MA in International Peace and Conflict Resolution

Arcadia’s International Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) Master of Arts program offers innovative, cohort-based curriculum and experiential learning opportunities. Establish your expertise as a conflict resolution practitioner and build critical, professional networks and collaborative spaces around the world.

Powered by a Passion for Peace

Through foundational courses, embedded international fieldwork, hands-on internships, and the IPCR Master Capstone class, Arcadia's IPCR program will fuel your passions, challenge you academically, and encourage you to connect theory with real-world applications as you prepare to make a positive difference in the world.

Program at a Glance

• Four-semester, full-time, cohort-based program; part-time option available.
• Small class sizes and experienced faculty.
• International fieldwork in Cyprus and Paris embedded in the program.
• Certificates in Mediation and Diplomatic Tradecraft offered as part of the degree.

About the Master of Arts in International Peace and Conflict Resolution Program

Students in the graduate program in International Peace and Conflict Resolution pursue a Master’s degree that consists of four terms of intensive academic training at our Glenside campus including an internship, and capstone.

Internships are directly related to the academic and professional interests of the student. Internships allow students to develop critical professional skills and contacts and enable students to successfully transition to the professional world upon graduation. Internships may be pursued overseas or nationally during the summer before the third term or locally in the final year.

In the final year, students complete a capstone project that brings together their academic interests, internship, and professional development goals.

The IPCR program is structured to develop competencies in:

• Theories and dynamics of conflict, conflict resolution, post-conflict reconstruction and development, international law and organizations;
• Tools and techniques of conflict management, conflict resolution and conflict transformation;
• Conflict analysis, which involves developing an understanding of how states and other third parties impact conflict;
• The methods used to diffuse conflict on a variety of levels; interpersonal, groups, and institutions. Interdisciplinary perspectives on the field of peace and conflict resolution;
• Critical thinking skills and research methods, which span the spectrum of qualitative and quantitative methods;
• Cultural sensitivity and inter-cultural understandings through international and field experiences;
• Oral presentation and communication skills.

In the first term of study, students complete required courses in Introduction to Peace and Conflict Resolution and an International Field Study to Cyprus and choose two electives.

In the second term, students take four courses (2 required and 2 elective). Students also begin researching and applying for internship opportunities that will further their academic and career interests. The IPCR Associate Director and Director help guide students in this process to maximize options.

The final term is focused on the internship, capstone project, and course, as well as professional development activities intended to aid students in career placement.

Arcadia University is a top-ranked university in Greater Philadelphia, PA offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. We believe education should be foundational and comprehensive, emphasizing hands-on learning and professional development alongside deep personal growth.

Arcadia University’s pioneering, global, integrated, liberal arts, and professional learning experience cultivates leaders who are intellectually fearless and uniquely prepared for life and work. Our highly regarded, values-based learning community reflects the world in which we want to live.