Course summary
The MA in Peace Studies is a unique programme, offering a rare opportunity in the English-speaking world to focus on the critical skills and insights needed to promote global peace. This course is designed for those who want to make a difference in a changing world by understanding what true global peace means and how it can be achieved in our modern, complex society. Throughout the programme, students explore what makes for lasting peace, diving into topics like peacefulness and social justice. The course examines the impact of inequality, political systems, and environmental challenges on peace. With these insights, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of why peace requires more than just the absence of conflict. Instead, true peace demands holistic well-being, or supporting the needs of people in all aspects of life, as well as good governance that reflects fairness, transparency, and respect for all communities. Another core part of the programme is the focus on ecological integrity. Climate change, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation are major challenges in the pursuit of peace today. This course helps you understand how protecting our natural world plays a role in creating stability and reducing conflict. By learning about the positive conceptions of peace, you’ll be equipped to approach peacebuilding in innovative ways, keeping social and environmental needs in balance. The global nature of building peace is another essential part of this course. Peacebuilding isn’t limited to any one region or group but involves learning from different cultures and communities worldwide. With this knowledge, students become aware of how peace efforts are linked, from local community projects to international agreements. In this programme, you’ll study how peace and stability are built in complex and dynamic contexts. Modern conflicts are rarely simple; they are deeply rooted in history, politics, and identity. Understanding these elements is essential for anyone interested in resolving disputes and supporting communities to move forward. You will be introduced to methods that have been used successfully in diverse settings, helping you develop the skills needed for meaningful work in peace and development fields. This MA course provides a valuable foundation for careers in international relations, community work, government, and many areas that require a knowledge of global peace and social justice. With dedicated support from our experienced faculty, this programme allows you to gain both the knowledge and confidence to engage with the complex challenges facing our world.
Modules
The programme is tailored to meet students’ personal and professional aspirations, encouraging in-depth research across various fields, including dialogue studies, well-being, historical trauma and collective healing, conflict transformation, spirituality, harmony, ecology, and global citizenship. Students develop critical skills to analyse and make meaningful contributions to issues they care about, whether in public policy, grassroots organisations, or international peace initiatives. The course culminates in a final Dissertation, where students integrate their learning to demonstrate their understanding and apply their research skills to a significant topic in peace studies. Compulsory Positive Peace: Theory and Practice (30 credits) Peace from the Perspectives of Well-Being: Theory and Practice (30 credits) MA Dissertation (Peace Studies) (60 credits) Optional Ecology and Spirituality (30 credits) Harmony: Theory and Practice (30 credits) Empowerment and Leadership (30 credits) Contesting Social & Historical Narratives (30 credits) Culture, Identity, & Dialogue (30 credits)
Assessment method
Essays, Group projects, Dissertation
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
How to apply
International applicants
Visa and funding requirements If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa. For courses of more than six months’ duration you will require a Student visa. International students who require a Student visa should apply for our full-time courses as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. For full information read our visa application and guides. Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.
Entry requirements
2:2 honours degree or UWTSD recognised equivalent. Alternative entry routes Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCert). This is the first part of the full Master’s degree. Once you have successfully completed your PGCert studies, you will be eligible to progress for the remainder of the Master’s degree. These are ideal routes if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied this subject, or if you did not achieve the grades you need for a place on this degree.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in each of the sub-tests. We also accept other English language tests.
Acceptable Evidence of English
https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/apply/international-applications/english-language-requirements
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £6800 | Whole course |
Northern Ireland | £6800 | Whole course |
Scotland | £6800 | Whole course |
Wales | £6800 | Whole course |
Channel Islands | £6800 | Whole course |
Republic of Ireland | £6800 | Whole course |
EU | £10500 | Whole course |
International | £10500 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
College Road
Carmarthen
SA31 3EP