International Conflict Analysis
Conflict, in its many forms, has been a permanent feature of human society. While not all conflict is destructive, the violent conduct of conflict has caused innumerable deaths and indescribable pain and suffering. It is this kind of deadly conflict that International Conflict Analysis addresses. It tries to understand its causes, to explain its effects and to describe its dynamics in order to prepare actors, be they state governments, international organisations or individuals, to better manage conflict peacefully, or to prevent it in the first place. This degree examines the major theories and leading practices of conflict and conflict resolution in international affairs, supplementing theory with detailed case studies. Topics include risk analysis, negotiation, mediation, conference diplomacy, twin track diplomacy, third party intervention, peace keeping, peace making, and coercive diplomacy. The programme includes simulation exercises. The programme draws on the vast pool of expertise on conflict analysis, management and resolution in the Department and benefits from the presence of the Conflict Analysis Research Centre, a leading research centre in the field.
Programme Structure
Full-time students complete the MA in International Conflict Analysis over twelve months. Study is divided between taught modules, which last for one term each, and dissertation work. For full-time students, a total of six modules must be taken over the first two terms. Supervised dissertation work, on a relevant agreed subject, is then undertaken during the remainder of the academic year.
The MA can be taken on a part-time basis, typically over two years but flexible arrangements are also possible. When taking it over two years, part-time students choose three modules in each academic year, and write a supervised dissertation thereafter.
The programme is also offered in a 120 ECTS format – comprising nine taught modules plus a dissertation over 18 months – and as a Postgraduate Diploma – comprising six taught modules only – worth 120 Kent credits [60 ECTS]. Both the 120 ECTS version and the Diploma can also be taken on a part-time basis.
A two year MA with the first year spent in Brussels and the second year in Canterbury is also available and is worth 120 ECTS.
Autumn term
3 modules of 20 credits each
Required
Optional
- PO824 International Relations Theory
- PO839 Ethics in International Relations
- PO866 Federalism and Federal Political Systems
- PO885 Decision-making in the European Union
- PO916 International Security in a Changing World
- PO920 International Political Economy: Conflict, Co-operation and Institutions
- PO926 Designing Democracy
Spring term
3 modules of 20 credits each
Required
Optional
Teaching
Teaching on this programme is based on lectures and seminars, typically one hour each, weekly, per course. Both lectures and seminars are given by full time members of the staff who have internationally-recognised expertise in their fields and are informed by the latest research and scholarship. Assessment is mainly by coursework, typically two essays of different lengths and a seminar presentation, supplemented in some courses by an examination. The dissertation is a supervised 14,000 word piece of individual research.
Career Options
Non-Governmental Organisations; International organisations; Diplomacy; European institutions; Civil service; Political consultancy; Think tanks; Media; Industry and commerce
Fees and Funding
Fees for students commencing studies in 2009:
| MA | £3,670 [UK and EU rate] | £10,350 [Overseas rate] |
| MA (120 ECTS): | £2,450 [UK and EU rate] | £6,900 [Overseas rate] per annum |
| PDip | £2,450 [UK and EU rate] | £6,900 [Overseas rate] |
N.B. The fees above will change slightly for students commencing their studies in 2010. For further information regarding fees please visit the Student Funding website.
French citizens can apply for a bursary for this programme, through the Entente Cordiale scheme. For further information please contact the Paris Office of the British Council.
Overseas applicant can apply for a Chevening Scholarship offered by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. For further information please contact the nearest office of the British Council.
Admissions
We admit a small number of highly qualified candidates in each academic year. Early applications, i.e. by the end of March, are strongly encouraged. Please check the information on how to apply for further details on entry requirements and instructions on submitting your application online.
Further Information
For more information about this programme and any queries you might have, please contact our Recruitment and Marketing Officer, Roxanne Gotch. You can also visit our campus and meet our teaching staff by attending the University’s Open Days held in February and December. Alternatively, you can meet our representatives at one of the educational events we regularly attend around the world.