Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding MSc

Durham University

Teaching is centred around the School of Government and International Affairs, a vibrant learning community that is home to multiple research centres, including the Durham Global Security Institute. The MSc is largely delivered via lectures, seminars or tutorial groups, and active learning sessions including discussions, student presentations, Q&A sessions, and role plays. Core modules are built around 300 hours of learning, a large proportion of which is made up of independent reading, preparation, and written assignments. Each module includes a minimum of 20 hours of class contact, which gives you the opportunity to review course material in group discussions. Many optional modules are delivered through an innovative Continuous Professional Development (CPD) format. Run over the course of several days, CPD modules combine small-group tutorials with practical exercises, to demonstrate how the latest research can be applied to real-world situations. The dissertation is an important part of the course. To support you in this, you will be appointed a dissertation supervisor based on a broad match with your dissertation topic. As well as providing dissertation-specific support and guidance, you can also contact your supervisor for general academic support. To keep learning up-to-date and relevant, we place great importance on integrating new and innovative research into the curriculum. In addition, we deliver regular seminars and lectures which are available for all postgraduate students. These events provide opportunities to engage with contemporary issues in political and international studies. Assessment methods vary depending on the modules studied. Most are assessed by essays, with others including examinations, presentations, a reflective journal, reports, article reviews and policy briefs. As the course progresses, we provide ongoing feedback through formative assessments to help you to recognise your strengths as well as identify any areas that may require improvement.  The course culminates in a 12,000-word dissertation which is conducted and written up as an independent piece of work with support from your appointed supervisor. The dissertation is worth one-third of your final mark.