The School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution
Advancing Theory, Working for Change
The School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution (S-CAR) is the preeminent academic and practice organization in its field. S-CAR is committed to the development of theory, research, and practice that interrupt cycles of violence and promote peacebuilding. Created in 1982, as a Center and later known as an Institute, it pulls together multi-disciplinary structure. It began offering M.S. degrees in Conflict Management in 1982, followed by Ph.D. degrees in 1988. The programs have since transitioned to degrees in Conflict Analysis and Resolution. We launched a series of five graduate certificate programs in 2006 and a B.A., B.S. and Minor in Conflict Analysis and Resolution in 2004. In addition to traditional degrees, S-CAR administers a Masters International degree with the Peace Corps, a dual degree program with Mason’s Master’s in Social Work, and a dual degree program with the University of Malta (UOM), allowing students to receive both our M.S. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution and Mediterranean Security from UOM through an intensive 14-month program located in Valletta, Malta.
With over 550 active students, we are not only the largest conflict resolution program in the world, but the only program offering all levels of higher education degrees. Our over 850 alumni, connected through a lively network in all continents, are working globally on the spectrum of conflict, from the interpersonal to the international level. We have at least 70 Ph.D. alumni who are working in academia, many directing or initiating conflict resolution programs at other universities. As one of only two Ph.D. programs in conflict resolution in the country our Ph.D. graduates are in high demand to support the continued growth and dispersion of this emerging academic field.
S-CAR carries out its teaching and practice activities at three locations, the Arlington Campus which houses the graduate programs, the Fairfax Campus with the undergraduate program, and our research and retreat center Point of View, located in Mason Neck. We currently house four centers, the Center for the Study of Gender and Conflict, Center for Peace Making Practices, the Center for the Study of Narrative and Conflict Resolution(CNCR), and the Center for World Religions, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution(CRDC); and many programs.
S-CAR’s research and practice engagements are wide ranging. Highlights of current initiatives includes:
Genocide Prevention Program: workshops, training, and coalition building with government officials around the world.
Sudan Project: capacity building and problem solving workshops with the multiple actors engaged in conflict with the government of Sudan.
Insight Conflict Resolution Program: developing deep-rooted applied conflict resolution theory for mediation and other forms of conflict analysis and resolution.
History, Memory, and Conflict Program: explore how formulations of memories and histories contributes to conflict and conflict resolution.
Experiential Learning Project: travel courses to engage with conflicts in Turkey/Syria, Israel/Palestine, Egypt, Colombia, Indonesia, and the Caucasus.
Benjamin Franklin Summer Institute: leadership training and exchange for teenagers from Central Asia and the U.S.
Caucasus Project: problem solving workshops for participants in the ethnic conflicts in the Caucasus.
Please visit our Research & Practice site for additional conflict analysis and resolution related initiatives.