MA in Versöhnung

• Develop a comprehensive and critical understanding of a broad range of contemporary debates relevant to the study of peacebuilding and reconciliation
  • Acquire advanced abilities in critically evaluating peacebuilding and reconciliation theories and concepts and applying them to practice worldwide.
  • Participate in practical peacebuilding projects throughout the course
  • Enjoy a supportive learning environment and vibrant virtual community
  • Benefit from informed teaching staff who are all international experts within their field

The Reconciliation programmes at Winchester draw on insights from a range of academic disciplines, case studies, and cultural and faith traditions from around the world. They give you a multidisciplinary introduction to the study and practice of reconciliation and peacebuilding, with the work and experience of St Ethelburga’s Centre for Reconciliation and Peace informing their design.

Drawing on insights from subject areas including psychology, religious studies and the arts, you examine key ideas and theoretical frameworks in the study of reconciliation in a wide variety of different contexts. We discuss and reflect on the pivotal relationship between theory and practice and consider a variety of factors which impact the effectiveness of peacebuilding and reconciliation activities. You also have the opportunity to become involved with peacebuilding projects and organisations throughout the duration of the programme.

The supportive learning environment stems from the teaching staff who are all fully committed to providing the best learning opportunities for all students. We have a range of ways we support the learning experience of our students including one-to-one online tuition, tutorial groups and inclusive teaching practices.

We have a vibrant virtual community that includes students from all over the world. We help our students get to know each other through relationship-building exercises at the beginning of the course as well as regular pair and group work and tutorial group meetings throughout the year.

Study core modules including Foundation of Reconciliation and Peacebuilding, Theories and Dynamics of Reconciliation, and Practical Bridge Building. Supplement these with options including Multi-faith Cooperation on Peacebuilding, Dialogue and Disagreement, and The Relationship between Theory and Practice. You also complete a final assessment, for which you have the option of writing a dissertation of 15,000 to 20,000 words; undertaking a consultancy placement with an organisation working in the field; or participating in and reflecting on a practical peacebuilding project.

The independent study allows our students to tailor their final project to their current jobs and future career choices. The dissertation demonstrates your research and critical reading, writing and thinking skills preparing you for a career in academia whereas the project and consultancy options help you connect with future employers and develop practical skills in areas such as project management, networking and report writing. For those already in a career, the independent study offers opportunities to explore themes related to your work and potentially start new projects with your organisations and other stakeholders.

The University of Winchester empowers students to reach their full potential and make a difference in the world. Set in Winchester, a beautiful, quintessential English city with a rich heritage and vibrant contemporary culture, the university’s friendly and compact campuses give students the benefit of city and campus living. We are well situated with excellent transport links allowing you to reach London or the coast in an hour, and Southampton Airport is just a 10-minute train journey away.

The university offers a selection of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees that are taught across our five faculties:

• Faculty of Business and Digital Technologies: A modern, forward-thinking faculty offering a range of disciples including Accounting, Economics, Business Management, Computer Science and Marketing.
• Faculty of Education and the Arts: Has a long and established history of providing high-quality degrees, and is home to the Institute of Education, Department of Education and Childhood Studies, Department of Performing Arts, and School of Media and Film.
• Faculty of Health and Wellbeing: Outstanding degrees that are committed to progressing health and well-being for all life. The faculty includes Nursing, Physiotherapy, Social Work, Animal Welfare and Sports degrees.
• Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences: Passionate about what makes us human, we offer research-led teaching and outstanding support in Anthropology; Archaeology; History; Psychology; Social Sciences including Politics and Geography; Philosophy; English and Creative Writing.
• Faculty of Law, Crime and Justice: Bringing together the department of Law and the department of Policing, Criminology and Forensics, the faculty uses an interdisciplinary approach to offer a dynamic range of degrees that offer the use of specialist facilities.