How to Become a Foreign Diplomat: Best Political Science Programs in South Africa for 2025
Are you driven by a passion for international relations and eager to represent South Africa on the global stage as a foreign diplomat? With South Africa hosting 135 diplomatic missions in Pretoria (DIRCO, 2023) and playing a pivotal role in African and global affairs, a career in diplomacy offers prestige, impact, and adventure.
What Does a Foreign Diplomat Do?
A foreign diplomat represents South Africa abroad, fostering political, economic, and social ties with other nations. Working under the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), diplomats:
Negotiate treaties and trade agreements.
Promote South Africa’s interests at embassies or consulates.
Report on global events to influence foreign policy.
Support South Africans abroad, from visa issues to emergencies.
Salaries range from R244,898 to R1M+ annually (MyGGSA, 2024), with top earners in senior roles like ambassadors. Ready to embark on this journey? Here’s how.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Foreign Diplomat in South Africa
Step 1: Build a Strong Academic Foundation
- High School Requirements: Obtain a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s pass.
- Key Subjects:
- English: 60%+ for communication skills.
- History: 60%+ for geopolitical context.
- Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy: 50%+ for analytical ability.
- APS: Aim for 30–40+, depending on university requirements.
Step 2: Earn a Relevant Degree
- Minimum Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree (3–4 years) in fields like Political Science, International Relations, Economics, or Law.
- Why It Matters: DIRCO prioritizes candidates with knowledge of global politics and diplomacy.
Step 3: Pursue Postgraduate Studies (Recommended)
- Options: Honours (1 year) or Master’s (2 years) in International Relations or Political Science.
- Advantage: Enhances competitiveness for DIRCO’s selective cadet program.
Step 4: Gain Experience
- Internships: Apply for roles at DIRCO, NGOs, or international organizations.
- Languages: Learn French, Arabic, or Mandarin—key for postings abroad.
- Skills: Develop public speaking, writing, and negotiation through extracurriculars.
Step 5: Join DIRCO’s Diplomatic Cadet Program
- Process: Apply annually (intake starts January) for this 6–12-month training in Pretoria.
- Training: Covers protocol, diplomatic reporting, and foreign policy influence.
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree, adaptability, and a clean background check.
Step 6: Serve and Advance
- Initial Posting: Work in South Africa or abroad at one of 116 diplomatic missions (DIRCO, 2023).
- Career Path: Progress from junior officer to ambassador with experience and merit.
Best Political Science Programs in South Africa for Aspiring Diplomats
These universities offer top-tier Political Science programs, blending theory, research, and practical skills to prepare you for diplomacy. All are ranked based on QS 2025, EduRank 2024 citations, and career outcomes.
1. University of Cape Town (UCT) – BA Political Science & International Relations
- Why It’s the Best: UCT, ranked 171 globally (QS 2025) and SA’s research leader (2.91M citations, EduRank, 2024), offers a world-class curriculum with a focus on African and global politics.
- Program Highlights:
- Courses: International Relations, Conflict Resolution, African Politics.
- Strengths: Research via the Centre for Conflict Resolution.
- Admission: APS 38+, NSC with English and History (60%+).
- Cost: ~R50,000–R60,000/year.
- How to Apply: uct.ac.za.
2. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – BA Political Studies
- Why It’s the Best: Wits, in Johannesburg’s academic hub, excels in critical political analysis and boasts alumni like Nobel laureate Sydney Brenner.
- Program Highlights:
- Courses: Global Governance, Political Theory, South-South Relations.
- Strengths: Urban focus and policy research.
- Admission: APS 40+, NSC with English (60%+), NBT required.
- Cost: ~R55,000–R65,000/year.
- How to Apply: wits.ac.za.
3. Stellenbosch University – BA International Studies
- Why It’s the Best: With 353K citations (EduRank, 2024), Stellenbosch offers a global perspective and bilingual training (English/Afrikaans).
- Program Highlights:
- Courses: Diplomacy, International Law, Political Economy.
- Strengths: Ties to the Centre for International and Comparative Politics.
- Admission: APS 34+, NSC with English/Afrikaans (65%+).
- Cost: ~R45,000–R55,000/year.
- How to Apply: sun.ac.za.
4. University of Pretoria (UP) – BA Political Sciences
- Why It’s the Best: UP, near DIRCO’s Pretoria headquarters, emphasizes practical diplomacy and African geopolitics.
- Program Highlights:
- Courses: Foreign Policy Analysis, Peace Studies, Political Risk.
- Strengths: Proximity to diplomatic networks.
- Admission: APS 35+, NSC with English (60%+).
- Cost: ~R50,000–R60,000/year.
- How to Apply: up.ac.za.
5. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – BA Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE)
- Why It’s the Best: UKZN’s PPE program blends political science with economics, ideal for diplomats tackling trade and policy.
- Program Highlights:
- Courses: International Political Economy, Ethics, Global South Politics.
- Strengths: Focus on BRICS and African integration.
- Admission: APS 33+, NSC with English (60%+).
- Cost: ~R40,000–R50,000/year.
- How to Apply: ukzn.ac.za.
Comparing the Top Programs
| University | Key Focus | Research Citations | APS | Cost/Year | Career Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UCT | Global & African Politics | 2.91M | 38+ | R50K–R60K | Research, diplomacy |
| Wits | Critical Analysis | Strong | 40+ | R55K–R65K | Policy, urban focus |
| Stellenbosch | International Studies | 353K | 34+ | R45K–R55K | Bilingual, global |
| UP | Practical Diplomacy | High | 35+ | R50K–R60K | DIRCO proximity |
| UKZN | PPE, BRICS Focus | Notable | 33+ | R40K–R50K | Economics, trade |
Top Pick: UCT for its global prestige and research depth.
Why Political Science is Key for Diplomacy
Core Skills: Teaches negotiation, policy analysis, and cross-cultural understanding.
Global Context: Covers SA’s role in BRICS, AU, and SADC.
Career Prep: Aligns with DIRCO’s need for strategic thinkers.
Career Outlook
- Starting Salary: R244,898–R500,000/year.
- Senior Roles: R1M+ as ambassadors or heads of mission.
- Demand: Steady, with 116 missions needing skilled diplomats (DIRCO, 2023).
- Global Reach: Postings in Europe, Asia, and beyond.
Tips for Success
- Learn Languages: French or Spanish boosts your profile.
- Network: Attend DIRCO events or join SAIIA (South African Institute of International Affairs).
- Experience: Intern at embassies or UN agencies.
- Apply Early: Cadet program deadlines are typically November–December 2025 for 2026.
Conclusion: Your Diplomatic Career Begins Here
To become a foreign diplomat in South Africa, earn a Political Science degree from UCT, Wits, Stellenbosch, UP, or UKZN, then join DIRCO’s cadet program. With UCT leading for its global standing, these programs equip you with the knowledge and skills to excel in diplomacy. Start today—ace your matric, choose your university, and step into a career shaping South Africa’s global future in 2025.
