Political ScienceThis field is dedicated to the study of political violence – armed conflict both within and across state borders – and to the study of politics in the shadow of violence. We seek to understand the causes of armed conflict and violence, the conduct and consequences of the use of violence and coercion by state and non-state actors, and the conditions under which the peace and security of states, societies, groups and individuals can be protected. Toward these ends, we examine the policies and strategies used by states and other political agents – both domestic and international – to control, manage, contain or prevent the use of political violence.
First Field
Coursework
- POLSCI 760S Core in Security, Peace and Conflict
- POLSCI 763S Foundational Scholarship in IR
- 2 courses selected from the Security, Peace & Conflict course listing
- 1 of the 2 courses must focus primarily on security, peace and conflict between or among international actors
- 1 of the 2 courses must focus primarily on security, peace and conflict between international actors and subnational or transnational actors, or among subnational and transnational actors
Preliminary examination
All students must complete a preliminary examination at the end of their second year which consists of a second year paper and an oral defense. The second year paper must be submitted to the student’s preliminary exam committee and the DGS by May 1st and the oral examination must be completed by May 15th. Students should speak with the field chair and their primary advisor(s) well in advance of these deadlines to ensure a shared understanding of what is expected.
Second Field
- POLSCI 760S Core in Security, Peace and Conflict
- 3 courses selected from the Security, Peace & Conflict course listing
- At least 1 of the 3 courses must focus primarily on security, peace and conflict between or among international actors
- At least 1 of the 3 courses must focus primarily on security, peace and conflict between international actors and subnational or transnational actors, or among subnational and transnational actors