Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Commercial Diplomacy and International Relations

Feb 24
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for senior professionals, policy advisors, diplomats, executives, and scholars who seek to generate original knowledge and strategic insight in the fields of commercial diplomacy and international relations. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the third European cycle, the program represents the highest level of academic and research specialization within the European higher education framework.

Structured around seven integrated modules, the program combines advanced theoretical foundations with rigorous research training:

Four research-focused modules dedicated to research philosophy, advanced qualitative and quantitative methodologies, global policy analysis, academic publishing standards, and the development of impactful scholarly contributions.
Two general modules designed to strengthen strategic leadership, global governance analysis, institutional diplomacy, regulatory frameworks, and high-level decision-making in international contexts.
One specialized module in Commercial Diplomacy and International Relations, focusing on economic statecraft, trade diplomacy, multilateral negotiations, geopolitical strategy, international organizations, global market systems, and the intersection of commerce and foreign policy.

The program culminates in a substantial thesis and structured research activities that demonstrate the candidate’s capacity to produce original, independent, and policy-relevant research addressing contemporary global economic and diplomatic challenges.

With a minimum duration of 18 months, participants benefit from flexible progression pathways, allowing extension of the study period according to the scope and depth of their research. The program is designed for experienced professionals and academics who aim to influence international policy environments, strengthen institutional strategies, and contribute to scholarly discourse in commercial diplomacy and international relations.

This doctorate study program develops advanced competencies in:

Economic diplomacy and strategic trade negotiations
International political economy and global governance
Geopolitical risk and international policy design
Multilateral institutions and regulatory frameworks
Strategic global leadership and diplomatic engagement

Graduates are prepared to operate at executive, advisory, academic, and research levels, shaping policy debates and contributing innovative insights to international economic and diplomatic systems.