Kent State University

What you'll study

This master's emphasises both theory and practice. Core modules typically cover theories of conflict and peacebuilding, research methods in peace and conflict studies, negotiation and mediation skills, and ethics in conflict work. Elective topics often include restorative justice, human rights and transitional justice, religion and peace, gender and conflict, community organising, and peace education.

Students normally choose between thesis and non‑thesis tracks. The thesis track focuses on original research supervised by faculty and culminates in a written thesis. The non‑thesis track emphasises applied learning, usually completed through a practicum or internship placement combined with a capstone project.

• Typical core subjects: Theories of Conflict and Peace, Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods, Negotiation and Mediation, Ethics and Practice in Peacebuilding.
• Sample electives: Restorative Justice, Transitional Justice, Human Rights Advocacy, Community Conflict Transformation, Religion and Peace, Gender and Conflict, Peace Education.
• Applied elements: supervised practicum or internship with local, national or international organisations; simulation labs and skills workshops; opportunities for field research.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as political science, sociology, international relations, anthropology, psychology, education, or a related field. A competitive undergraduate GPA is normally required. Admissions typically consider the whole application package: academic transcripts, statement of purpose outlining your interests and professional goals in conflict resolution, and two academic or professional letters of recommendation.

Relevant professional experience in community work, mediation, advocacy or international development can strengthen an application. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence where English is not the first language. Additional materials such as a CV and writing sample may be requested.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers in the public, private and non‑profit sectors. Typical roles include mediator or conflict resolution practitioner, restorative justice coordinator, community relations specialist, programme officer for NGOs, human rights advocate, policy analyst, peace education specialist, and researcher or academic.

Alumni also find work with international organisations, government agencies, community mediation centres, restorative justice programmes in criminal justice systems, and with advocacy organisations focused on development, human rights and post‑conflict reconstruction. The programme’s practicum and internship components help build applied experience and professional networks.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers an interdisciplinary approach supported by faculty with expertise across peace studies, conflict resolution, sociology, political science and related fields. The university emphasises applied learning: students benefit from practicum placements, community partnerships and opportunities to participate in mediation clinics and simulation exercises.

Kent State’s location provides access to regional non‑profit, governmental and community organisations for internships and research collaborations. The programme typically features small cohort sizes that support close mentoring, opportunities for cross‑disciplinary coursework, and pathways to both academic research and professional practice in conflict transformation.