Learning Model
In view of the difficult nature of the work and the realities encountered in the field, the MA in Human Security and Peacebuilding program was intentionally designed to be personally and professionally demanding in terms of course content, expectations for skills development, and the credits required for completion. It is strongly believed that high standards are essential if graduates from the program are to have the potential to make a significant contribution to the peacebuilding process in the field and not endanger themselves and others, as well as the goal of sustainable peace to which they were working.
This is an intense program with residency periods that require the student to spend three weeks at a time away from their families and jobs. The third residency (HSPB 615) requires the student to spend three weeks in the field overseas. In addition, those students who do not have previous field experience will be required to secure an international Professional Field Practice that will necessitate a six month commitment overseas, often in an area where conflict is occurring. While some students are able to complete these requirements while fulfilling family and work obligations, serious consideration should be given before applying.
To meet the requirements for the MA in Human Security and Peacebuilding, students must complete a minimum of 42 credits of course and project work over three residential semesters and three distance semesters.
Most students spend 12-15 hours per week participating in online discussions, accessing course resources, and preparing assignments.
The program will be divided into three phases. Each one will be comprised of a three-week residency and four months of distance learning. Each phase will be characterized by different learning objectives, which will serve specific purposes in the strategy to achieve the learning philosophy of the program.
The initial phase - Introductory - will set the fundamental conceptual and theoretical elements for strategic, systemic, multidisciplinary and, above all, critical thinking regarding human security and its implications for the agenda involving peacebuilding issues.
The second phase - Analytical/Developmental - will be oriented to enhance an in-depth understanding and explanation of the major dimensions and disciplinary approaches (both micro and macro) to the environmental, economic, social, political and cultural variables that impinge upon human security and sustainable livelihoods. Much of the analytical framework will be referenced to issues of social reconstruction and peacebuilding.
The third phase - Critical Synthesis - will seek to provide the participants with an integrated, reflective and systemic articulation of the various factors and perspectives that constitute human security and peacebuilding studies especially, but not exclusively, with regards to complex humanitarian emergencies.
Upon completion of the three phases, students will have acquired the skills to intervene meaningfully (policy, management, delivery, prevention or reconstruction) in peacebuilding processes aimed at either preventing the escalation of violence or rebuilding societies and communities in the aftermath of conflict.
