MA in Reconciliation and Peacebuilding

This course supports you in developing an in-depth understanding of diverse perspectives on peacebuilding and reconciliation. Drawing on the work of the Winchester Centre of Religion, Reconciliation and Peace and Embrace Dialogue, the course critically considers the complexities of interpersonal- and intercommunal conflict, peacebuilding and reconciliation, the influence of culture and religion and the connections between theory and practice.

Our course addresses why individuals and groups around the world engage in violence and the effects it has on them and their communities. It also examines, which processes are needed to transform relationships, structures and institutions during and after violent conflict. In addition, it also teaches you how to use conflict transformation methods such as facilitation, dialogue and mediation. Furthermore, the course also enables you to conduct independent research and it pays special attention to the roles of culture, religion and religious actors.

The course consists of some core modules (Foundation of Reconciliation and Peacebuilding; Theories and Dynamics of Reconciliation, and Religion and Peacebuilding) and some optional modules (The Relationship between Theory and Practice; Dialogue and Disagreement, and Practical Bridge Building). You also complete an independent study, for which you have the option of writing a dissertation of 15,000 to 20,000 words; undertaking a consultancy placement with an organisation working in the field; or developing and reflecting on a practical project.

The course is designed to encourage you to personalise your learning journey in accordance with your interests and we encourage our students to reflect on their own personal and professional development throughout the course Our learning and teaching approach is student-centred, inclusive, informed by research and based on a high degree of interactivity. We offer an international curriculum that is unceasingly updated to reflect the ever-changing field of study. In our virtual learning environment students engage in interactive lectures and seminars, group work, research exercises and one-to-one tutorials.

The course is taught by a team of highly qualified, experienced and enthusiastic staff who work for the Winchester Centre of Religion, Reconciliation and Peace a high-impact centre dedicated to fostering peace and reconciliation across the world. You are required to attend online sessions but all other activities can be carried out when it is convenient for you so studying with us can easily fit around other personal- and professional commitments. We provide a very inclusive and supportive learning environment with one-to-one modular tutorials, extensive feedback on assignments and tailored supervision. We also place a lot of emphasis on developing a vibrant learning community where students get to know each other through relationship building exercises and pair- and group work.

Our greatest asset is our diverse and international student body that offers many opportunities of intercultural exchanges of experiences and perspectives from around the world.