2011-2012 University Catalog 
  
2011-2012 University Catalog

Conflict Analysis and Resolution, MS


Banner Code: CA-MS-CONF

This 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. 

Admission Requirements

In addition to meeting all admission requirements for graduate study, 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 the Admission of International Students section in the Admissions chapter of this catalog.  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 M.S. program.  How credit will be counted will be determined in consultation with the accepted student’s advisor. A maximum of 6 credits of non-S-CAR courses taken as non-degree credit can be counted toward the M.S. 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 6 credits of CONF 694 internship for overseas Peace Corps service.  Mason will provide tuition support for the 6 credits of CONF 694 earned overseas.  Students then return to Mason for a semester to complete the final 6 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 M.S. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University and a M.A. in Conflict Resolution and Mediterranean Security from the University of Malta through an innovative Dual Degree Program.  This 14 month program is offered only on site at the University of Malta.  Students interested in pursuing the dual degree should apply through University of Malta at www.um.edu.mt/imp/home.aspx.

Degree Requirements


Forty-one credits are required: 15 in required core courses, 20 in elective courses, and 6 in integrative courses (students can choose from a defined list). Mason requires all students to complete the master’s degree within six years of their official admission date.

Because the choice of electives can vary significantly according to individual goals or needs, each student should develop a plan of study that should be discussed once each semester with the advisor and updated as appropriate.

Please check the S-CAR student handbook for information on registration procedures.

Required Courses


Students take the following 15 credits of required course work.

Elective Courses


Students take 20 credits of elective coursework.  Electives are any 500, 600, or 700 level CONF courses, except required courses.  With the advisor’s approval, each student is eligible to include a maximum of 6 credits of electives from outside the ICAR program, including courses in other Mason departments, consortium courses,  and transfer courses from other universities.

Integrative Courses


Students must complete 6 credits of integrative work, choosing one of the following options:

Applied Practice and Theory


The Applied Practice and Theory (APT) Program is a 6-credit course that runs yearlong. It is designed to take the concepts presented in class and practiced in labs into real situations with conflict and consequences. Students work in teams integrating research and practice with theory development and applied ethics.

Internship


The internship program provides students with opportunities to use and develop conflict resolution skills, integrate theory and practice of conflict analysis and resolution, and network with professionals in the field to enhance employment opportunities. Experience does not necessarily have to be explicitly hands on. CONF 694 requires at least 160 hours of supervised work on a project toward the analysis or resolution of conflict. Such work must be spelled out in a memorandum of agreement to be signed by the student, the site supervisor, and the internship coordinator before the internship begins.  Students may either take 6 credits of CONF 694 or 3 credits of CONF 694 & 3 of CONF 795.

Thesis


Students wishing to complete a Master’s Thesis are strongly encouraged to take CONF 797 (Proposal Development) the semester before beginning the thesis project.  Before registering, students must have identified a Master’s thesis committee chair to supervise the project.  Students should contact ICAR student services to receive the CRN to register for thesis.

Directed Readings


Only two directed readings (CONF 697) may be applied toward requirements for the master’s degree (maximum 6 credits).

Total: 41 credits