Program Requirements

Concentrators are required to complete six courses as follows

• At least one course in each of the following categories: 
  • Ethical and philosophical approaches to peace, war, and conflict. Courses in this category examine the arguments of different ethical, religious, or philosophical traditions on the conditions under which - if ever - war and violence may be justified. Some recent courses that would fulfill this requirement include War and Peace in the Christian Tradition, War and Conscience, and Ethics and International Relations.
  • In-depth examination of contemporary/modern large-scale conflict. Courses in this category provide a detailed focus on a particular violent conflict or conflicts. Recent courses that would fulfill this requirement include, but are not limited to, Italy and France: War and Resistance, Civil War and American Society, World War II on the Homefront, Law and Violence in the Americas, and Political Violence.
  • Structural causes of violence and conflict. Courses in this category examine social phenomena that are regular causes of conflict or violence, including poverty, ethnic conflict, or racism. Currently offered courses which would fulfill this requirement would include Faith and World Poverty, Managing Ethnic Conflict, and Structures of Social Inequality.

No more than two courses from a student's major can be counted for concentration credit.

Capstone experiences, in which a concentrator writes a thesis paper on a topic related to Peace and Conflict Studies, are strongly encouraged although not required. Capstones are usually done either through an independent study course which receives a course credit, or as an additional assignment completed by a student in an existing PCON course. Capstones which are done as independent study courses can be counted towards the six course PCON requirement. Each year the achievements of an outstanding senior concentrator are recognized with the Hampsch Award, and only concentrators who have completed a capstone will be considered for the award.

How to apply:
You may become a Peace & Conflict Studies concentrator at any time until the end of the second semester of your junior year, or at the Director's discretion. In order to declare the concentration, you should do the following:

• Obtain and fill out a Change of Plan form from STAR.
• Obtain an unofficial transcript from STAR and mark your major courses and your concentration courses.
• Meet with Pr. Cicovacki (SMITH 518) to discuss your plans and obtain his signature on your Change of Plan form.
• Meet with your advisor to obtain his/her signature on your Change of Plan form.
• Meet with Pr. Cunningham (Smith 329) to give her your unofficial transcript and to have her sign your Change of Plan form.  NOTE: Pr. Cunningham's office will then take your Change of Plan form and will bring it to the Class Dean's Office for his/her signature and processing.