Mission, Vision & Goals

Since 1959, the Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce has prepared future leaders for rewarding careers in international affairs.

The Patterson School's hallmarks have been its intimate size, its selectivity, and its combination of diplomatic and commercial studies. Around the globe, Patterson graduates pursue exciting careers with governments, international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, and the private sector.

With a faculty dedicated to providing an unparalleled learning experience, we ensure students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to have an impact on the world stage. Our graduates seek more than just a profession; they want to change the world. Patterson School faculty are a mix of exceptional scholars and practitioners with decades of experience in diplomacy, commerce, business, defense, development and intelligence. They know firsthand what is needed to succeed in the international arena.

The Patterson School serves the state, nation and world by the rigorous education of future leaders to work in the fields of international diplomacy, commerce, development, and intelligence and security. This is accomplished in a flexible, intimate learning environment that integrates academic studies, practical training, and real world experience. Our graduates emerge ready to undertake challenging careers with global responsibilities in the public, private and non-profit sectors.

With a tradition of leadership and innovation, and a commitment to excellence, the Patterson School is keenly focused on what will be required to prepare international policymakers to meet the demands of the 21st century. We continue to be guided by James Patterson’s visionary approach to the integrated study of diplomacy and international commerce. We constantly refine our curriculum to ensure that we are effectively educating future global leaders in both fields. As one of the nation’s leading masters programs in international affairs, we are building upon a very solid foundation.

As we enter our seventh decade, our strategic goals remain clear. We will continue our focus on world class master's level education, and will maintain the selectivity of our student cohort. At the same time, we are committed to increasing significantly the financial support available for students and further enhancing the quality of our program. Integral to this vision are:

• Attracting students of ever-greater diversity and excellence.
• Integrating innovative technologies to transform learning experience and school operations.
• Expanding the range and quality of corporate, governmental, and military co-curricular activities.
• Developing strategic partnerships with additional public and private sector actors.
• Expanding our outreach activities to benefit UK, the community, the Commonwealth and the nation.