SIT Graduate Institute

Program Information

Degree Offered

Master's of Arts in Conflict Transformation

Format: Campus

Program Description:

SIT is one of the academic institutions pioneering this field. SIT’s degree in Conflict Transformation is designed to develop students' insights, analytical ability, theoretical knowledge, and practical skills for working with groups of people that are in conflict with other communities. It is unique in its interpersonal as well as systematic approach to the identity-based dynamics of conflict. It focuses on developing holistic responses to conflict in order to transform the relationships and systems that uphold intractable inter-communal conflicts around the world.

Study the theory and practice of conflict transformation;
Examine the dynamics of deep-rooted conflicts;
Explore potential solutions in diverse settings;
Learn from faculty and alumni engaged in peacebuilding activities in critical conflict zones.
SIT’s Conflict Transformation master’s degree program prepares professionals to

Design and lead conflict transformation programs;
Develop conflict prevention and conflict-sensitive interventions;
Create and manage projects that address the causes and consequences of complex and multi-layered conflicts.
Graduates are prepared for positions with nongovernmental organizations, educational institutions, the media, the private sector, the government, international organizations, and other professional venues.

Program Focus
Students develop conflict analysis skills, which are applied to explore and articulate roots, dynamics, and processes of social conflict. They build skills in core practices in:

Negotiation, facilitation, mediation, strategic nonviolence, social healing and reconciliation
Program design, management, and evaluation
Training for capacity-building
Leading inter-communal dialogue
Cultivating positive and inclusive group relations through organizational change
Advocating for human rights and community organizing
Students are aware of their own attitudes, behaviors, impact on others, and role in society. They also understand themselves as members of particular groups and the consequences of such group membership in relation to others in conflict. They are aware of their role and limitations in transforming or mitigating conflict at home and abroad – as a 3rd party in internal and external conflicts, as an intermediary, intervener, program consultant, and self reflective advocate.

Students can introduce and advocate for conflict consciousness and sensitivity within organizations and communities. They might focus on development, inter-group relations, youth programs, humanitarian aid, education, or human rights, all with an eye toward conflict prevention, mitigation, management, resolution, reconciliation, and recovery.

Accreditation:

SIT is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc. (NEASC) through its Commission on Institutions of Higher Education. Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the New England Association should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact: Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, 209 Burlington Road, Bedford, MA 01730-1433, 781-271-0022, cihe@neasc.org.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be considered for admission, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

US bachelor's degree or an equivalent that demonstrates academic ability
Demonstrated English language ability
Intercultural and professional experience
Demonstrated ability to use experience as a source of learning

# of Credits Required:

40

International Student Requirements:

Applicants whose first language is not English and who did not attend an undergraduate institution at which the language of instruction was English must take either the TOEFL or the IELTS. Applicants taking the TOEFL must receive a Minimum score of 550 on the paper-based test or 213 on the computer-based test. For the TOEFL iBT, SIT's operational standard for admission for applicants whose first language is not English and who did not attend an undergraduate institution at which the language of instruction was English is a minimum total score of 79. This includes section scores of at least 24 on the Writing section and 23 on the Speaking section. Applicants taking the IELTS must receive a score of Band 6.0 or higher. These scores are considered the minimum proficiency needed to undertake graduate-level work. Scores must be dated within two years of the start date of your academic program.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

875 USD

Tuition Out of State Full Time:

35000 USD

Financial Aid Offered: Yes