Graduate program

Conflict Resolution M.A./M.S.

Students in this program will study the theoretical, conceptual, and methodological dimensions of conflict resolution.  In order to fulfill the MA/MS requirements, each student will design and complete a thesis or project reflective of their interests in the field.

Required Courses

CR 512Foundations of Conflict Resolution

4

CR 513Advanced Values and Ethics in Conflict Resolution

4

CR 518Psychology of Peace and Conflict

4

CR 526Advanced Intercultural Conflict Resolution

4

CR 508Workshop

4

CR 511Research Methods in Conflict Resolution

4

CR 509Practicum

6

CR 522Thesis and Project Preparation Seminar

4

Electives

12 credits of 500-level Conflict Resolution courses.

Project Option

In the project option, the MA/MS culminates in project that follows from a program planned in consultation with the student’s adviser. Guidelines for the project proposal are available from the program office. Once approved by the adviser and committee, a signed copy of the proposal is filed with the program office.  Projects typically involve a synthesis of learning and practice in service to a community need for a conflict resolution application.  Upon completion of the project and write up, the student will present it in an oral examination before a committee comprising the project adviser, a second reader from among program or PSU faculty and, optionally, a third reader. Projects in their final form are filed in the program office.

Students must complete 8 credits of CR 506 for the project option.

Thesis Option

In the thesis option, the MA/MS culminates in the preparation and defense of a thesis based upon original research that follows from a program planned in consultation with the student’s adviser.  Guidelines for the thesis proposal are available from the program. Once accepted and approved by the adviser and thesis committee, a signed copy of the proposal is filed with the program office.  Upon completion of the thesis, each student must defend it in an oral examination before a thesis committee.  Thesis committees typically consist of three faculty members from PSU, with no more than one member from outside of the CR faculty. After a successful defense and in accordance with PSU’s Procedures for the Master’s Degree, the thesis in its final form is filed with the Graduate School.

Students must complete 8 credits of CR 503 for the thesis option.

Total Credit Hours: 54

Up to 8 credits from outside Conflict Resolution may be counted towards fulfilling degree requirements with approval of adviser.