MA in Peace and Conflict Studies

Rationale of the Program

Launching this program in Ethiopia which is found in the conflict prone zone; the Horn of Africa its relevance is unquestionable. In recent years, the region has been witnessing the emergence of religious extremism and terrorism which exacerbated the fragile political situation and conflict breeds here and there. As a result, the Faculty of Social Science feels that it is time to launch a graduate program focusing on Peace and Conflict Studies to bridge the knowledge gap in this field of study. In this case Addis Ababa University is a pioneer in establishing Institute for Peace and Security Studies.  However, the graduate program in Peace and Security Studies at Addis Ababa University has been overwhelmed with applicants. Thus it could not fully satisfy the growing need to join the graduate program. As are a result in recent years, there has been a growing demand for the opening of new graduate program in Peace and Conflict studies.

The need for the program arises from different stakeholders both at federal and regional institutions and offices. In the need assessment is indicted that launching such program will create an opportunity to individuals and organizations. Respondents indicated that there are tasks which require competent professionals in the area of pace building, culture of peace, conflict management and resolution. Especially, the regional bureaus (Amhara region in particular) such as the regional council and Administrative and security affairs Bureau have shown great interest for such program in meeting the gaps of well trained professionals.

In addition the very reason of launching a new program in Peace and Conflict Studies is to produce human resources equipped with knowledge, attitude and skill who can contribute in the process of handling conflict peacefully and promote development. It is beyond doubt that Conflict-poverty-conflict vicious cycle in Africa can be reduced by producing human power who are qualified enough and play a role in managing and transforming Conflict. 

Objectives

The general objective of the graduate program is to produce highly qualified researchers and specialists in contemporary issues like peace and conflict. The program has also the following specific objectives:

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To equip trainees with the required skills in investigating conflicts and studying issues;

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To enable graduate students to identify research problems in relation to conflicts;

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To encourage research on such conflict-ridden areas like the Horn of Africa and the Nile  Basin; and

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To produce capable graduates who can make their own contribution in handling local        and regional conflicts.

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To increase research output by graduate students

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To examine the role of different actors and factors of conflict at national, regional and international level that influence harmonious relationship.

Course Break Down (by year and Semester) Regular

        Year I Semester I

   Year I Semester II

Year II Semester I and II