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MA in Peace And Conflict Resolution at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Peace and Conflict Resolution at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This MA Peace and Conflict Resolution program at University of Mysore focuses on understanding, analyzing, and resolving conflicts at various levels, from local to global. It equips students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in mediation, negotiation, and peacebuilding, highly relevant in India''''s diverse and complex socio-political landscape. The program addresses emerging challenges and aims to foster a cadre of professionals dedicated to peace.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into peacebuilding, diplomacy, or humanitarian aid. It also suits working professionals, including those in NGOs, government agencies, or security sectors, looking to upskill in conflict resolution. Career changers transitioning into social impact roles or international relations will find value in its comprehensive approach, requiring a keen interest in global affairs.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in conflict analysis, mediation, humanitarian work, and policy formulation. Roles might include peace researcher, NGO program manager, diplomat, or journalist specializing in conflict zones. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, potentially growing to INR 8-15 LPA with experience in relevant organizations like UN bodies, government think tanks, or international NGOs.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core concepts of peace studies, conflict theories, and international relations. Engage in critical reading of seminal texts and academic journals to develop analytical skills from the outset.
Tools & Resources
University library, JSTOR, Project MUSE, Online courses on Coursera/edX
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for advanced research, policy analysis, and informs effective real-world conflict intervention strategies in various professional settings.
Develop Research & Writing Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in research methodology classes, practice academic writing by structuring arguments, citing sources correctly, and preparing short research papers. Seek regular feedback from professors to improve continuously.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for citation management, Grammarly, University writing center, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
These skills are essential for any role involving policy briefs, project reports, academic research, or grant proposals in NGOs, think tanks, or government agencies.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussion Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss complex theories, debate contemporary conflicts, and share different perspectives. This enhances understanding and critical thinking in a collaborative environment.
Tools & Resources
Online collaborative tools (Google Docs), WhatsApp groups, Departmental common room for discussions, Student seminars
Career Connection
Fosters crucial communication and teamwork skills vital for multidisciplinary peace and conflict resolution teams, and prepares for collaborative problem-solving in professional roles.
Intermediate Stage
Practical Application through Case Studies- (Semester 3)
Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world regional conflicts and peace initiatives. Analyze case studies, identify key actors, and propose resolution strategies. Participate in mock negotiations or mediation exercises.
Tools & Resources
United States Institute of Peace (USIP) resources, UN Peacebuilding Commission reports, Academic journals on regional conflicts, Guest lectures by practitioners
Career Connection
Develops problem-solving skills and the ability to critically assess complex situations, highly valued in diplomatic services, humanitarian aid, and NGO field roles.
Network with Practitioners and Experts- (Semester 3)
Attend webinars, seminars, and conferences related to peace and conflict resolution. Reach out to guest speakers, faculty members, and alumni working in relevant fields to build professional connections and explore career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Professional associations like Indian Pugwash Society, Department events
Career Connection
Crucial for securing internships, mentorship, and future job referrals in this specialized field, opening doors to various national and international organizations.
Deepen Specialization with Electives- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose soft core and open elective subjects that align with specific interests within peace and conflict resolution, such as media''''s role, human rights, or environmental conflicts, to build expertise in a niche area.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Career counseling services, Detailed course descriptions of electives
Career Connection
Helps in developing a focused profile for specific job roles and demonstrates specialized knowledge to potential employers, enhancing employability in targeted sectors.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a High-Impact Dissertation Project- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic that addresses a current, relevant conflict or peacebuilding challenge, ideally with potential for policy implications or community impact. Conduct rigorous research and present findings effectively.
Tools & Resources
Academic supervisors, Statistical software (if applicable), Fieldwork opportunities (if feasible), Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capabilities, analytical depth, and contributes significantly to a professional portfolio for research-oriented roles or higher studies.
