Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies

The books on the bookshelf of a sociology professor at Gustavus Adolphus College.

Be a Part of One of the Oldest Peace Studies Programs in the Country

If you're thinking about entering a Peace and Conflict Studies program as an undergraduate, consider Gustavus. Our Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies (PJCS) Program has a 50-year history of teaching and studying global conflict and peace. We show you how to reduce conflict and respond to immense global challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and political polarization. In this field, you will examine peace as a philosophy and practice. This includes efforts to prevent, respond to, and transform violent conflict; efforts to promote justice and healing; and efforts to promote structural and institutional change. You will graduate prepared to contribute to peace work in diverse career sectors, including international volunteer work, community organizing, non-profit leadership, public health, and more.

Building Real-World Peace and Conflict Skills

  • The PJCS program prioritizes gaining experience by working in the field, with all student majors completing an experiential learning course through an internship or study-away option.
  • This allows you to apply the theoretical concepts learned in the classroom and deepen your knowledge.
  • During this semester of experiential learning, you can participate in peacebuilding activities, collaborate with practitioners, and develop practical skills that are essential for addressing complex challenges in the field.
Students and professors at a Peace Studies Conference

Opportunities in Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies

 

Experiences in Becoming a Peace-Maker

There are many opportunities on campus and in the PJCS program to share ideas and be involved outside the classroom, including numerous events on campus.

 

Study Away — By combining classroom learning with practical experiences through study-away programs, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of peace-building.

Student Organizations — There are several student groups with a mission aligned with the PJCS program, including Model United Nations, the Building Bridges Conference, and the Environmental Action Coalition.

Student Peace Awards — These awards are designed to provide financial support to students who are engaging in off-campus study, internships, or independent projects related to peace, justice, and conflict studies.

Internships, Careers, and Graduate Programs — Explore resources to help you navigate the vast array of opportunities available to put yourself on a path toward a fulfilling career in peace, justice, and conflict resolution.

Campus Events — The PJCS program supports several campus events, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Lecture, the Wallenberg Lecture, and the MAYDAY! Peace Conference. These events provide the campus community with valuable opportunities to engage with experts, explore critical issues, and be inspired to contribute to a more just and peaceful world.

 

Explore Opportunities in Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies

My classroom revolves around the idea of communicating with each other, sharing ideas, and building on them according to negotiation of meaning and value systems. ”
Carlos Mejia Suarez
Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures, Spanish, LALACS, Comparative Literature, Peace Studies, Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies

Building Pathways to Peace from Minnesota to Around the World

The Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies Program at Gustavus Adolphus College is dedicated to providing a comprehensive educational experience that helps you become a well-rounded individual committed to peace-building and social justice work. You will have the flexibility to pursue a double major while being actively involved on campus. Being in Saint Peter, MN, you're minutes away from the medium-sized city of Mankato and an hour from the dynamic Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. So it is easy to launch into a local or national internship, or study abroad.

Contact Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies

Email: peacestudies [at] gustavus.edu (peacestudies[at]gustavus[dot]edu)

Phone: (507) 933-7548

Department Chair: Mimi Gerstbauer

Old Main, 202A
800 West College Avenue
Saint Peter, MN 56082

Reach far. Dig deep.
Go Beyond.