MSc Violence, Conflict and Development

Who is this programme for?:

Who gains from situations of conflict? In what ways can violence affect development? What are the challenges to post-conflict reconstruction? This pioneering programme explores the complex links between violent conflict and development, both historically and today.

Why study MSc Violence, Conflict and Development?

• The degree has been developed to meet the needs of people working, or hoping to work, in international agencies, humanitarian organisations, and NGOs.
• Academics teaching on this programme are research-active and have links to international organisations and NGOs operating in conflict areas.
• As a student, you will be trained to apply empirical methods and analytical skills to accurately determine the effects of violence.
• You will be able to choose from a broad range of optional modules ­– so you can tailor your degree to your own interests and aspirations.

What will you study?

This programme examines the analytical, political and policy relationships between violence, conflict and development. The core module addresses empirical trends, difficulties of data collection and the importance of categorisation and boundaries to matters of violence. It goes on to present foundational theories on conflict and violence, including gender perspectives, debates about the origins of human violence (anthropological, historical, psychological sources of violence) and the role of violence in historical change.

The focus then shifts to the means, mechanisms and markers of violence, including themes related to boundaries, war economies, inequality, land and the environment. This provides the basis for analysing interventions in violent conflict including humanitarian aid, conflict resolution and reconstruction.

Who should apply?

We welcome those who have worked in the field of development and/or conflict, but we also accept applications from students without relevant work experience who can demonstrate a strong interest in the major themes of the programme and a strong first degree, preferably in a social science.

Employment

MSc Violence, Conflict & Development postgraduate students leave SOAS with a portfolio of widely transferable skills which employers seek. These include analytical skills, the ability to think laterally and employ critical reasoning, and knowing how to present materials and ideas effectively both orally and in writing. A postgraduate degree is a valuable experience that provides students with a body of work and a diverse range of skills that they can use to market themselves with when they graduate. Graduates from MSc Violence, Conflict & Development have gone on to work in a range of different organisations, including Development and Human Rights Organisations, and many have continued in the field of research.