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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Diplomats.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Diplomats.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 3%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Package collected pieces of evidence in securely closed containers, such as bags, crates, or boxes, to protect them.
Prepare and maintain reports of investigation results, and records of convicted arsonists and arson suspects.
Testify in court cases involving fires, suspected arson, and false alarms.
Becoming a diplomat often represents the pinnacle of a career in foreign service, where individuals represent and protect their nation's interests abroad. If you're interested in pursuing this path, here are the steps you typically need to follow:
Diplomats are officials who reside in foreign countries to manage diplomatic relations and represent their home country. Their responsibilities include:
Most diplomats have at least a bachelor's degree, with many holding advanced degrees in fields such as:
Consider pursuing higher education or specialized training in areas pertinent to international affairs.
Practical experience can significantly enhance your resume. Look for opportunities such as:
A successful diplomat needs a specific set of skills, including:
In the United States, candidates must pass the FSOT, administered by the U.S. Department of State. The test assesses a candidate’s knowledge of:
After passing the FSOT, candidates face the QEP, which evaluates their personal narratives and qualifications. Successful candidates are then invited to the FSOA—an oral examination that assesses:
Candidates must undergo thorough background checks for security clearance and meet specific medical requirements to ensure they can serve worldwide.
Once clearances are obtained, diplomats-in-training attend courses at the FSI or equivalent institutions in other countries, where they learn about diplomatic practice, foreign cultures, and languages.
New diplomats typically start in consular or political positions and may serve in various domestic offices or embassies around the world. It is essential to gain diverse experience to advance in your diplomatic career.
Remember, becoming a diplomat is a competitive process that requires dedication, patience, and a commitment to public service. Start preparing early, stay informed about global affairs, and continuously work on developing the necessary skills and qualifications.
To become a diplomat, typically, you need at least a bachelor's degree. However, there are no specific degree requirements. Many diplomats have degrees in fields such as:
Further education, like a master's degree or Ph.D., can be beneficial and sometimes give candidates an edge in the competitive selection process.
Diplomats need a diverse set of skills to be successful, including:
The path to becoming a diplomat usually involves the following steps:
While not always mandatory, knowledge of one or more foreign languages is highly advantageous for a career as a diplomat. Some foreign service departments offer language training to candidates who have passed other stages of the selection process.
Diplomats can specialize in various areas, with common roles including:
Generally, diplomats do not have full control over their assignments. They can express preferences, but assignments are typically made based on the needs of the diplomatic service and an individual’s skills and experience.
A typical assignment for a diplomat can last from one to four years. The duration may vary based on the host country's situation, specific job roles, and personal circumstances.
Yes, diplomats can advance their careers by taking on more complex assignments, moving to larger embassies or consulates, or returning to their home countries for positions at the foreign ministry or other government departments.
Diplomats often lead dynamic lives that can include:
Diplomats may face health or safety risks depending on their assignment location. Governments take precautions to protect their diplomats, including providing secure housing and access to quality healthcare.
For comprehensive information about becoming a diplomat in your country, visit your government's official foreign service careers website. For example, in the United States, detailed guidance is available at Careers Representing America (noopener noreferrer).