University of Tromsø

What you'll study

This two-year, research-oriented master's programme focuses on the causes, dynamics and transformation of conflicts at local, national and international levels. Core themes include theories of peace and conflict, conflict analysis and resolution, mediation and negotiation techniques, human security, transitional justice and the role of norms and institutions.

Students follow a combination of compulsory modules and electives, typically covering:

• Conflict theory and critical perspectives — classic and contemporary theoretical frameworks for understanding violence and peace.
• Conflict analysis and field methods — qualitative and quantitative research methods, participatory approaches and ethical fieldwork practices.
• Mediation, negotiation and peacebuilding practices — practical tools for dialogue, facilitation and designing intervention strategies.
• Human rights, transitional justice and governance — institutions and processes for post-conflict reconstruction and accountability.
• Gender, identity and Indigenous perspectives — the role of gender, ethnicity and Indigenous knowledge in conflict dynamics and peace processes; particular attention to Sámi and Arctic issues.
• Environmental and resource-related conflicts — conflicts over land, resources and development in fragile and Arctic contexts.
• Master’s thesis — an independent research project supervised by faculty, allowing students to specialise in a thematic or regional area of peace and conflict transformation.

The programme often includes guest lectures, workshops with practitioners, and opportunities for internships or fieldwork that link academic study with applied peacebuilding practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in social sciences, humanities, law, development studies, political science, anthropology or a related field. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate:

• A solid academic record at bachelor level.
• Evidence of prior study or experience related to conflict, peace, human rights or international affairs is an advantage.
• Proficiency in English demonstrated through recognised language tests or prior instruction in English if required by the university.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic interests and career objectives, and one or more academic or professional references.

Specific documentation requirements and any conditional criteria are set by the university admissions office; applicants with relevant professional experience may be considered even if their prior degree is from a neighbouring discipline.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of careers in international and domestic contexts. Typical pathways include:

• Positions with international organisations, NGOs and humanitarian agencies working on peacebuilding, conflict prevention, mediation and post-conflict reconstruction.
• Roles in national and local government, diplomacy and policy units that address security, reconciliation and community resilience.
• Consultancy and advisory work for development projects, natural resource management and corporate social responsibility in conflict-affected areas.
• Research and teaching positions in academia, think tanks and research institutes focusing on peace and conflict studies.
• Practitioner roles in restorative justice, youth engagement, community dialogue and reconciliation programmes.

The programme’s combination of theoretical grounding and practical skills is designed to prepare graduates for both practitioner and research-oriented careers.

Why study at University of Tromsø

The University of Tromsø (UiT) is located in the Arctic region, offering a distinctive vantage point for studying conflicts linked to Indigenous rights, resource management and climate-driven change. The university emphasises interdisciplinary approaches and benefits from faculty expertise in peace studies, political science, anthropology and Indigenous studies.

Students at UiT gain exposure to regional case studies and Indigenous perspectives, small cohort teaching, and opportunities for fieldwork across Northern Norway and circumpolar contexts. The learning environment combines academic rigour with practical links to civil society actors and local communities, making it well suited for students interested in both applied peace practice and academic research.