Peace and Conflict Studies

The Certificate Program in Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) is designed to help students explore why conflict and violence occur and learn how conflict can be managed and transformed to accomplish constructive ends. The certificate is granted by the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, but students in any school or major at the University of Colorado may earn it.   

The program takes an interdisciplinary perspective to the study of conflict, cooperation, war, and peace. Course work from various departments focuses on personal and social change, intra- and international conflicts, processes of conflict resolution, creative nonviolent activism, and the analysis of violence of various forms. The program encourages hands-on, “in the field” learning of peace and conflict issues through volunteer and internship placements with a wide variety of peace, justice, and development agencies.   

Completion of the certification requires 24 credit hours (15 upper division) of study including:

  • PACS 2500 Introduction to Peace and Conflict Studies
  • PACS 4500 Senior Seminar in Peace and Conflict Studies
  • 9 credit hours of relevant course work in the student’s major
  • 9 credit hours of relevant course work outside the major.

For information or application go to the program’s website: 3cg.colorado.edu/drupal_pacs.

Course code for this program is PACS.