Undergrad. Catalog 09: Peace and Conflict Studies

Revised May 2009

Interdisciplinary Programs

Peace and Conflict Studies Program

103 Main Hall
610-436-2841
Joan Woolfrey, Coordinator

Peace and conflict studies examines social conflict, conflict resolution, and cooperation at the group, national, and international levels. This process involves understanding factors that contribute to peace with justice, various functions of conflict, and processes by which conflict may be managed. The minor fosters skills for both study and action. Though primarily an enrichment to liberal education, this minor is relevant to a variety of careers, both traditional and emerging. The former include law, communications, education, and government. However, there are also many career opportunities with a wide range of public interest and advocacy organizations.

The peace and conflict studies minor consists of 18 credit hours, some of which also may be used to fulfill other degree requirements. This minor may be taken as one of the minors in the bachelor of arts or bachelor of science in liberal studies general degree program.

Minor in Peace and Conflict Studies (18 semester hours)

1. Required course (3 semester hours)
SSC 200

2. Either of the following (3 semester hours)
PHI 411 or PSC 317

3. Either of the following (3 semester hours)
HIS/WOS 329 or PHI 207

4. Either of the following (3 semester hours)
COM 204 or 216

5. Electives (6 semester hours)
Must be from different departments or disciplines. These include BIO 102; COM 250 and 410; CRJ 470;HIS 332, 352, and 362; LIT 162 and 309; PHI 482; PSC 323; SOC 335, 341; SSC 201; SWO 225; WOS 315.
NOTE: A minimum GPA of 2.00 must be maintained in courses for the minor.

COURSE DESCRIPTION PEACE AND CONFLICT STUDIES

Symbol: SSC

200 Introduction to Peace and Conflict Studies (3) An interdisciplinary inquiry into the nature and causes of social conflict. The aim throughout is to find ways of avoiding destructive conflict, whether through negotiation or other means. The issue of justice as a factor in conflict receives special attention.
Approved interdisciplinary course

201 Global Perspectives (3) This course is intended to help students develop the competencies needed for the understanding of, and meaningful participation in, the world issues of the 21st century.
Approved interdisciplinary course