Indigenous Studies

From 2014, the National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies will offer a one year coursework Master of Peace and Conflict Studies.

The field of Peace and Conflict Studies is primarily concerned with an analysis of the origins and nature of violent conflict within and between societies. The MPCS is an inter-disciplinary programme providing students with an advanced qualification in peace and conflict studies, development and peacebuilding. It will position graduates for a wide range of career options in the public and private sectors. Students must complete two core papers in Peace and Conflict Studies, a 60-point research dissertation and one or two elective papers from within the Centre or from a list of approved courses in other Departments.

The Global Future Charitable Trust has provided competitive funding to assist MPCS students from New Zealand who wish to travel overseas to complete their practicum. A maximum of $2000 per student is available upon application.

Overview

The Master of Peace and Conflict Studies is an inter-disciplinary programme providing students with an advanced qualification in peace and conflict studies, development and peacebuilding. Drawing upon national and international expertise in the field, this programme will position graduates for a wide range of career options in the public and private sectors as academic researchers and as practitioners and policy makers in fields such as conflict analysis and resolution, peace-building, and post-conflict transformation.

This programme (which replaces the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (PGDipArts) in Peace and Conflict Studies) combines theory and practice with a solid research component and is regionally focused on Asia and the Pacific

The programme of study shall consist of two core papers and two elective papers, worth 120 points, together with a 60 point research dissertation, or 60 point practicum and research project:

• PEAC 501 Theories of Peace and Conflict
• PEAC 502 Conflict Analysis and Conflict Resolution Theory
• PEAC 590 Research Dissertation or PEAC 595 Practicum and Research Report

and two of

• PEAC 503 Conflict Resolution Practice
• PEAC 504 Development and Peace-building
• PEAC 505 Peace Education
• PEAC 560 Special Topic
• PEAC 507 Critical Terrorism Studies

The MPCS is aimed at candidates who have completed a degree with at least a B+ average (or equivalent) over the final year. Relevant practical experience may be considered where this minimum is not met. Candidates may also apply if they have alternative qualifications or experience, subject to approval by the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Humanities).

University of Otago Coursework Master's Scholarship

The University of Otago Coursework Master's Scholarship provides funding to support course work-based Master's students studying at the University of Otago.

Information

Applicants must be:

- obtaining their first Otago Coursework Master's qualification

- domestic students or international students

- undertaking a papers based thesis*

* Coursework Master’s Scholarships are not available for the papers year of a two-year research Master’s degree.

Selection is based predominantly on academic merit and the applicant’s potential for research.