Social Sciences

Bachelor of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies is a four-year interdisciplinary degree programme that equips students with the knowledge and practical skills to understand, analyse, and resolve conflicts at personal, community, national, and international levels. Students study conflict theory, conflict resolution and mediation, peace studies, negotiation, international relations, human rights, post-conflict reconstruction, peacebuilding, gender and conflict, transitional justice, and research methods.

The programme is offered at multiple CUE-accredited universities including the University of Nairobi, Kisii University, and private universities including St. Graduates pursue careers as conflict resolution specialists, mediators, peacebuilding officers, diplomats, human rights officers, NGO programme officers, community peacebuilders, and policy analysts.

The programme is delivered over eight semesters through lectures, seminars, case studies, mediation simulations, and fieldwork. Students engage in conflict analysis, mediation role-plays, peacebuilding project design, and research.

Entry-level salaries for conflict resolution and peace studies graduates in Kenya range from KES 40,000–65,000/month depending on the role and organisation, with higher earnings in international organisations. The programme suits students passionate about peace, justice, and conflict transformation.

Skills RequiredConflict Analysis and AssessmentMediation and NegotiationPeacebuilding and ReconciliationTransitional JusticeHuman Rights AdvocacyInternational Relations and DiplomacyCommunity Dialogue FacilitationResearch Methods in Conflict StudiesGender and Conflict AnalysisPolicy Analysis and AdvocacyKey SubjectsConflict TheoryConflict Resolution and MediationPeace StudiesNegotiationInternational RelationsHuman RightsPost-Conflict ReconstructionTransitional JusticeGender and ConflictResearch MethodsCertificationsMediation Council of Kenya MembershipInternational Association of Conflict Management MembershipUnited Nations Peacekeeping Training CertificationSpecializationsMediation and NegotiationFocus on resolving conflicts through mediation and negotiation — covering mediation theory, negotiation techniques, facilitation, dialogue processes, restorative justice, and the practical skills of conflict resolution at different levels. Peacebuilding and Post-Conflict ReconstructionFocus on building peace after conflict — covering post-conflict reconstruction, transitional justice, disarmament demobilisation and reintegration, peace agreements, and the long-term processes of rebuilding societies.

Transitional Justice and ReconciliationFocus on justice after conflict — covering transitional justice mechanisms, truth commissions, reconciliation processes, accountability, and the design of transitional justice frameworks for post-conflict societies.

Duration: 4 years
Public, up to: Ksh 189,004
Private, up to: Ksh 242,800
Job market: Moderate

The programme

What you study, how long it takes, and how it is delivered.

Practicalities

Study mode: Full-time
Attachment: 3 months
Average class: 35 students
Award: Bachelor

What you study

10 subjects

Conflict Theory
Conflict Resolution and Mediation
Peace Studies
Negotiation
International Relations
Human Rights
Post-Conflict Reconstruction
Transitional Justice
Gender and Conflict
Research Methods

Modules

12 in the programme

Introduction to Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies
Year 1Semester 13 creditsCore
Foundational introduction to conflict resolution and peace studies — covering concepts of conflict, peace, violence, and peacebuilding, theories of conflict, and the development of conflict resolut...
Conflict Theory and Analysis
Year 1Semester 13 creditsCore
Theoretical frameworks for understanding conflict — covering conflict theory, conflict analysis frameworks, conflict mapping, causes and dynamics of conflict, and the application of theory to speci...
Mediation and Negotiation
Year 2Semester 13 creditsCore
Practical conflict resolution skills — covering mediation theory, negotiation techniques, facilitation, dialogue processes, restorative justice, and the practical skills of mediation and negotiatio...
International Relations and Conflict
Year 2Semester 13 creditsCore
International dimensions of conflict — covering international relations theory, the international system, causes of international conflict, the role of international organisations, and diplomatic a...
Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law
Year 2Semester 23 creditsCore
Human rights in conflict contexts — covering human rights theory, international humanitarian law, the Geneva Conventions, human rights advocacy, and the protection of civilians in conflict situations.
Peacebuilding and Post-Conflict Reconstruction
Year 2Semester 23 creditsCore
Building peace after conflict — covering post-conflict reconstruction, transitional justice, disarmament demobilisation and reintegration, peace agreements, and the long-term processes of rebuildin...
Transitional Justice and Reconciliation
Year 3Semester 13 creditsCore
Justice after conflict — covering transitional justice mechanisms, truth commissions, reconciliation processes, accountability, and the design of transitional justice frameworks for post-conflict s...
Gender and Conflict
Year 3Semester 13 creditsCore
Gender dimensions of conflict and peacebuilding — covering gender-based violence in conflict, women's participation in peace processes, gender-sensitive peacebuilding, and the integration of gender...
Research Methods in Conflict Studies
Year 3Semester 23 creditsCore
Research methodology for conflict and peace studies — covering quantitative and qualitative research, conflict assessment methods, case study research, and the application of research methods to co...
African Conflicts and Regional Peacebuilding
Year 3Semester 23 creditsCore
Conflicts in Africa and regional responses — covering specific African conflicts, the role of the African Union and regional economic communities, peacekeeping in Africa, and regional peacebuilding...
Community Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation
Year 4Semester 13 creditsCore
Community-level peacebuilding — covering community dialogue, local peace committees, conflict transformation, traditional dispute resolution, and grassroots peacebuilding initiatives.
Research Project or Peacebuilding Internship
Year 4Semester 26 creditsCore
Final-year research project or peacebuilding internship — demonstrating mastery of conflict resolution and peace studies theory and practice through original research or a structured peacebuilding ...

