MSc Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding
- MSc
Overview
The MSc in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding is an innovative, interdisciplinary cutting-edge programme designed to provide students with crucial opportunities to explore the political, social, economic, legal, and psychological dimensions shaping the transformation of different forms of violent conflict. The programme arrives at a critical juncture, when global manifestations of conflict are both escalating and becoming more diverse, at the same time as the current conflict transformation and peacebuilding paradigm is under review. As it increasingly becomes evident that dominant forms of conflict resolution are inappropriate for resolving new and emerging forms of conflict, evolving drivers and manifestations of violent conflict in our changing world require new forms of expertise and innovative thinking and practice in conflict transformation. We need a better understanding of the varied impacts of conflict, the application of new technologies for conflict resolution, and how to advance more peaceful and just transitions.
Drawing on insights from politics, international relations, sociology and law to understand framings of violent and other forms of conflict and responses to them, this interdisciplinary programme will equip students with the knowledge, expertise and skills to face the challenges of conflict and peacebuilding in the 21st century. While students will be made familiar with current arguments, theories and methodologies pertaining to conflict resolution and peacebuilding, the programme will offer critical and innovative perspectives on, and interdisciplinary methods to analyse the nature of violent conflict, the paths to its resolution/transformation, and the challenges and opportunities that we face today. Students will engage with diverse themes, such as conflict, security and development; conflict transformation in practice; conflict analysis and peacebuilding approaches; and transitional justice in the aftermath of conflict.
The programme will equip graduates for leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, at national and international levels, addressing the complex political, social, economic, legal and psychological factors driving emergent change. Essential practical skills will be incorporated throughout the programme to provide graduates with the necessary competencies to become pathfinders in navigating the complex challenges posed by conflict at the local and international level. The programme includes simulation exercises, guest public lectures by leading policymakers and practitioners, and innovative assessments. The programme will be taught by globally recognised experts in the field.
Programme structure
You will take a combination of mandatory and optional taught units within the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies. Each unit is delivered over the course of 12 weeks and assessed by an analytical and research-based essay (or equivalent other work). The taught section of the programme is followed by a dissertation unit.
Entry requirements
You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in any discipline.
If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.
We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree.
We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement. If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing details of your relevant qualifications:
- evidence of relevant work experience (minimum 12 months paid experience in relevant field such as, but not limited to: Law, Human Rights, Public Affairs, Political Affairs, Psychology, Journalism.
- a postgraduate qualification.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
Go to admissions statementIf English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level C.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £18,700 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £28,500 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
Bristol graduates are in high demand and have an excellent record of employment following graduation. Students of our MSc programmes go on to pursue varied and interesting careers.
Many sectors – such as the civil service, NGOs and charities – require an MSc and some volunteering or internship experience. Graduates from our programmes have gone on to work for Refugee UK, Shelter, Barnardo's, Amnesty International, government departments and the European Parliament, among others. Find out more from the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies careers webpages.
Contact us
- Contact
- Enquiries Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 126 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk