Master of Science in New Professional Studies: Peace Operations (PSPO)

The Peace Operations Master's program is a unique program for students and practicing professionals engaged in the planning, regulation, management, and conduct of peace operations. In this 39 credit-hour program, students obtain a working knowledge of the theory, policy, law, research, and practices required for effectively and efficiently participating in, and conducting, a peace operation.

Students are taught to think critically and analytically about the problems and challenges facing efforts to mitigate regional conflicts and to communicate their analyses and proposals for solutions both through written and oral presentations. Evening classes are convenient for the working professional and are located on our Arlington and Fairfax campuses.

Course work in this interdisciplinary program is augmented by extensive research, which may be presented to policymakers at the United Nations and other multilateral agencies. Our students have worked to help resolve conflicts in Liberia, Bosnia, East Timor, Sierra Leone, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

"In a dangerous world, people with the skills acquired in this program are situated to have maximum influence on achieving and sustaining peace," says Program Director Allison Frendak-Blume. "The Peace Operations Program is an exceptionally relevant program that integrates education, research, and field application to give students the best possible experience in theory and practice of peace operations."

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Peace Operations Program - Research and Field Application
Syllabus

PSPO Program Guide
Masters Theses and Final Projects