The Advanced Practice in Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution program at the University of Bradford is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and practical experience to effectively engage in peacebuilding initiatives and conflict resolution processes in diverse contexts worldwide. This innovative postgraduate course is tailored for professionals and practitioners working in international development, humanitarian aid, diplomatic services, NGOs, and related sectors who seek to deepen their understanding and enhance their capabilities in managing complex conflicts and fostering sustainable peace.

Throughout this program, students will explore contemporary theories and approaches to peacebuilding, including conflict analysis, negotiation, mediation, and post-conflict reconstruction. The curriculum integrates academic frameworks with real-world applications, allowing participants to acquire practical skills through case studies, simulations, and project work. In addition, the program emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness, ethical considerations, and the role of local communities in peacebuilding efforts to ensure context-sensitive interventions.

The program covers a broad range of topics such as peace processes, conflict prevention, transitional justice, gender and conflict, security sector reform, and peacekeeping operations. Students will also examine the impact of political, social, and economic factors on conflict dynamics and learn methods for designing effective peacebuilding strategies. The interdisciplinary approach adopted by the University of Bradford encourages critical thinking and innovative problem-solving, preparing graduates to lead and support peace initiatives in complex environments.

Delivered through a flexible learning structure, including face-to-face seminars and online modules, the program is accessible to international students and working professionals alike. Students will benefit from the expertise of faculty members who are renowned scholars and practitioners in the fields of peace studies, conflict resolution, and international development. Upon successful completion, graduates will be well-positioned for careers in international organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, and academic institutions, contributing to peacebuilding efforts at local, national, and global levels.

The University of Bradford’s commitment to practical learning, combined with its strong network of partners in conflict-affected regions, ensures that students gain relevant, hands-on experience that can be directly applied in their professional roles. Overall, this program aims to develop transformational leaders capable of making a meaningful difference in the pursuit of sustainable peace and conflict resolution worldwide.

Please note that for 2019 entry, the module information is subject to change.

Modules

Core

Applied Conflict Research (PES7036-B)

Designing and Assessing Conflict Intervention Process (PES7039-B)

Skills for Constructive Conflict Engagement (PES7049-B)

Dissertation (PES7040-E)

Option

African Politics and Security Dynamics (PES7035-B)

Studying Peace in a Changing World (PES7051-B)

Natural Resource Governance (PES7045-B)

Movements for Social and Ecological Justice (PES7044-B)

Transnational Challenges: Problems and Responses (PES7055-B)

Creative Conflict Transformation (PES7038-B)

Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding (PES7046-B)

Gender, Conflict and Development (PES7041-B)

Africa Study Visit (PES7034-B)

Terrorism and Political Violence (PES7053-B)

Sustainable Cities (PES7052-B)

Middle East Politics and Security Dynamics (PES7043-B)

Applicants should have an undergraduate qualification at 2:2 or above (or equivalent).

Relevant professional or voluntary experience would be desirable.

English language requirements:

• IELTS 6.0.
• If you do not meet the IELTS requirement, you can take a University of Bradford pre-sessional English course. See the Language Centre for more details »

Funding for the Advanced Practice in Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution program at the University of Bradford is accessible through multiple channels, designed to support both domestic and international students. Prospective students are encouraged to explore university scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options, which may significantly offset tuition costs and living expenses. The University of Bradford offers a range of scholarships specifically targeted at postgraduate students, including the Vice-Chancellor's Academic Excellence Scholarships, which are awarded based on academic merit, and Merit-based International Scholarships aimed at attracting outstanding candidates from abroad. Additionally, students are advised to seek external funding sources such as government grants, international agency sponsorships, and charity programs dedicated to supporting higher education in conflict resolution and peacebuilding fields. The university also provides detailed guidance and support services to assist applicants in identifying suitable funding opportunities and preparing robust scholarship applications. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality, residence status, and specific program components; therefore, prospective students should consult the university's official fee schedule for the most current information. International students may have access to specific scholarships catering to their demographic, along with potential eligibility for loans or sponsorship from their home governments or organizations involved in peacebuilding activities. For students from the United Kingdom, student loans and grants are available through the Student Loans Company, subject to eligibility criteria. The university also recommends exploring external funding bodies including the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) grants and European Union funding programs, especially for research components integrated within the program. To facilitate comprehensive financial planning, applicants are advised to contact the university's financial aid office early in the application process and to review the specific eligibility criteria for each funding opportunity. Overall, financing studies at the University of Bradford requires proactive engagement with both institutional and external funding avenues to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder prospective students from accessing advanced education in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

Politics at Bradford is ranked 45th in the UK in The Complete University Guide University Subject Tables 2019 for its undergraduate courses. These rankings also place Bradford in the top 20 in the UK for graduate prospects.

Our postgraduate politics courses were ranked 2nd in the UK for employability in the 2018 Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES).