Study this innovative, interdisciplinary and cutting-edge programme, designed to provide you with crucial opportunities to explore the political, social, economic, legal, and psychological dimensions shaping the transformation of violent conflict.
The programme arrives at a critical juncture, when global manifestations of conflict are both escalating and becoming more diverse, while the current conflict transformation and peacebuilding paradigm is under review.
Dominant forms of conflict resolution are increasingly inappropriate - our world needs new forms of expertise and innovative practice in conflict transformation. We need a deeper understanding of the varied impacts of conflict, the application of new technologies for conflict resolution and peacebuilding, and how to advance more peaceful and just transitions. Draw on insights from politics, international relations, sociology and law to understand framings of violence and other forms of conflict in this interdisciplinary programme.
You will take a combination of mandatory and optional taught units within the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies.
Each unit is delivered over the course of 12 weeks and assessed by an analytical and research-based essay (or equivalent other work). The taught section of the programme is followed by a dissertation unit.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding
You will typically need a strong second-class honours degree (55% or higher) or an international equivalent in any discipline.
If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.
We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree.
We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.
If your achieved grade is lower than our entry requirements, your application may be more likely to receive an offer if you have additional qualifications. If you have additional qualifications, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing:
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level E.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels .
Apply via our online application system. For further information, please see the guidance for how to apply on our webpages.
Overseas applicants: 12 August 2027. Home applicants: 9 September 2027.
Please note that due to high demand, some programmes may close earlier than advertised. Early applications are advised to avoid disappointment. Places are limited and allocated on a continuous basis from September 2026 until all places are filled.