Conflict Resolution

Smith Memorial Student Union (SMSU)
Suite M310

503-725-9175

www.pdx.edu/conflict-resolution

• B.A., B.S. Minor.
• Undergraduate Certificate in Transformative Messaging
• M.A., M.S.
• Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution (GCCR-CR)
• Graduate Certificate in Applied Conflict Resolution (GCCR-GCAP)

The Bachelors of Arts/Sciences, the Minor and Master of Arts/Sciences degree programs in conflict resolution are trans-disciplinary, encompassing the practical and theoretical bases of mediation and negotiation, involving research, theory, and competency-based education to help build conditions necessary for positive peace, conflict transformation (from destructive to constructive), and universal respect for context-sensitive human rights.

Students in the conflict resolution programs learn how to analyze conflict, uncover the underpinnings of conflicts in a wide variety of settings and scales. Students gain skills to defuse and deescalate destructive conflicts that arise among individuals, groups, and countries. Bachelor's degree holders are suited to entry-level careers in the field of conflict resolution, as well as being prepared to add value in any community setting, occupational field or workplace by bringing conflict transformation strategies to bear. Master's degree holders are prepared for leadership positions in conflict management and intervention via governmental, non-governmental, and corporate actors in local, regional, national and international settings.  Minor degree holders add a conflict resolution component to their credentials while majoring in any field of study.

Both the graduate and undergraduate programs provides skill development through an integration of theory, method, and practice. Undergraduates acquire these skills commensurate with those required for working in peace and conflict settings, as well as those that add value to any community and occupational category. They go on to focus on transformation of conflict for the achievement of peace and social justice at the small group and community level. Graduate students emphasize implications of skill development for leadership in conflict and peace intervention, and go on to focus on perspectives, strategies and processes at the organizational level of peace building and conflict transformation.

Courses in conflict resolution are also offered in support of programs in other fields.