The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Peace and Conflict Studies. Students may also minor or double-major, if appropriate. This program provides students with knowledge of the key issues, research, and theories in the important and emerging field of Peace and Conflict Studies.
Students are challenged to answer the following key content questions:
- How do factors such as poverty, lack of education and social inequity lead to conflict, both internationally and domestically?
- What are the causes and conditions which generate and sustain conflict and violence?
- What are the principles and methods for the resolution of conflict and violence?
- What are the norms, practices and institutions for conflict transformation and building peace?
There are many approaches to understanding these core questions. Therefore, the undergraduate curriculum is inter-disciplinary, combining courses from Cultural Studies, Criminal Justice, History, Political Science, and Sociology, among other disciplines. Students take a seminar that helps them integrate the learning from their electives to address the central questions of the field.
Undergraduate students may study abroad at partner universities to gain a global perspective. Students can also engage in field work or internships for academic credit.
For information on applying to UMass Lowell, please visit the Prospective Undergraduate Students page.
Declaration of Major
Current UMass Lowell students: To declare a major in Peace and Conflict Studies, please e-mail David Turcotte, call 978-934-4682, or Jason Carter, 978-934-6785.