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Top 5 Master’s Degrees in Reconciliation and Mediation in the UK

There are many reasons to study a master in reconciliation. The first reason is that it can help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to peace and reconciliation processes. The second reason is that it can help you gain a better understanding of the causes of conflict and the potential solutions. Another reason is that it can help you build networks with other professionals who are committed to promoting peace and reconciliation. Here are our top picks:

#1 LLM Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (University of Law, UK)

Founded in 1876 and ranked 1st in student satisfaction in the United Kingdom, the University of Law (ULAW) is an excellent choice to study mediation and conflict resolution. The LLM in Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution is available as a full- or part-time study, as well as on-campus or fully online. Lawyers and non-lawyers who want to obtain a Master in Law are eligible to study. However, non-lawyers are required to take a 2-weeks legal course prior to the start of the main curriculum. The LLM is taught by renowned experts, lecturers, and practitioners. Students learn first-hand from their experiences in mediation, dispute resolution, and arbitration techniques and practices. The LLM is strongly practice-oriented and students will take part in engaging in mediation and conflict resolution simulations and scenarios to obtain hands-on skills. Several funding options are available.

#2 Reconciliation (University of Winchester, UK)

The University of Winchester in Winchester, England, United Kingdom, offers a Master of Arts degree in Reconciliation. Students in the program complete a series of core classes that include:     Research Methods and Skills; Understanding the Nature and Causes of Conflict; Theories and Dynamics of Reconciliation; Practice Part: Skills for Reconciliation; Practice Part: Community Building and Reconciliation; Building Networks of Peace; Multi-faith Cooperation on Peacebuilding; and Religion and Development. All classes are completed online, making the program ideal for remote leaners and working adults. Students who choose to study full time can complete the degree requirements within 12 months. A more flexible part-time option is also available and lasts for approximately 24 months. For admission, students must hold a bachelor’s degree in the field or have significant work experience in conflict resolution.

#3 Reconciliation and Peacebuilding (University of Winchester, UK)

The University of Winchester in United Kingdom, also offers a Master of Arts degree in Reconciliation and Peacebuilding. To earn the degree, students take core courses in     Research Methods and Skills, Understanding the Nature and Causes of Conflict, Religion and Peacebuilding, Theories and Dynamics of Reconciliation, and Consultancy as well as electives related to their specific interests. Geared toward distance learners and working professionals, the classes are taught exclusively online. Students can choose between full-time and part-time courses of study. The full-time track takes 12 months to complete while the part-time option lasts for roughly 24 months. Admission into the program requires either a bachelor’s degree in a related field or demonstrated work or volunteer experience related to conflict resolution.

#4 Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation (Trinity College Dublin, UK)

Trinity College Dublin in Ireland, offers a Master of Philosophy degree in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation. Students in the program also have the option to study at the Irish School of Ecumenics, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, or to participate in a week-long in-residence course at the Corrymeela Community Centre for Reconciliation in Ballycastle in Ireland. Among the required courses for the degree are: Reconciliation in Northern Ireland; Conflict Transformation; Foundations of Conflict Resolution Research; Transitional Justice; Contemporary Conflict and Peacemaking: Global Perspectives; Mediation and Conflict Analysis Skills; and Community Learning and Reflective Practice. Students also complete independent research and compose a master’s thesis dissertation based on their work. The program is available as a 12-month full-time and 24-month part-time course of study.

#5 Justice and Reconciliation (Luther Seminary, UK)

Luther Seminary in St Johnsbury, Vermont, United States, offers a Master of Divinity degree in Justice and Reconciliation. The program is intended for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in divinity and requires not only letters of recommendation and a history of academic excellence but also a written statement of faith for admission. All students in the program complete a core course in Justice and Reconciliation. Then, they select five additional concentration courses related to their areas of interest. These courses cover various biblical, theological and ecumenical perspectives as well as sociology and philosophy. A master’s thesis based on independent research is also required for the degree. Courses are presented through a mix of traditional in-person instructor-led formats and online delivery.

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