Master of Arts Program in Conflict Resolution

 The Conflict Resolution course of study draws on a rich body of offerings from across the Georgetown University campus. All students will complete four core courses in Conflict Resolution, including courses that are both theory- and practice-oriented. In addition to the core, students may choose from a wide range of elective courses, depending on the student's individual interests.

Many courses in the Government Department focus on the political aspects of the field. But beyond these, students may be interested in, for example, inter-religious dialogue from a theological perspective, the philosophical origins of violence, the psychological aspects of intergroup relations, or the legalistic methods of Alternative Dispute Resolution. Therefore, courses in such departments as Theology, Philosophy, Psychology, and the Law School are included as integral parts of the program.

Students may select directed elective courses relating to the origins, analysis, mediation, negotiation and resolution of conflict, as well as to post-conflict peacekeeping and development. 

 Students must complete

• 4 core courses;
• 4 directed electives;
• 5 general electives; and
• 1 course focusing on a particular region.

Students may opt to write a thesis in lieu of one three-credit general elective.*  Most students also take advantage of the many work-related opportunities in Washington, DC, and take an internship in lieu of one three-credit general elective. 

The total number of courses is 14 (40.75 credits).  Courses are generally completed in two years.  Before graduating students must pass a Master's comprehensive examination and a written foreign language proficiency examination.

Course offerings vary slightly each year.  Below you'll find a broad sampling of courses of interest that have been offered in the past, in addition to descriptions for each of the four core courses.  For a current course list please refer to the University Registrar's page.

* Beginning with the 2012-2013 academic year, students will be charged for thesis credit. This charge will equate to the fees associated with a standard three-credit course.