Peace and Conflict Studies MA

" Peace and Conflict Studies MA OVERVIEW

This programme provides students with in-depth knowledge and understanding of peace and conflict theories, issues and practices, and the ability to analyse the complex interconnectivity of various peacebuilding challenges.

Qualifications available:

• Postgraduate Certificate in Peace and Conflict Studies (8 months by blended/distance-learning).
• Postgraduate Diploma in Peace and Conflict Studies (16 months by blended/distance-learning).
• MA in Peace and Conflict Studies (15 months ‘fast-track’ or 24 months by blended/distance-learning).

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

The MA Peace and Conflict Studies is a high-quality postgraduate qualification, shaped by research-active staff and informed by a concern for the real world, providing an opportunity to study in a highly interactive and supportive learning environment. You will develop a reflective learning skill for both intellectual enquiry and professional development.

The MA is open to anyone with the requisite qualifications and is targeted at preparing people to enter into a career in fields relating to Peace and Conflict Studies (e.g. humanitarian action, international development, international relations, human rights and diplomacy) or to enhance the career opportunities of those already working within such fields.

This programme can also be studied at postgraduate certificate and postgraduate diploma level, and is offered via blended learning or distance learning.

Our centre is located in Coventry, the symbol of peace and reconciliation, and the course embraces this unique historical heritage of peace and reconciliation at heart. You will not only learn about the value of peace and conflict studies but will also be inspired by the city’s reputation and legacy.

We will provide you:

• An opportunity to achieve a MA via distance learning within 15 months;
• Access to Coventry University’s e-learning resources;
• The possibility to enhance your CV;
• Recognition of your professional experience and prior learning, which enables you to obtain academic credits based on your experience and;
• Access to a professional network of individuals working in various roles related to Peace and Conflict all over the world, with an opportunity to benefit from their perspectives and experiences.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

The three different qualifications on offer are sequential, and can therefore lead into one another, following the successful completion of the earlier portion.

At the Postgraduate Certificate stage, you will study three core modules:

• Peace, Conflict and Security in the 21st Century
• Philosophies of Non-Violence and Reconciliation
• Peacebuilding: Theories into Practice

At the Postgraduate Diploma stage, you will be required to complete the core module, Project Management in Practice, as well as two elective modules from the following list:

• Environment, Peace and Conflict
• Religion, Peace and Conflict
• Gender, Peace and Conflict
• Migration, Displacement and Belonging
• The Privatisation of International Security
• Comparative Peace Processes

At the MA stage, you will undertake a dissertation in an area of study, which you would like to explore in more depth, with support from a supervisor.

At each stage of the programme you will have the opportunity to attend a short, residential workshop (up to 5 days) to cover the core learning for one module. The all-inclusive* workshops are covered in the course fees and we strongly encourage attendance to supplement and condense your learning, to meet your cohort and teachers, and to build your network. (*Please note: Accommodation is provided but you will need to organise and finance your travel including any visa costs. Residential workshops may be held in the UK in Coventry or London, or internationally depending on where students are based. Accommodation will be allocated in University Halls or the Private Sector on a first come first serve basis, T&C’s will apply).

In addition to the residential workshops, the programme is delivered through online module materials, small group tutoring and independent study, allowing you to fit your studies around other commitments. Students unable to attend the workshops will receive additional contact time and can study independently using online materials. A wide variety of resources is made available via the online study platform, including: lecture notes, journal articles, video lectures, news and discussion forums, as well as the research produced by members of teaching staff.

Starting in September each year the Postgraduate Certificate is designed to be studied over approximately 8 months either by blended learning or distance learning. The MA is designed to be studied over approximately 24 months either by blended learning or distance learning.

We also offer a 15-month ‘fast-track’ route to the MA to those applicants who can sufficiently evidence prior (experiential) learning (APEL). Please refer to the admissions criteria below and contact the Postgraduate Programme Manager for further information.

HOW WILL THIS COURSE BE TAUGHT?

You will be well supported throughout your studies with a range of services and guidance to help you get the most out of your programme.

Students are provided with a range of pre-enrolment materials to better prepare them for their studies. Online modules are provided through the virtual learning environment (Moodle) to facilitate communications between staff and students, and between students. You will have access to Coventry University’s library, including its digital resources and library support for distance learners.

Extensive coursework feedback and support from the programme team will be provided, and every student is allocated a personal tutor from the moment of enrolment offering pastoral and academic skills support. For those writing a dissertation, a supervisor will be allocated.

You will be also be able to access a portfolio of non-credit bearing academic skills modules and support to develop your research and writing skills, as well as Coventry University’s Careers and Employability Service for support with developing your career following your studies.

"