BSc Econ Peace, Conflict & Security

How are conflicts resolved and how is peace brought about? What is ‘security'? Is it simply the absence of conflict, or does it require justice as well? These are some of the questions which form the heart of this, the newest degree scheme offered by the Department. This Peace, Conflict & Security degree scheme focuses on how conflicts are resolved and peace is brought about, but places it firmly within the context of the international political world and ideas of security. Issues of war and peace have traditionally been central to the study of International Relations, but over the last two decades there has been an explosion of interest in peace processes, peacekeeping and post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation. This period has seen transitions from conflict to peace in a wide range of international settings. This new Peace, Conflict & Security degree scheme explores all these and other issues and brings insight into the debates surrounding civil wars, changing patterns of aid, humanitarian intervention and post-conflict peacebuilding.

Degree Structure

Year One

During their first year (known as ‘Part One') students are introduced to the study of International Politics and to some of the major areas of the discipline.

Single Honours students are encouraged to take all six of these modules, but it is possible to take some modules from other Departments if you prefer.

Years Two and Three (Part 2)

During their either their second or third year students are required to take the core module for their degree scheme.

In their final year students are required to complete a 12,000-word dissertation on a topic related to their chosen degree scheme.

In addition to these core elements, Single Honours students take up to nine optional modules from the Department of International Politics over years two and three. The range of options on offer changes from year to year.