Transform Conflict into Opportunity

Conflicts can be messy, violent, and destructive, but they also present opportunities for positive change by disturbing the status quo. At the Department of Conflict Resolution, we prepare students to transform disagreements into dialogue, tension into collaboration, and challenges into prospects for growth. Whether you are passionate about resolving conflicts within organizations, building peaceful communities, breaking down barriers among humans and nations, or promoting global understanding, our programs integrate theory, practice, and research to equip you with the knowledge and skills to lead with empathy and courage. Discover how you can make conflict work for people, not against them.

Pushpa Iyer Headshot

Welcome to the Department of Conflict Resolution Studies at Nova Southeastern University. As the chair, I am honored to lead a department that stands out for its dynamism and diversity, mirroring the very essence of the field.

Our department offers robust academic programs—a master's and a Ph.D.—in conflict analysis and resolution. These programs provide critical insights into social behavior, structures, and institutions, equipping students with the practical skills to address and mitigate conflicts at all levels, from interpersonal disputes to international crises.

Our graduate courses are primarily delivered online in response to the evolving landscape of higher education and the increasing demand for flexible learning options. This format allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments while benefiting from rich interaction with faculty and peers. We also offer opportunities to meet in person and engage in hybrid classes, ensuring our students receive a well-rounded and interactive educational experience.

My colleagues bring expertise across multiple disciplines, varied research experiences, and strong knowledge and skills in addressing complex societal issues. As a team, we are committed to providing a comprehensive education in a rich interdisciplinary environment; this involves the opportunity to engage in practice and conduct empirical research along with classroom learning. Our strength is our dedication and passion for preparing the next generation of leaders who can navigate and address these issues with empathy, skill, and the nuances of complex problems.

Today, our society faces unprecedented challenges, including social injustices, political polarization, and global conflicts, so our degrees are highly relevant and needed.

As you explore our website and learn more about our programs, faculty, and research initiatives, I invite you to consider how the fields of sociology and conflict resolution can empower you to make a meaningful impact. Whether you are a prospective student, a current member of our academic community, or a visitor interested in our work, we are excited to share our vision and achievements with you.

Thank you for your interest in the Department of Conflict Resolution Studies at Nova Southeastern University. By choosing our department, you are now a part of a community determined to build a more just and peaceful world.

Warmly,

Pushpa Iyer
Chair, Department of Conflict Resolution Studies
NSU Halmos College of Arts and Sciences

Graduate Programs

Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis

The 69-credit hour Ph.D. program prepares you for careers as an advanced practitioner or educator, with four optional concentration areas to choose from. For maximum flexibility, the degree is offered in both residential and structure distance learning formats.

M.S. in Conflict Analysis

The 30-credit hour M.S. program equips you with the necessary skills to practice, design, and evaluate various conflict resolution applications. Available in both residential and flexible distance learning formats, full-time students can complete this rigorous program in just 15 months.

Residential Institute

Held during the winter semester, this three-day residency is designed to immerse you in an essential academic and professional experience. The event features focused classes, dedicated advising sessions, and invaluable peer mentorship. While mandatory for all current students, we also encourage our DCRS alumni and those in the dissertation stage to attend for ongoing professional development. 

Learn More and View Past Itineraries

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Opportunities and Resources

We believe that the best learning happens through collaboration. At the Department of Conflict Resolution Studies, our students and faculty are partners in the "scholarship of engagement," applying classroom theory and research to real-world social problems alongside community and organizational partners. See the breadth of our applied research and practice through our active Working Groups below.

  • Africa Working Group
  • Conflict Resolution Community of Practice Working Group
  • Latin America and Caribbean Working Group
  • Peace and Conflict Resolution Education Working Group
  • The Social Justice Roundtable
  • Sustainable Development Working Group

Dive into the academic contributions of our alumni. Review the extensive collection of Dissertations and Theses completed by students in the Department of Conflict Resolution Studies to see the depth of research in our field.

Review Dissertations and Theses

Peace and Conflict Studies is committed to interdisciplinary explorations of conflict resolution, peace building, humanitarian assistance, and other mechanisms that seek to prevent and control violence. PCS is also interested in articles focusing on social change and nonviolence, including such areas as sustainable development, reflective practice, action research, human rights, and intercultural relations.

Read Journal

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Student Resource Hub

Need quick access to essential academic tools? Our Student Resource Hub is your one-stop shop for all course schedules, degree plans, practicum handbooks, and dissertation forms. Find everything you need to successfully navigate your program and stay on track for graduation.

Go to Student Resource Hub