Prepare for Placements and Career Launch- (Semester 4)
Actively engage in career development activities, including resume building, cover letter writing, and interview preparation. Seek out internship opportunities in NGOs, think tanks, or government bodies related to peace and conflict.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn Jobs), Mock interview sessions, Alumni mentorship programs
Career Connection
Directly translates into securing entry-level positions in the desired sector, building practical experience, and initiating a successful professional career in peace and conflict resolution.
Cultivate Cross-Cultural Communication Skills- (Semester 4)
Engage with diverse perspectives during group projects, discussions, and potentially through volunteer work or cultural exchange programs. Practice empathy and active listening, essential for working in multicultural conflict environments.
Tools & Resources
Language learning apps, International student organizations, Workshops on intercultural communication, Participation in Model UN
Career Connection
Indispensable for roles in international organizations, diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and any field requiring engagement with diverse populations and sensitive issues globally.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate who has passed any Bachelor’s Degree Examination of this University or any other University considered as equivalent thereto by this University with a minimum of 45% marks in aggregate (40% in case of SC/ST/CAT-1 candidates) shall be eligible for admission to the M.A. degree course in Peace and Conflict Resolution.
Duration: 4 semesters
Credits: 76 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HC 1.1 | Foundations of Peace and Conflict Resolution | Core | 4 | Peace Studies, Conflict Resolution, Gandhi''''s Philosophy of Peace, Human Rights, Non-violence |
| HC 1.2 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Sampling, Data Analysis |
| HC 1.3 | Dynamics of International Relations | Core | 4 | Theories of IR, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Global Actors, International Organizations, Regionalism |
| HC 1.4 | Human Security | Core | 4 | Concept of Human Security, Food Security, Health Security, Environmental Security, Personal Security |
| SC 1.5 | Gender and Peace | Elective | 4 | Gender roles in conflict, Women in peacebuilding, Feminist approaches to peace, Gender-based violence, UNSCR 1325 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HC 2.1 | Theories of Conflict | Core | 4 | Conflict theories, Causes of conflict, Levels of conflict, Intrastate conflicts, Interstate conflicts |
| HC 2.2 | International Law and Organizations | Core | 4 | Nature of International Law, Sources of International Law, United Nations, Regional Organizations, International Courts |
| HC 2.3 | Human Rights and Justice | Core | 4 | Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights Regimes, Transitional Justice, Restorative Justice |
| HC 2.4 | Environmental Conflict and Resource Management | Core | 4 | Environmental security, Resource scarcity, Climate change, Water conflicts, Sustainable development |
| SC 2.5 | Terrorism and Counter Terrorism | Elective | 4 | Definitions of Terrorism, Causes of Terrorism, Types of Terrorism, Global Terrorism, Counter-terrorism strategies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HC 3.1 | Conflict Transformation and Peacebuilding | Core | 4 | Conflict transformation, Peacebuilding approaches, Post-conflict reconstruction, Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration (DDR) |
| HC 3.2 | Ethics of Peace and Conflict | Core | 4 | Ethical theories, Just War theory, Pacifism, Moral dilemmas in conflict, Humanitarian intervention |
| HC 3.3 | Regional Conflicts and Peace Initiatives | Core | 4 | Case studies of regional conflicts, Peace processes, Mediation, Diplomacy, Role of regional organizations |
| SC 3.4 | Media and Conflict | Elective | 4 | Role of media in conflict, Conflict reporting, Peace journalism, Propaganda, Social media and conflict |
| OE 3.5 | Open Elective | Elective | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HC 4.1 | Geopolitics and Global Security | Core | 4 | Geopolitical theories, Global power dynamics, Nuclear proliferation, Cyber warfare, Maritime security |
| HC 4.2 | Diplomacy and Negotiation | Core | 4 | Theories of Diplomacy, Negotiation strategies, Mediation techniques, Crisis management, Track I and Track II diplomacy |
| SC 4.3 | International Migration and Refugee Crisis | Elective | 4 | Causes of migration, Refugee law, Human trafficking, Asylum seekers, Global governance of migration |
| DIS 4.4 | Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research proposal development, Literature review, Data collection and analysis, Thesis writing, Viva-voce |
