Liberal Arts & Business

U.S. Department of State

An Exciting Career Option: U.S. Department of State

The men and women employed by the Department of State with their skills, character and commitment to public service, are the backbone of America's diplomacy. To achieve their mission, they manage diplomatic relations with other countries and international institutions; promote peace and stability in regions of vital interest; support U.S. businesses at home and abroad; help developing nations establish stable economic environments; provide information and services for citizens traveling and living abroad; and issue visas for foreign persons wishing to enter the United States.

Consult the various links below to learn how your energy and education can enable you to play a substantive role in the international arena of diplomacy.

About the U.S. Department of State
Mission Statement
So, You Want to Be a Diplomat? Article by Les McBee, former diplomat. Answers to frequently asked questions about the foreign service.
U.S. Department of State Diplomat on Campus - Brooks A. Robinson
State Department Career Navigator
How to Know if the Foreign Service is Right for You
Which Career Track is Right for You
Watch video of the Director General's visit to UC Davis and learn about life in the Foreign Service.
Becoming a Foreign Service Officer in over 265 worldwide locations (use this link to get started on the application process)
Foreign Service Specialist opportunities: engineers, health care specialists, teachers, etc. serving worldwide
Civil Service Opportunities: Domestic positions located mostly in Washington, D.C. that involve occasional travel
Internships and Student Programs (including their downloadable internship brochure for 2012-13)

Email Updates for the State Department: opportunities delivered right to your mailbox
State Department Events
State Department suggested reading list to assist in being well-informed and knowledgeable across many disciplines
Foreign Service Oral Assessment Study Guide by the U.S. Dept. of State.
Keep Me Informed - email subscription service where you can get the Careers@State Newsletter
General Information on Work Life (benefits, finance, etc.) and family life
Employee Experiences
13 Dimensions (Qualities the State Dept. looks for in Foreign Service Officers)
US Agency for International Development (USAID) and USAID careers for those considering other options in the federal government

Steve Browning, Ambassador

Dept. of State Diplomat for UC Davis

Available Resources:
Inside a U.S. Embassy - How the Foreign Service Works for America
Read this book in 215 South Hall

Information on the Foreign Service Officer Test Study Guide

Ken's Tips on opportunities in the State Department.

Other Resources (unofficial but useful)

Related background information:

Need more information? See Ken Barnes in 211 South Hall or email klbarnes@ucdavis.edu.