Master’s of Arts (M.A) degree in Peace and Conflict Studies

Introduction
The Master’s of Arts (M.A) degree in Peace and Conflict Studies under the department of Political Science and Strategic Studies is designed for learners interested in acquiring advanced wide-range knowledge, action-oriented skills, tools and techniques necessary to become professionals, researchers and practitioners in peace one equipped with advanced skills in conflict resolution at local, national, regional and global level. In addition to this, the program provides analytic tools and empirical insights to understand the multifaceted challenges associated with war and conflict. This program combines advanced training in research methods and techniques with professionals and practitioner perspectives to equip students for future careers in government, international organizations, or academia. This program is suited for students who desire to combine rigorous analysis with real-world perspectives on some of the most complex challenges facing states and the wider international community for effective interventions.
Beyond foundational knowledge, the program offers critical analytical tools and empirical insights that allow graduates of the field to engage with the complicated and varied challenges that arise in as a result of war and conflicts. The program’s curriculum integrates advanced training in research methodologies and techniques, combining them with real-world perspectives from experienced professionals and practitioners. As a result, graduates are prepared for careers in government, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, or academia, where they can apply both rigorous theoretical analysis and pragmatic, action-oriented solutions to some of the most urgent issues confronting the global community today.
In line with the growing demand for accessible and flexible education, this action plan has been developed to guide the launch of the M.A. program through an online platform. It provides a detailed framework for the program’s implementation, outlining essential steps, objectives, personnel responsibilities, timelines, and budgetary requirements. This action plan ensures a holistic approach to developing and delivering the program, encompassing academic innovation, professional development, research initiatives, community engagement, curriculum design, platform integration, and the overall delivery of the program. Specifically, this action plan is prepared and includes several activities for launching of M.A program in online platform. It ensures a comprehensive approach to academic development, professional growth, research work, community service, market analysis, curriculum development, platform integration, and program delivery. By adhering to this action plan, the department not only aims to successfully launch and manage the online delivery of the M.A. program but also strives to position itself at the forefront of online education. The ultimate goal is to empower learners, providing them with the tools and knowledge to achieve their professional aspirations while contributing meaningfully to the fields of peace, conflict resolution, and international cooperation.
Deliverable: action plan M.A in peace and conflict studies to online program
Total budget for activities: 1,881,500 birr ETB
Time frame: starting March, 2025 –July 2025

Program’s Rationale
The development and launching M.A program in peace and conflict studies to online delivery system is a distinctive opportunity to deepen, widen and expanding understanding about peace, conflict transformation and peace building through online delivery and innovative strategies. Hence, it provides a suitable online platform to deliver the program to equipped learners, participants and students to explore all facets of peace and conflict through deep analytical tool, research and firsthand insight. The M.A in Peace and Conflict Studies at Mekelle University is designed to address the pressing need for skilled professionals in conflict resolution and peace building, particularly in the Horn of Africa and Ethiopia. This region has experienced persistent conflicts, with deep-rooted political, ethnic, and resource-based tensions. There is a critical demand for trained experts who can analyze, mediate, and transform these conflicts into opportunities for peace and stability. Mekelle University, strategically located in this conflict-prone region, is well-positioned to offer a program that combines global perspectives with local context, equipping students with both theoretical and practical tools for conflict resolution and peace building.
Why Online M.A in Peace and Conflict Studies
The Department of Political Science and Strategic Studies has been offering the program for over a decade in a traditional in-person format. However, with the rise of emerging technologies and platforms, relying solely on this conventional approach to higher education can present significant barriers for prospective students, especially those in remote or conflict-affected areas.By offering this program online, Mekelle University can overcome these challenges and expand access to quality education for a broader range of students, especially those from conflict zones or regions with limited access to higher education institutions.
The online format ensures that students, regardless of their location, can engage with the program, attend classes, and access resources without needing to relocate or face the logistical and financial barriers associated with on-campus learning. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals, peace practitioners, and individuals in regions experiencing instability who might otherwise be unable to pursue advanced studies in peace and conflict resolution. Moreover, the online platform fosters a diverse and global learning environment where students from various backgrounds and contexts can collaborate, share experiences, and learn from one another.
Mekelle University is uniquely positioned to offer this program due to its deep understanding of local dynamics, combined with global expertise in peace studies. By leveraging online technologies, the university can provide an interdisciplinary curriculum that blends international perspectives with a contextual focus on the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia, and the broader African continent. This approach ensures that students are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to engage effectively in conflict analysis, transformation, and peace building in their respective regions. Thus, the online delivery of the MA in Peace and Conflict Studies offers a vital opportunity to expand access to higher education, develop a skilled workforce in conflict resolution, and empower individuals to contribute to peace and security efforts in a region that faces significant challenges to stability and development. Generally, offering an MA program online in Peace and Conflict Studies will provide the following advantages for both learners and instructors:

• Flexibility: Offering a graduate degree online allows learners to earn their degree by simply logging into their online account, unlike on-campus programs that necessitate physical attendance. This flexibility enables students to pursue their education while balancing other important aspects of their lives. Earning a master’s degree online provides the advantage of attending lectures, submitting assignments, and taking exams according to a personalized schedule. With the option to take as many or as few courses as desired, students can progress at a pace that best suits their individual needs.
• Accessibility: “Study anywhere, anytime” is a crucial benefit for both learners and instructors who face challenges such as frequent travel, health issues, work commitments, or other obstacles that make attending traditional university campuses difficult. This flexibility enables learners to study from home, work, or any location of their choice, eliminating the need for relocation. The convenience of earning a master’s degree online allows students to pursue their education without the requirement of moving to campus, offering a seamless and adaptable learning experience.
• Earn quality education: An accredited online program upholds high standards of quality education, ensuring that learners receive a rigorous and valuable learning experience. Online education fosters an environment where students can develop critical thinking skills, enhance their knowledge, and achieve positive outcomes. This approach empowers learners to engage deeply with the material, while providing the flexibility to succeed in a setting that suits their needs.
• Save time: It is widely acknowledged that time is a valuable and limited resource. Online programs offer learners the advantage of saving time compared to traditional on-campus education. With no need for registration lines, commuting, or traveling to campus, students can focus more on their studies and other commitments. By enrolling in an online program, learners can significantly reduce time spent on logistical challenges, maximizing their productivity and efficiency.
• Cost effectiveness: Compared to traditional on-campus graduate programs, online programs offer a cost-effective alternative. Without the need to live on campus or incur additional expenses like commuting, housing, and meals, learners can save significantly. Despite these savings, the quality of education and dedication to academic excellence remain uncompromised, allowing students to pursue their degree without sacrificing value or financial stability.
• Networking and partnership opportunities: Online programs create an ideal environment for expanding and developing partnerships with stakeholders. Additionally, they offer a wide range of networking opportunities that might not be as easily accessible in traditional degree programs. By connecting with peers, faculty, and industry professionals from diverse locations, learners can broaden their professional network and gain valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration
• Technology and skill development: Online programs play a crucial role in enhancing technological proficiency and developing digital literacy. They offer a variety of opportunities to engage with different online learning platforms and acquire new technical skills. Beyond that, online education supports personal growth by allowing learners to tailor their experience to their own needs and preferences, fostering a more individualized and flexible approach to learning. This personalization helps students not only gain academic knowledge but also cultivate valuable skills for the digital age.

In summary, launching an online program offers numerous advantages, including expanding educational opportunities, ensuring high-quality delivery supported by advanced online technology, and broadening regional and international engagement in fields like peace and conflict studies. Additionally, it contributes to enhancing institutional reputations by providing flexible, accessible learning options that attract a global student base.