International Peace Studies examines the sources of war and armed conflict and suggests methods of preventing and resolving them through processes of peacemaking and peacebuilding.
Peace Studies allows one to examine the causes and prevention of war, as well as the nature of violence, including social oppression, discrimination and marginalization.
Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in International Peace Studies in the following subject areas:
There are many courses in International Peace Studies that may take place over a few days, weeks or even 1 year to 4 years depending on the course and modules selected. There are also part-time courses and night courses available so you can be sure to fit in your studies no matter what your schedule is like.
Courses will cover theory work through lectures, assignments, tutorials and taught modules. Assessments will take place on a continuous basis with written examinations and practical assignments combined in order to achieve a qualification.
You could also consider work experience or a work shadow in the industry. Relevant work experience is a good way of demonstrating a genuine interest in the field and is regarded favorably by employers.
Work Experience will not only give you the opportunity to obtain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the industry, it will also give you a chance to do some essential networking with other industry professionals and gain valuable contacts for the future.
After completing an International Peace Studies course you will be able to get started in a career that uses specific knowledge of International History, Law and Humanitarian issues.
There is tremendous flexibility for peace studies graduates to tailor their coursework to their specific interests; graduates pursue jobs and careers in a variety of fields. The skills you gain as a peace studies major transfer into almost any setting. For example, companies and organizations of all types seek out candidates who demonstrate the ability to think strategically, resolve conflicts non-violently, communicate effectively, and solve problems creatively.
Humanitarian aid work often involves responding to emergency situations, helping those affected by natural and man-made disasters, such as earthquakes and war.
As an international aid or development worker, you would work with developing countries to set up long-term, sustainable solutions to problems. You could also be involved with the development of urban and rural areas and small businesses to work on development projects in fields such as education, sanitation, health and agriculture.
You may decide to go into law or politics and work towards raising awareness of international policies.
Working hours will depend on whether you are self-employed, employed by a company with set business hours or if you are contracted to various businesses or companies. Fixed-term contracts, ranging from a few months to three years, are typical for overseas postings - making career breaks, as well as periods of unemployment between assignments, a possibility. Overseas working hours may be long and unpredictable, particularly in emergency relief situations.
After completing a course in International Peace Studies you may choose to pursue further study in a specialist field to increase your knowledge base and skill set. Postgraduate study can also be used as a means to change career focus or to gain professional qualifications required to practice in certain career areas such as Economics, Human rights, International development or development studies, Languages, Logistics, Medicine, nursing and other health-related subjects, Social policy, Water or sanitation engineering.
What skills could be helpful for a career in International Peace Studies?
If you are considering a career that makes use of an International Peace studies course it may be helpful to have some of the following skills or experience:
Explore your options here
