Master of Arts Program in Conflict Resolution

Core Required Conflict Resolution Courses

1. Students will gain an understanding of and proficiency in major theories of conflict and its resolution in the context of globalization. They will be able learn how to critically assess the role of material factors, irrationality, identity, and subjective justice. Students will also learn to differentiate between structural and relational sources of conflict and effectively discuss the dynamics of conflict settings and underlying theories of change regarding potential interventions. They will understand the relationship of theory to practice and vice-versa.

2. Students will develop applied skills in conflict analysis, negotiation, communication, cross-cultural interactions, and will strengthen their ability to work effectively with groups in diverse contexts. They will also learn key basic skills in mediation, dialogue, facilitation, and other core processes in the field.

3. Students will acquire an understanding of the conflict resolution field, its history, institutions (including donors, policy institutions, and implementers), and current ethical and practical debates.

4. Students will learn how to conduct a conflict analysis in community settings and to apply theory to practice. They will cultivate an understanding of third party roles, the complexity of intervening in conflict settings, and core ethics, such as do no harm and cultural sensitivity.

5. Students will explore how to integrate conflict resolution skills and principles across diverse sectors. They will also gain the ability to discuss the challenges and opportunities in integrative peacebuilding.

6. Students will hone their reading, writing, research, and oral communication skills. They will begin to think holistically about conflicts and know how to gather data from primary and secondary sources.

7. Students will be introduced to the basic aspects of conflict related research such as conflict assessments, community mapping, exploring the roles and needs of multiple parties, and examining potential intervention roles.

Directed and General Electives and Other Coursework

1. Students will develop a second area of focus, geographic and/or sectoral in nature, and further develop their conflict resolution expertise. With faculty guidance, students will develop additional knowledge and skills rooted in their concentration.

2. Students will gain proficiency in the main policy and ethical debates in the conflict resolution field.

3. Students will develop proficiency in a second language that will aid them in their future career development.

4. Students will develop the basic skills necessary to undertake evaluations of conflict resolution projects and programs.

Other Forms of Specialized Graduate Training Available Through the Georgetown MA Program in Conflict Resolution

1. Students will have the opportunity to gain additional concrete practical skills needed for careers in the field through supplementary professional development workshops offered by the Program.

2. Students will have the opportunity to participate in local and international field research and internships where appropriate. The CR Program seeks to maximize partnerships with NGOs, policy organizations, and other institutions in the field to help facilitate student placements. The optional field experience component provides students with direct experience researching and working on conflicts.

3. Students are encouraged to attend relevant policy meetings, conferences, and other activities of interest. At their own initiative (and with program support) students are encouraged present their research in relevant forums and to seek opportunities for publishing.

4. Students will be encouraged to pursue additional professional (non-credit) skills training opportunities to advance their conflict resolution and project management skills.

5. Students will have the opportunity to participate in conflict resolution research and practice activities organized by the Program.

6. Students will prepare for their comprehensive oral exam. For the exam, students will demonstrate an understanding of conflict resolution theory and practice, be able to explore challenges, gaps and critiques of the field, connect theory and practice, and show expertise in a particular sectoral or geographic area.