Postgraduate Diploma/Masters of Arts in Peace and Conflict StudiesThe PgDip/MA in Peace and Conflict Studies programme offers in-depth knowledge and understanding of the origins, dynamics and resolution of destructive conflicts, with special reference to divided societies. It involves an advanced critical understanding of approaches and concepts in the field of peace and conflict studies.

This programme is delivered by the internationally respected International Conflict Research Institute (INCORE). Based on the Magee campus in the city of Derry/Londonderry on the shores of Lough Foyle, the programme attracts students from a number of countries and a wide variety of academic backgrounds.

Enrolled students have access to leading academics and practitioners working to address the causes and consequences of conflict both locally and internationally. Nobel Laureate, Professor John Hume is based at the University of Ulster. Professor Hume’s tenure as Tip O’Neill Chair of Peace Studies attracted prominent global policymakers to the campus including, among many others, President Bill Clinton and former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.

Course Structure All students enter the Postgraduate Diploma stage of the programme, which consists of the four taught modules listed below. Upon successful completion of the Postgraduate Diploma, students are entitled to enter the MA stage, which is normally completed in three to six months and which consists of a 12-15,000 word dissertation. The formal teaching is supplemented by an informal programme of lectures, seminars and study visits, and students have access to events organised by INCORE.

The one year programme for full time students is:

• Semester One: Peace and Conflict Research / The Northern Ireland Conflict

• Semester Two: Peacebuilding in Divided Societies / Divided Societies in a Modern World

• Semester Three/Four: MA Dissertation

The two year programme for part-time students is:

• Semester One: Peace and Conflict Research

• Semester Two: Peacebuilding in Divided Societies

• Semester Three: Summer break

• Semester Four: The Northern Ireland Conflict

• Semester Five: Divided Societies in a Modern World

• Semester Six/Seven: MA Dissertation

Module Content

•Peace and Conflict Research Advanced introduction to peace and conflict research examining topics such as definitions of peace and violence, peace traditions, nonviolent action and conflict resolution/transformation strategies.

•The Northern Ireland Conflict Places the Northern Ireland conflict in comparative context and examines lessons from the process.

•Peacebuilding in Divided Societies Examines the theory and practice of peacebuilding in an international context.

•Divided Societies in the Modern World Promotes understanding of the causes and consequences of ethnic conflict drawing on case studies from around the world.

About INCOREEstablished in 1993, INCORE (International Conflict Research Institute), based at the University of Ulster, is an associate site of the United Nations University. Combining research, education and comparative analysis, INCORE addresses the causes and consequences of conflict in Northern Ireland and internationally and promotes conflict management and peacebuilding strategies. It aims to influence policymakers and practitioners involved in peace, conflict and reconciliation issues while enhancing the nature of international conflict research. INCORE offers a unique blend of theoretical expertise and practical experience in building peace. INCORE works in partnership with a variety of institutions and organisations – locally and internationally. INCORE is located within the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Ulster and coordinates the varied peace and conflict-related activity across the University.

How to Apply For additional information on the PgDip/MA in Peace and Conflict Studies and to apply on-line for the 2011/2012 intake, starting in September 2011, see http://prospectus.ulster.ac.uk/course/?id=9135. Applications should be received before the last Friday in June, although consideration may be given to applications received after this date. For more information and to answer any queries contact the Course Director, Dr. Stephen Ryan (s.ryan@ulster.ac.uk) or telephone on +44 (0)28 7167 5246.

www.ulster.ac.uk/incore www.facebook.com/INCOREinfo Twitter @INCOREinfo

Current Faculty

Professor Brandon Hamber: Director of INCORE.

Dr. Stephen Ryan: Senior Lecturer, INCORE.

Professor Gillian Robinson: Director of ARK, INCORE.

Ms. Grainne Kelly: Policy/Practice Coordinator, INCORE.

Dr. Kenneth Bush: Research Coordinator, INCORE.

Professor Emeritus Paul Arthur: Honorary Professor, INCORE.

Background and Achievements The MA in Peace and Conflict Studies started in 1987. The initial target cohort was opinion makers in Northern Ireland but over time substantial overseas interest developed. Initially this came from the US, Japan and Scandinavia. Since then, participants have enrolled from Canada, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Indonesia, Kenya, Rwanda and Nigeria, among others. Information for international applicants can be found at: http://international.ulster.ac.uk/

The diversity of intake has been matched by quality: Rotary, Chevening (British Council) and Mitchell Scholars have all graduated from the MA in Peace and Conflict Studies in recent years. Many graduates are now involved in peacebuilding activity in conflict regions. Others have completed PhDs and a number have entered academic life.

Note: This leaflet is prepared in advance of the academic year to which it relates. The University of Ulster offers the information contained in it as a guide only. While we make every effort to check the accuracy of the factual content at the time of drafting, some changes will inevitably have occurred in the interval between publication and commencement of the relevant academic year. We reserve the right to make changes to programmes when such action is reasonably considered to be necessary in the context of our wider purposes.