PEACE AND CONFLICT STUDIES

School of Health and Human Sciences

The Peace and Conflict Studies curriculum employs an interdisciplinary, critical, and social justice approach to conflict theory, peace studies, research, and practice. Our courses are designed not only for aspiring conflict professionals, but also for students in other programs looking to enhance their skills through peace and conflict electives.

The PACS PBC has 2 modes of delivery. It can be completed on-campus or online in an asynchronous format. See here for additional information on the asynchronous program.

Plans for greater elective class choices are in the works for the near future

The Post Baccalaureate Certificate Program in Peace and Conflict Studies (12 semester credit hours)

The Certificate program prepares our students for the changing nature of professions, businesses, and community services. The Certificate program is beneficial for those who have already received a graduate degree, but would like to specialize in conflict resolution as a new area of focus.

It is also appropriate for those who possess an undergraduate degree and are seeking to obtain fundamental knowledge of the conflict resolution field of study or for professionals who have already earned a graduate degree in their professional field, but who would benefit from academic study of applications of conflict resolution in their current profession.

Any earned credits in this certificate program can be counted toward the MA in conflict resolution, if the student applies for and is accepted to the master’s program at a later date.

Certificate Requirements

  • Certificate students should work with their adviser to design their own program based on the following courses.

Required Courses (12 credits):

  • PCS 600, Fundamentals of Conflict Transformation and Peace Studies
  • PCS 605, Skills and Techniques of Conflict Transformation
  • PCS 607, Conflict Analysis: Theories of Change
  • PCS 608, Special Topics in Peace and Conflict Studies

Application Process for Admission to the Post Baccalaureate Certificate

Note to Applicants

Admission to the master’s or certificate program is rolling year round but if you wish to be considered for an assistantship, you must meet the March 1 deadline.

  • Complete an online application to the Graduate School.
  • For best consideration, please complete your application by July 1 for fall, October 1 for spring, and April 1 for summer
  • Submit the following to the Graduate School
    • Official transcripts for all undergraduate work (whether a degree was obtained or not).
    • Three (3) letters of recommendation.
  • GRE is not required but, recommended
  • Write a personal statement [250-300 words] regarding your goals and expectations of the program and include with your online application.
    If considered for admission, you may be called for a short personal interview, either in person, by telephone, or Skype.

Note to Visiting/Non-Degree-Seeking Students

If you would like to take a Peace and Conflict Studies class out of personal or professional interest before you commit to a degree, you can do so through the Graduate School’s VISIONS Program in the fall and spring. During the summer, you apply through the Division of Continual Learning.

Course Registration Process

  1. (New students) Activate your default computer accounts.
  2. Consult with your advisor and fill out an initial plan of study. This plan will be updated throughout your journey through the program.
  3. Pick your classes based on the Graduate School Bulletin and the current course offering.
  4. Read the instructions and register for your classes online through Schedule Hero.
  5. Pay for your classes with the Cashiers Office.
  6. Access your classes through Canvas.

Important Documents