital simulations. While these complex simulations produce richer activities for participants and more nuanced data for research and teachers alike, they also present timely opportunities for humanistic critique.

Patterson In-Person Open House - October 20th, 6-7:30, MH 312

Oct 20, 2026, 6:00 – 7:30 PM

Please join us for our in-person Open House. During this event, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the program, meet faculty and current students, and ask any questions you have about applying or the program itself. Snacks and drinks will be provided. When: October 20th, 6-7:30PM Where: Miller Hall 312 If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to nash.meade@uky.edu. RSVP using this link: https://forms.gle/yW4kVCAp8jRf1fiR6

Fall Conference 2026 Keynote Address - Ambassador (ret.) William B Taylor

Oct 22, 2026, 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Please join us for a keynote address from the distinguished Ambassador (ret.) William B Taylor.

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Upcoming Events

The (He)art of Wargaming Conference

Feb 25, 2027

Wargames—games specifically designed to simulate conflict and build strategic and communicative skills—have (re)emerged as a field of study in the social sciences. With the advancement of technology, wargames have transitioned from abstract physical games into the realm of complex digital simulations. While these complex simulations produce richer activities for participants and more nuanced data for research and teachers alike, they also present timely opportunities for humanistic critique.

Learning beyond the curriculum

Visiting Speakers

Patterson students are frequently visited by special guest speakers: admirals, presidents, intelligence experts, diplomats and leaders of international NGOs. Quite often an international expert is sharing a room with 35 our brightest.

24 10 15 ISCNE Crisis Sim Room, three students discuss

Diplomacy Simulations

Each fall, we host the U.S. Army War College's International Strategic Crisis Exercise team for fast-paced two day simulation of a real world diplomatic crisis. Students form teams, act as diplomats, and try to negotiate a way forward.

2024 ISCNE: Central Asia

2022 Fall ISCNE: South China Sea

2022 Spring Crisis Simulation: Migration Crisis, Latin America

Fall Conference

Patterson brings experts in international issues from around the globe to speak share a room solely with Patterson students and discuss some of the most pressing issues in trade, development, security and the shifting balance of international power in a day long event. Four panels of practitioners, ambassadors, military officials, and global leaders, are up close and personal. Students will meet, mingle, and engage them in this exclusive event.

60 Years of history

Established in 1959, the Patterson legacy is rich and deep.

45 Fall 2025 total enrollment

At this size, each student has unparalleled access to faculty and resources.

18 Months

Three semesters of coursework, summer reading, travel, crisis simulations, speakers and more.

Get your Master's Degree Major in Diplomacy, Security, Commerce or Development

Four concentrations

Upcoming Events

Learning beyond the curriculum

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