Mass Atrocity and Genocide Prevention (Graduate Certificate)

Who should apply?

Our students come to the Carter School to learn from the leaders in peace and conflict resolution. We teach our students to identify the underlying causes of conflict and equip them with the cutting-edge theory and practical skills to put their knowledge into action, whether that be at the local, national, or global level. We also impart a thorough understanding of the values that underly these practices. We understand that “how” is as important as “why.”

Our world-recognized faculty are committed to innovative teaching and cutting-edge research, moving the educational experience beyond the classroom. Students gain skills and experience through service and experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for meaningful careers. You can find our graduates in academia, government agencies, international peacebuilding, and the private sector.

Why choose George Mason?

• Mason’s Conflict Analysis and Resolution program is the largest in the world.
• This program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis, with up to six years from the time of first enrollment to complete the degree.
• The program is fully online.
• Online classes accommodate those who work full time or live remotely.
• Curriculum allows our students to pursue their interests.
• Our faculty members are among the leading experts in the field of conflict analysis and resolution.

Required Courses

• CONF 501 Introduction to Conflict Analysis and Resolution 3
• CONF 625 Engaging Conflict3
• CONF 654 Mass Atrocity: Early Warning and Prevention3

Select two courses from the following: 6

• CONF 706 Ethics and Conflict
• CONF 707 Gender and Violence
• CONF 708 Identity and Conflict
• CONF 721 Conflict and Race
• CONF 733 Law and Justice from a Conflict Perspective
• CONF 751 Dynamics of Civil Wars*

In the course listing above, asterisks denote new courses.

COST

• No Enrollment Deposit Required
• Contemporary Dispute Resolution Certificate Program (online)**
• In State: $572.00; Out 0f State: $817.00; Mandatory Student Fee: $155.00

** Mandatory Student Fee only applies to In State Students

CAREERS

Conflict resolution alum apply their degrees very broadly as they tackle the many different complex problems we face today.

Since conflict is present in every field and all job sectors, our students have the flexibility to be employed across a wide spectrum or careers. Knowing how to handle disagreement well is a skill. Conflict Resolution students develop problem-solving skills along with interpersonal communication, writing, research, effective team collaboration, and multi-cultural fluency – skills in demand among today’s employers! Besides the development of critical skills, the one thing students in this major have in common is the desire to create positive change in the world – our students tailor their plans of study and alum apply their degrees very broadly as they tackle the many different complex problems we face today.

Examples of Employers and Roles

• NGOs, Non-Profits, Peace Centers/Agencies
• Diplomacy, Security, Federal Agencies, Think Tanks
• Conflict Resolution and Corporations
• Hospitality, Arts, Entertainment, Travel, & Culture
• Peace, Youth, and Education
• Banking, Financial, Insurance, Real Estate
• PeaceTech
• Working Local
• Counseling, Health, & Well-Being
• Courts, Corrections, & Law Enforcement

Skills Most Valued by Employers

• Communication skills (written and verbal)
• Critical thinking/problem solving
• Digital technology
• Teamwork/collaboration
• Leadership
• Professionalism/work ethic
• Global and multicultural fluency

Program contact:

The Carter School Graduate Program Admissions Team, email: tcsinfo@gmu.edu

Program website: https://carterschool.gmu.edu/prospective-students/graduate-certificates/mass-atrocity-and-genocide-prevention-graduate

Department/College contact/website: https://carterschool.gmu.edu/

READY TO APPLY?

All applicants should review Carter School steps to Apply Now. Please follow the Carter School guidelines for International Applicants.

Prerequisites

• Hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a Regionally Accredited US institution or International equivalent evaluated by Mason or a NACES Recognized Agency
• Achieve a minimum GPA of 3.0 in bachelor’s program
• Previous coursework in social sciences and prior work experience are desirable

Application Materials

• Graduate application
• Application fee
• Transcripts of all post-secondary education
• Resume
• 1 letters of recommendation
• Goals statement based on prompt: “Tell us something about how your past experience has prepared you to engage with conflict and how this program will equip you for your future.”
• GRE or other standardized test scores are NOT required

If you have any questions during the application process, please contact the Carter School’s Office of Graduate Admissions at tcsinfo@gmu.edu or (703) 993- 3655.