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TAPRI

Tampere Peace Research Institute

Study Programme in Peace, Mediation and Conflict Research (PEACE)

Ranked as a top-10 degree in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding by The Peacekeeper in 2017, the PEACE programme provides a multi- and interdisciplinary approach to peace and conflict research.

The programme facilitates the understanding of the complex nature of wars and conflicts as well as their short- and long-term consequences. It focuses not only on the study of conflict but primarily on its transformation and on the conditions for peaceful change. For example, it examines, how violent conflicts, ethnic and religious discrimination and human rights violations produce forced displacement and how different actors can respond to these crisis situations.

Furthermore, the programme also deals with the role of the environment and natural resources in conflict and peacebuilding. Students learn about the preconditions for conflict resolution and sustainable peace in local as well as international and global contexts. Special emphasis is given to various tools and phases of conflict transformation — peacebuilding, mediation, reconciliation and dialogue.

In sum, more than just the study of conflict dynamics, the emphasis of the programme lies on the transformation of violent conflicts to achieve sustainable peace. Along with the Nordic tradition of peace research, the programme aims to take a holistic as well as a normative approach.

Programme Structure and Curriculum

The Master’s Degree Programme in Peace, Mediation and Conflict Research is a two-year full-time study programme. The first year focuses on the introduction to the multidisciplinary nature of peace and conflict research. During the second year, students gain a deeper understanding of their specific research interests as they participate in thesis seminars and concentrate on writing their Master’s thesis under the guidance of their personal thesis supervisor. A great deal of flexibility is allowed when making the personal study plan and there is also the possibility to complete an optional internship. For more information, here is a detailed curriculum of the programme.

The PEACE programme is offered at one of the world’s top-listed universities for its academic excellence and research, Tampere University. I have enjoyed the programme’s curriculum and high-level teaching coupled with opportunities to learn from real-life experiences of mediators in the field – Shekeba, Afghanistan, Current PEACE student 

Hosted by TAPRI

The programme is hosted by the Tampere Peace Research Institute (TAPRI), which is internationally acknowledged for its high-quality research since its founding in 1969. The curriculum and teaching of the programme is directly linked with the research conducted in TAPRI. The researchers of the institute are specialized in various research topics such as identity politics, peace mediation, nationalism, history, international relations and security, human mobility, peacebuilding, gender, and the role of the environment in conflict. 

This close contact with the research community of the Institute not only guarantees the high level of teaching but also allows the students to have supervision and dialog with the experts of the field and, perhaps, to consider a research career for themselves. Moreover, visiting guest speakers regularly bring perspectives from the professional world of peacebuilding and mediation, giving students the opportunity to engage with practitioners. 

Collaborations

The PEACE programme is located within the Faculty of Social Sciences of Tampere University. It is an international degree programme under the Global Society Framework of the Faculty, but cooperates with a similar programme of Åbo Akademi University in Vaasa, where it is possible for students to take courses in developmental psychology. 

Inspiring Learning Environment

Like the teaching staff, the students of the PEACE programme also have a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds. In addition, they come from different parts of the world, thus making the studies an enriching intercultural experience for all. Students benefit from the close relations between the programme and the research institute, as this ensures that there is an effective and supportive learning environment. Interactive modes of teaching, which are emphasized in the programme, as well as the independent nature of Master’s Degree-level education in Finland, are strengths which will aid the students to adapt to research and future employment. 

Coming from a history studies background, I was looking for a master’s programme in which I could use my interest in history and conflict and apply it to more contemporary topics. I ended up choosing this programme for its focus on, and broad understanding of, sustainable peace in the context of international relations – Youri, the Netherlands, Current PEACE student  

Future Pathways

The programme prepares students for both doctoral studies as well as for professional activity in various tasks in society, ranging from interpersonal relationships to international conflict situations. For instance, graduates could proceed to have careers as researchers, analysts, consultants or political advisors in government agencies, international organisations, research institutes or NGOs. It is also possible for students to continue to do a PhD with TAPRI after their Master’s degree. You can find out more about the possible career pathways through the stories of PEACE alumni. 

Admission

More information on admission can be found at Tampere University’s website.