Specialisations

Mediation and Negotiation
Focus on resolving conflicts through mediation and negotiation — covering mediation theory, negotiation techniques, facilitation, dialogue processes, restorative justice, and the practical skills of conflict resolution at different levels.
Peacebuilding and Post-Conflict Reconstruction
Focus on building peace after conflict — covering post-conflict reconstruction, transitional justice, disarmament demobilisation and reintegration, peace agreements, and the long-term processes of rebuilding societies.
Transitional Justice and Reconciliation
Focus on justice after conflict — covering transitional justice mechanisms, truth commissions, reconciliation processes, accountability, and the design of transitional justice frameworks for post-conflict societies.
International Conflict and Diplomacy
Focus on international dimensions of conflict — covering international relations theory, diplomacy, international organisations, conflict prevention, and the role of states and international bodies in conflict resolution.
Human Rights and Conflict
Focus on human rights in conflict contexts — covering human rights theory, international humanitarian law, human rights advocacy, and the protection of civilians in conflict situations.
Community Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation
Focus on community-level peacebuilding — covering community dialogue, local peace committees, conflict transformation, traditional dispute resolution, and grassroots peacebuilding initiatives.

A day as a student

A typical day combines morning lectures on conflict theory, mediation, or international law with afternoon seminars, case studies, and mediation simulations. Students engage in conflict analysis exercises, negotiation role-plays, peacebuilding project design, and research. Field attachments in peacebuilding organisations, government agencies, or community mediation programmes provide hands-on experience, with students conducting conflict assessments, facilitating dialogue, and designing peace interventions. Research papers and policy briefs are regular assignments.

The trade offs

In its favour

Interdisciplinary programme — the programme draws from political science, law, sociology, and international relations, providing graduates with versatile analytical skills.
Kenya's regional peacebuilding role — Kenya's involvement in regional peace processes and the presence of international organisations in Nairobi create employment opportunities.
Multiple university options — the programme is offered at several CUE-accredited universities, giving students choice in cost, location, and study mode.
Practical skills — the programme includes mediation simulations, conflict analysis exercises, and fieldwork, giving graduates practical conflict resolution skills.

Against it

Niche career field — while demand exists, the peace and conflict field is smaller than broader social science fields, with fewer entry-level positions.
Many positions require experience — international peacebuilding positions often require field experience, making it challenging for fresh graduates to access senior roles.
Variable programme quality — quality varies across universities, with some having better practical training and industry connections than others.

What it costs

Tuition at both ends of the market, and how to pay for it.

What it costs, and where

Against 241 social sciences courses

Public153k to 189k

153k at Kenyatta University189k at University of Nairobi

Private105k to 243k

105k at Mount Kenya University243k at Daystar University

Annual tuition in Kenyan shillings, rounded. The upright tick is the median for this field, so a bar sitting entirely to its right is an expensive programme by the standards of its own subject.

The fine print

Verified educationnewshub KUCCPS 2026/27: KU 153K, UoN 189K, MKU 105K, Daystar 243K/yr

Students can access HELB loans, university internal scholarships, and county government bursaries. Some international peacebuilding organisations offer sponsorships for students committed to conflict resolution and peacebuilding work.

Funding options

HELB Undergraduate Loan
University Scholarships and Bursaries
County Government Bursaries

Scholarships

5 recorded

Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) Loan
LoanKsh 60,000Kenyan
Needy Kenyan students enrolled in accredited university programmes.
County Government Bursaries
BursaryKenyan
Residents of respective counties pursuing undergraduate studies
Huawei Seeds for the Future Kenya
Scholarship
Talented ICT/STEM university students with a GPA of 3.0+
Generation Google Scholarship
Scholarship
Women in computer science and related technical fields
International Peacebuilding Organisation Sponsorships
ScholarshipKsh 80,000Kenyan
Sponsorships from international peacebuilding organisations for students committed to conflict resolution and peacebuilding work.

Getting in

The grades, the alternatives, and who accredits the award.

