HELP 2014-2015 University Catalog Conflict Analysis and Resolution, MS Print-Friendly Page

Banner Code: CA-MS-CONF

This 41-credit, two-year professional program prepares students for practice and further academic work by integrating conflict analysis and resolution theory, research, and practical techniques. Participants study the theory, methods, and ethical perspectives of the field, and apply this knowledge in laboratory simulations and workshops, internships, and field practice. Graduates work in a variety of settings where conflict resolution is useful and interest groups are in conflict with current and emergent public policy. Examples are businesses, unions, government agencies, religious groups, court systems, educational institutions, community centers, international relief and development organizations, and consulting firms. 

An accelerated master’s option is available to students in the bachelor’s program.  See Conflict Analysis and Resolution, BA or BS/Conflict Analysis and Resolution, Accelerated MS  for specific requirements.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study  as specified in the Admission section of this catalog. In addition, applicants must submit all undergraduate and graduate transcripts; three letters of recommendation, one of which should be from a faculty member in the applicant’s undergraduate or graduate major field; a resume or curriculum vitae; and a 750- to 1,000-word essay on goals and reasons for seeking admission to the program. GRE or other standardized test scores are not required but may be submitted. The TOEFL is required of international students. For more information, see Admission of International Students  sections in the Admission  section. Students can be admitted to the MS program for both the Fall and Spring semesters.

Background courses in social sciences, as well as prior work experience, are desirable. Prior graduate academic work is evaluated on an individual basis for possible transfer credit and fulfillment of program requirements; however, Mason usually does not reduce the total credits required for the degree. Students may enroll on a full- or part-time basis.

Transfer of Non-Degree Credit

A maximum of 12 credits of S-CAR graduate courses taken at George Mason as a non-degree graduate student, or as part of S-CAR’s graduate certificate program may be transferred into the MS program.  How credit will be counted will be determined in consultation with the admitted student’s advisor. A maximum of six credits of non-S-CAR courses taken as non-degree credit can be counted toward the MS program.  Courses counted toward another degree cannot be transferred.

Adding an S-CAR Certificate Program

Students may elect to complete an S-CAR Graduate Certificate in addition to the MS program. Graduate certificates are opportunities for students to further tailor their academic program and specialize in a specific area of conflict resolution practice. Certain graduate certificate courses can be used to fulfill MS program requirements.  Students should consult with the Certificate Program Director and the Master’s Program Director for policies on counting certificate courses toward the MS degree.

Peace Corps Master’s International

The Master’s International, a joint program of Mason and the Peace Corps enables participants to prepare for Peace Corps volunteer services while earning an MS in Conflict Analysis and Resolution. Students apply separately to the Peace Corps and to Mason. The 41-credit curriculum provides students with skills and tools to prepare them for work as community development leaders during their Peace Corps Service.  An accelerated pathway is provided to allow Peace Corps volunteers to complete 29 credits prior to overseas service (including a summer term), students then receive six credits of CONF 694  internship for overseas Peace Corps service.  Mason will provide tuition support for the six credits of CONF 694  earned overseas.  Students then return to Mason for a semester to complete the final six credits.  Students accepted into the academic program but waiting for notification of acceptance from the Peace Corps may begin their Master’s program but will not be eligible for tuition support until they are accepted into the Peace Corps. More information on Master’s International Program can be found at www.peacecorps.gov/index.cfm

Dual Degree Program with the University of Malta

Students have the opportunity to pursue a MS in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University and a MA in Conflict Resolution and Mediterranean Security from the University of Malta through an innovative Dual Degree Program. Teaching faculty includes professors from both George Mason University and the University of Malta. All teaching is in English and all classes are held at the Valetta Campus of the University of Malta. The 400-year-old University of Malta Valletta campus incorporates state-of-the-art instructional technology. The entire program is delivered over three intensive semesters on a full time basis starting in October. Throughout the first two semesters classes are held on a block basis while the third semester is devoted to the completion of thesis/project work.  Dual degree students have the requirement for CONF 642  waived by Mason, and must complete the Master’s Thesis as their Integration Requirement.

Orientation in Malta begins at the end of September. Classes begin the beginning of October through June. Students work on their theses from June until October. University of Malta graduation is in November and GMU graduation is in December. The total duration of the program is 15 months.  More information is available at scar.gmu.edu/academics/maltaprogram.  Students interested in pursuing the dual degree should apply through University of Malta at www.um.edu.mt/imp.