P/G DIPLOMA IN INTERNATIONAL PEACEBUILDING, SECURITY AND DEVELOPMENT PRACTICE

Program Overview

The P/G Diploma in International Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice at Maynooth University equips students with the knowledge and skills to work in development and peacebuilding in conflict or post-conflict environments. It adopts a comprehensive approach to the interconnectedness of peacebuilding, security, and development, preparing graduates for careers in international development and peacebuilding NGOs, security organizations, and international organizations. The program offers a flexible approach with a combination of on-campus and online learning, and utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student progress.

Program Outline

Analysis of P/G Diploma in International Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice (Full Time) at Maynooth University

Degree Overview:

This postgraduate diploma program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in various fields related to development and peacebuilding in conflict or post-conflict environments. It adopts a comprehensive approach to the interconnectedness of peacebuilding, security, and development.

Objectives:

• To provide students with a deep understanding of violent conflict and its impact on human security and development.
• To equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement integrated and comprehensive approaches to peacebuilding and development in complex situations.
• To enhance students' negotiation and participatory development skills, allowing them to engage communities in reaching agreements.
• To provide students with knowledge of international institutional frameworks and best practices related to interventions in violent conflict.
• To equip students with research skills applicable to the fields of peacebuilding, security, and development.

Program Description:

• The program integrates negotiation skills with analysis of broader conflict and development issues.
• It explores the role of government, business, and civil society in participatory peace processes.
• It addresses issues related to gender, conflict, racism, and human rights.
• It examines the security concerns arising from poverty, exploitation, and global economic crises.
• It draws on insights from peace education, human security, and community development processes.
• It challenges top-down imposed solutions and emphasizes participatory, community-led processes of change.

Outline:

• The program consists of 60 ECTS credits.
• Learners must complete four compulsory modules (35 credits):
• Introduction to Peace Processes and Conflict Intervention
• Theory and Practice of Mediation, Negotiation and Dialogue in Peace-building
• Conflict, Development and Security
• Research Methods
• Learners choose one of the following modules (10 credits):
• Introduction to Development Theory and Practice
• Contemporary Global Issues, Challenges and Responses
• Learners select elective modules (15 credits) from areas such as participatory development and leadership, environment and development, managing development organizations, and gender, identity and inclusion.

Delivery Options:

• The program offers a flexible approach with a combination of on-campus and online learning.
• Online learning allows students to study at their own pace and includes face-to-face interaction, structured materials, and online discussions.

Assessment:

• The program utilizes various assessment methods, including:
• Essays
• Presentations
• Group projects
• Examinations
• Research papers

Teaching:

• The program adopts a learner-centered, participatory, and flexible approach to learning.
• The diverse group of learners creates a unique learning environment.
• Experienced academic staff with expertise in development, peacekeeping/peacemaking, and security provide instruction.

Careers:

• The program prepares graduates for careers in:
• International development and peacebuilding NGOs
• Security organizations
• International organizations (UN, EU, World Bank)
• Government agencies and departments
• The program benefits early career professionals and those already working in relevant fields who wish to upskill and integrate an international conflict, security, and development dimension into their practice.

Other:

• The program welcomes students from various backgrounds, including those with professional experience in development-related fields.
• The Department of International Development has a strong research focus, and students have the opportunity to engage in research activities.
• The program offers opportunities for networking and collaboration with professionals in the field of peacebuilding, security, and development.