What you need

KCSE mean grade: C+
Alternative entry: KCSE mean grade C+ or equivalent, or KACE with two principal passes, or Diploma in a related field from a recognised institution, or a degree from a recognised university.

How you are assessed

4 components

Continuous Assessment Tests
Coursework25% of the mark
Written tests covering conflict theory, international law, human rights, and peacebuilding — assessed through mid-semester and end-of-semester examinations.
Case Studies and Mediation Simulations
Coursework30% of the mark
Conflict analysis case studies, mediation simulations, negotiation exercises, peacebuilding project design, and policy briefs — assessed through portfolio review and practical evaluation.
Field Attachment Reports
Coursework20% of the mark
Reports from field attachments in peacebuilding organisations, government agencies, or community mediation programmes — documenting practical experience and professional reflection.
Final Examinations and Research Project
Examination25% of the mark
End-of-semester written examinations and a final-year research project or peacebuilding internship demonstrating mastery of conflict resolution and peace studies theory and practice.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) at multiple public and private universities including University of Nairobi, Kisii University, St. Paul's University, Africa Nazarene University, Mount Kenya University, and Daystar University.

Accredited by

Commission for University Education (CUE)
Academic accreditationRequired
Statutory accreditation for all Kenyan universities offering degree programmes. The Bachelor of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies is CUE-accredited at University of Nairobi, Kisii University, St. Paul's University, Africa Nazarene University, Mount Kenya University, and Daystar University.

Where it leads

The roles it opens, and what you leave with.

Where graduates go

5 roles

Conflict Resolution Specialist / Mediator
Moderate demandKsh 45,000 to Ksh 70,000
Facilitates conflict resolution and mediation — covering mediation, negotiation, dialogue facilitation, and dispute resolution for community organisations, government agencies, and private practice.
Peacebuilding Officer
Moderate demandKsh 40,000 to Ksh 65,000
Implements peacebuilding programmes — covering community dialogue, conflict transformation, peace education, and reconciliation for NGOs and international organisations.
Human Rights Officer
Moderate demandKsh 40,000 to Ksh 65,000
Monitors and advocates for human rights — covering human rights documentation, advocacy, policy analysis, and human rights education for NGOs and international organisations.
Diplomatic / Foreign Service Officer
Moderate demandKsh 50,000 to Ksh 80,000
Represents Kenya in diplomatic relations — covering diplomatic protocol, international negotiation, consular services, and the promotion of Kenya's interests abroad.
NGO Programme Officer (Peace and Governance)
Moderate demandKsh 45,000 to Ksh 70,000
Manages peace and governance programmes for NGOs — covering programme design, implementation, M&E, community engagement, and reporting for peacebuilding and governance projects.

Graduate outcomes

Graduates work as conflict resolution specialists, mediators, peacebuilding officers, human rights officers, and NGO programme officers — in government, international organisations, NGOs, and community organisations.

Where these fields lead

8 careers

Tools you will learn

Microsoft Office Suite
SoftwarePrimary
Productivity tools including Word for research papers and policy briefs, Excel for conflict data analysis, and PowerPoint for mediation briefings and stakeholder presentations.
SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences)
SoftwarePrimary
Statistical analysis software for conflict research — covering survey data analysis, conflict data, and research statistics for peace and conflict studies projects.
Conflict Analysis Frameworks (ACCORD, USIP)
Resource
Conflict analysis frameworks and tools — covering conflict mapping, stakeholder analysis, conflict assessment frameworks, and analytical tools for conflict analysis and peacebuilding planning.
GIS (Geographic Information Systems)
Software
Mapping software for conflict analysis — covering spatial analysis of conflict, conflict mapping, and the use of GIS for visualising conflict patterns and peacebuilding interventions.
University Library and Research Resources
Resource
University library resources — providing access to conflict studies journals, peace research databases, international law references, and case study materials.

Certifications

Industry links

Common misconceptions

Conflict Resolution is just about mediation.
The programme covers conflict theory, international relations, human rights, transitional justice, post-conflict reconstruction, and peacebuilding — it is a comprehensive discipline addressing conflict at all levels.
Peace Studies graduates can only work in conflict zones.
Graduates work in government, diplomacy, NGOs, international organisations, research institutions, and community organisations — addressing conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and social cohesion in diverse settings.
Conflict Resolution is not academically rigorous.
The programme involves conflict theory, international law, research methods, policy analysis, and negotiation theory — it is a demanding interdisciplinary degree requiring analytical and practical skills.
There are no jobs in conflict resolution in Kenya.
Kenya's role in regional peacebuilding, the presence of international organisations in Nairobi, and devolution-related governance challenges create demand for conflict resolution professionals.
Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies is the same as International Relations.
While related, Conflict Resolution focuses specifically on conflict causes, resolution mechanisms, mediation, and peacebuilding, while International Relations covers broader diplomatic and political relations between states.