While Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce was established in 1959, the idea for the school began much earlier, with the first president of the University of Kentucky, of which Patterson is a part. The school in fact takes its name from the son of this UK president who had the idea – Dr. James Kennedy Patterson. He wished to improve Americans’ level of skill in international relations, particularly after the Spanish-American War in 1898, and although he passed away in 1910, in 1922 funds he left behind finally began to make the school possible.Show more
Programmes of Study at Patterson
Until 1970 the school offered a masters as well as a doctorate degree, but after this decided to focus solely on its masters programme, which concentrates on four main areas: diplomacy, international commerce, international organisations and development, and international security and intelligence. To prepare students as well as possible for international affairs, the school has a very small and selective intake of only 35 new students each year, making up the total student body of 70 full-time masters students resident at the school. After their studies, Patterson graduates work many different types of jobs, such as in the private sector, in international organisations, and in governments. Incoming students come from various walks of life as scholars or experienced professionals.
Connections to the Industry
Students are well prepared at Patterson by courses covering as many theoretical aspects as they do practical, with a global point of view to encourage students to think outside their own country.
The school also makes regular field trips to various organisations and corporations – something they are able to do due to their lower number of students, as well as bringing significant leaders of these places to the college itself to talk and engage with the students.
Over to you!
Are you a current or former student at Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce? If you are/were, we want to hear from you! Please tell us about your time there in the comments below, you never know who you may help with your story!