Peace and Conflict Studies analyses violent conflict
The field of Peace and Conflict Studies addresses some of the most enduring and intractable problems confronting humanity. It is primarily concerned with an analysis of the origins and nature of violent conflict within and between societies.
Scholars within this area are interested in understanding how to generate both negative peace (an absence of violence and war) and positive peace (social institutions that remove sources of injustice, violence and socio-political exclusion).
Commitment to a bicultural research environment
The National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Otago embraces the Maori Strategic Framework's (2020) goal to deepen the University’s commitment to achieving participation and success for Indigenous students in tertiary education.
Our post-graduate centre is staffed by academic faculty from a variety of social science disciplines and as we work and teach in a bicultural setting (including Indigenous and Non-Indigenous cultural standpoints) we embrace a bicultural research environment. In practical terms this means we are open and responsive to both Western Canon Epistemologies and Indigenous Methodologies (Tuhiwai Smith 2012) and students who engage with research and knowledge generation in our centre are able to approach inquiry from either or both positions where appropriate.
Graduates can study Peace and Conflict Studies
Typically, NCPACS students will possess undergraduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines, such as law, education, psychology and politics.
We do not have an undergraduate programme.
Master of Peace and Conflict Studies (MPCS)
The National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies now offers a one year coursework Master of Peace and Conflict Studies. This qualification can be completed in one year of full time study or part time over a longer period. Students are required to complete four papers, two of which are compulsory, and either a dissertation or a practicum placement and report.
In 2021, the MPCS can be studied via distance as an option.
Apply for the Master of Peace and Conflict Studies via the qualification page
Find out more about our Masters programmes
For enquiries, please email peaceandconflict@otago.ac.nz
Study towards a Master of Peace and Conflict Studies, Master of Arts or PhD
- Master of Peace and Conflict Studies (Course work Masters)
- Master of Arts in Peace and Conflict Studies (Research Masters)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Peace and Conflict Studies
