About

The Institute for the Study of Diplomacy (ISD) has advanced diplomatic scholarship and practice since 1978.

Georgetown University’s Institute for the Study of Diplomacy bridges academic theory and practitioner experience to address increasingly complex global challenges, from geopolitical conflicts to transnational threats, the global commons, evolving diplomatic statecraft and the emerging multipolar order.  

The institute weaves research and practice to generate new ideas and approaches, and teaches, mentors, and prepares the next generation of foreign policy practitioners to craft sustainable solutions to current, emerging and yet-unknown challenges.

About the Institute

Learn more about ISD’s mission and how to get in touch with our team.

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Our mission

Understand the ideas and commitments that drive our approach to diplomacy and international affairs.

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Contact us

Reach out to the ISD team with questions about our work, programs, or events.

Academics

ISD offers programs across every stage of an international career — from undergraduate and graduate certificates to executive education for senior professionals.

Undergraduate

The certificate in diplomatic studies combines coursework with real-world practitioner perspectives.

Graduate

Our graduate certificates are taught by veteran diplomats, service members and policymakers with decades of field experience.

Executive Education

Intensive programs for mid-career and senior professionals.

Diplomatic Research

ISD’s research brings together scholarship and practice. Our research spans case studies drawn from over 250 episodes of diplomatic history, working groups that tackle the world’s most pressing challenges, a podcast featuring candid conversations with practitioners and scholars, and the America’s Diplomats video series. Together, these resources serve students, educators, researchers and policymakers seeking rigorous, experience-grounded perspectives on international affairs.

Upcoming Events

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There are no upcoming events at this time.

Featured News

  • Spring 2027 CDS Capstone Application Now Open

    The application for the Spring 2027 CDS Capstone Courses is now open! Please use the links below to access the application and view the recording of the information session. Application…

  • Andrea Mitchell addresses a group of students.

    2026 ISD Graduation Celebrations

    ISD Graduation Celebration On May 13, the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy hosted its 2026 Graduation Celebration at DACOR Bacon House, honoring the accomplishments of Certificate in Diplomatic Studies candidates, ISD Capstone…

  • April 23rd Event | America's Diplomats: A Conversation with Ambassador (ret.) Kamala S. Lakhdhir event graphic

    April 23rd Event | America’s Diplomats: A Conversation with Ambassador (ret.) Kamala S. Lakhdhir

    A Conversation with Ambassador (ret.) Kamala S. Lakhdhir  United States Ambassador to Indonesia (2024-2025)Executive Secretary, U.S. State Department (2021-2023)United States Ambassador to Malaysia (2017-2021) Ambassador (ret.) Barbara BodineDirector, Institute for…

Support Us

ISD’s work is sustained by the generosity of those who believe in diplomacy’s essential role in the world. Your support helps fund fellowships, scholarships, research, and programs that prepare the next generation of diplomatic practitioners.