Peace and Conflict Studies - MSc

This internationally renowned programme is offered by leading academics from the International Conflict Research Institute (INCORE) at Ulster University. The MSc in Peace and Conflict Studies offers the student a unique opportunity to undertake an interdisciplinary graduate programme characterised by academic excellence within the context of a vibrant and culturally rich society emerging from conflict.

This programme attracts students from a number of countries and a wide variety of academic backgrounds. This programme has a strong focus on critically assessing the causes of consequences of conflict and examining the theories and practices of post-violence peacebuilding, which is appropriate given that it is rooted in a society emerging from decades of protracted violence.

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

A second class Honours degree or above or equivalent recognised qualification in Social Sciences, Humanities, Law or a cognate discipline. Allowance may be made for special qualifications, experience and background, and students with other academic backgrounds will be considered, where applicants can demonstrate their ability to undertake the programme through the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL) or accreditation of prior learning (APL).

English language requirements for international applicantsThe minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Students of an interdisciplinary programme such as the MSc in Peace and Conflict Studies are well placed to follow a number of distinct career opportunities, based on their specific interests and core strengths. The past decades have seen tremendous changes in the global context. As a result, the demand for well-trained individuals to work on the myriad of peace and conflict issues continues to rise. The knowledge and capacities developed by peace and conflict studies students are transferrable across sectors and regions, making their skill set mobile and flexible within a globalised job market.

Graduates of the programme will have key research and practice skills which will equip them to pursue careers in a wide range of fields, including conflict resolution, human rights, community and economic development, social justice, psychosocial interventions, education, law and politics, among others. Development and humanitarian organisations, in particular, are increasingly recognising the value of employing staff with a strong understanding and knowledge of conflict resolution and peacebuilding issues, particularly given the prevalence of tensions and conflict in developing countries. The knowledge and skills gained during the programme also has applicability and desirability for employers within the public and private sector, particularly in the areas of negotiation, mediation and conflict resolution.