Peace and Conflict Studies – Master of Peace and Conflict Studies (MPACS) (Conrad Grebel University College)

Conrad Grebel residence building

Conrad Grebel University College residence building

Turbulent times like ours call for people who understand systems of violence and conflict, and who are prepared to build peace with justice.

The Master of Peace and Conflict Studies program combines rigorous interdisciplinary scholarship with experiential learning opportunities to empower you with the knowledge and skills to contribute to nonviolent peacebuilding.

In this coursework-based professional degree based out of Conrad Grebel University College (a University of Waterloo-affiliated university college), you’ll learn to identify and transform systems of violence, marginalization and oppression, including racist, gendered and colonial violence at home and around the world.

Designed to be completed in 16 months of full-time study, you can also choose the part-time option to better-suit your needs. Complete coursework along with options for independent research, and get hands-on, real-world experience through an optional internship placement and conflict skills workshops.  

You'll be prepared to work in a range of fields across the non-profit, public, and private sectors, including conflict management, peacebuilding and restorative justice, international development, human rights, research and policy analysis, and more.

Program highlights

  • Connect theory, analysis, reflection, and practice with a distinctive focus on civil society and community-led change.
  • Benefit from the combined community, resources, and facilities of Gebel and the University of Waterloo.
  • Learn from field-experienced faculty members.  
  • Opportunities for hands-on, real-world experience. 

Research areas and degree options

  • Peace Integration

Program overview

Department/School: Peace and Conflict Studies
Faculty: Conrad Grebel University College
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December)
Delivery mode: On-campus (Conrad Grebel University College campus)
Program type: Master's, Professional
Length of program: 16 months (full-time), 60 months (part-time)

Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Coursework

Application deadlines

  • February 1 (for admission in September)

Key contacts

Thomas Fraser
thomas.fraser@uwaterloo.ca
519-888-4567, ext. 24248

Admission requirements

  • A four-year undergraduate degree (a variety of disciplines are permitted; PACS graduates are not granted advanced placement) with a minimum average of at least 75% in the final 20 courses.
  • The Admissions Committee reserves the right to require additional preparation for students without significant academic background in Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) or a related discipline. This additional preparation may involve completion of a required e-learning course or module, undergraduate course(s) or other appropriate requirement.
  • Previous experience in the field, while not required, will be looked upon favourably.
  • An interview will be required for entrance into the program.
  • Deferrals for admission and delayed entries will not be permitted.
  • Alternative admission requirements: PACS may grant alternative admission to a limited number of mature students who do not meet the regular academic admission requirements of a four-year Bachelor's degree or equivalent. Standardized graduate entrance examinations are not equitably accessible and appropriate as the basis for such admission. Therefore the admissions committee will be guided by the following alternative admission standards:
    • Minimum eight years of field experience related to peace and conflict issues. In order to show an appropriate level of academic and intellectual capacity for the program, the applicant will be asked to submit copies of reports, documents, manuscripts, or creative media that he/she may have prepared in relation to his/her field experience;
    • Evidence of successful participation in post-secondary education as documented by transcripts and other records;
    • References will be asked to comment on the applicant's academic and intellectual capacity and on the applicant's ability to do graduate work in English;
    • Applicants will be interviewed to assess the potential of their success in graduate studies and their contribution to the program;
    • Some applicants may be required to complete a specified qualifying program of PACS or related courses deemed helpful to prepare them for their proposed program of studies;
    • Probationary admission may be granted for a specified time to confirm the applicant's ability to succeed in the program.

Degree requirements

  • Review the degree requirements in the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree.

Application materials

  • Resume
  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
  • Transcript(s)
  • Writing sample
  • References
    • Three references are required, at least two academic
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable

    • TOEFL 100 (writing 26, speaking 26), IELTS 7.5 (writing 7.0, speaking 7.0)

Tuition and fees