We believe that even the world’s most destructive conflicts can be resolved to create a more peaceful future. With a bachelor’s degree in conflict resolution from Portland State University, you will be able to participate and contribute to this important work locally and globally.
As a conflict resolution major, you will learn to analyze conflict, uncovering the underpinnings of conflict dynamics in a wide variety of settings and scales. You will develop perspectives and gain skills to defuse and deescalate destructive conflicts that arise among individuals, groups and countries.
The courses in the program encompass the practical and theoretical bases of mediation, negotiation and an array of peace-enhancing perspectives and strategies. The program includes research, theory, and competency-based education focusing on building the necessary personal, social and institutional conditions necessary for positive peace, conflict transformation (from destructive to constructive), and universal respect for context-sensitive human rights. Students are encouraged to pursue their own particular interests in the study of conflict resolution.
PSU’s conflict resolution program introduces you to peacebuilding and dispute methods drawn from psychology, communications theory, philosophy, and even "improv." With seasoned faculty, you will explore culturally sensitive and diverse approaches to engaging and transforming conflict.
Our faculty work closely with community partners and international organizations as consultants, board members, and trainers in conflict resolution strategies. They bring their real-world experience into your classes.
In your courses, you will gain the fundamentals of conflict resolution practice and research, including fieldwork. You will also gain skills in areas like nonviolence, bystander intervention, and social organizing. Campus organizations, like Students United for Nonviolence, provide you with opportunities to engage with the university and the Portland metro area.
Our students graduate ready to solve real-world conflict. You will have the sensitivity and an innovative, practical toolbox to bring conflict resolution skills into a multitude of careers, from non-profits to government. You will be suited for careers in the field of conflict resolution and prepared to add value in any community setting, occupational field, or workplace by bringing conflict transformation strategies to bear. Undergraduates acquire these skills as they focus on the transformation of conflict for the achievement of peace and social justice at the small group and community level. Our graduates go on to careers in academia, advocacy, nonprofits, federal, state, and local government agencies, social work and community services, international development and policy, primary, secondary, and higher education, and education administration.
A career preparation course open to students majoring and minoring in Conflict Resolution prepares you to step into the marketplace grounded and confident.