George Mason University Korea offers innovative degrees in Conflict Analysis and Resolution. These degrees combine U.S. academic excellence in Korea with practical, real-world experience vital for students to become global conflict resolution and social transformation leaders.
George Mason University Korea, located in Incheon's new international city of Songdo, offers two unique degree programs: an undergraduate degree and in conjunction with the Carter School in the U.S., a newly reimagined master's degree, both in Conflict Analysis and Resolution (CAR). and are directly offered from the United States.
The CAR undergraduate degree program emphasizes skill development and practical experience, both in and out of the classroom, preparing students to become future leaders and change-makers. The undergraduate degree will also equip students to manage, transform, and resolve complex issues at all societal levels, regardless of job. The CAR master's degree program is specifically designed to support recent graduates, mid-level scholars, and other professionals. It offers unique classes that deal with conflict management from an Asian perspective, incorporating key leadership skills and training.
In today's seamlessly connected world, people from diverse cultures and backgrounds are closer than ever. This connectivity fosters opportunities for interaction and the exchange of ideas. However, this openness also brings challenges that can lead to conflicts due to cultural differences, race, history, and even politics. To avoid and reduce the intensity of potential conflicts, society needs knowledgeable and skilled professionals who can manage the increasing complexity in a rapidly evolving, borderless world.
The "Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution" (formerly known as the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution or S-CAR) at George Mason University, located near Washington, D.C., in the United States, has campuses and programs in Arlington, Fairfax, and Lorton, Virginia, as well as Mason Korea in Songdo, Incheon, South Korea. Founded in 1981, it is the oldest and largest institution specializing in peace studies, conflict resolution, and leadership development in the United States. The CAR program is designed to improve conflict situations, making it the first Asian initiative to offer such opportunities to a diverse student body worldwide. The international city of Songdo blends the best of Eastern and Western cultures and is an ideal location, less than two hours from major East Asian cities.
Programs Designed to Create Real-World Impact
Undergraduate students can choose from two pathways that best match their interests. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) integrates social sciences and humanities to develop interpersonal skills and theoretical knowledge, enhanced by field experience and foreign language communication skills. The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Conflict Analysis and Resolution focuses on scientific methods, analytical reasoning, and quantitative research, suitable for technology, data analysis, and consultancy careers.
Regardless of the pathway, undergraduate students will spend three years at the Songdo campus and one year at the U.S. campus in Fairfax, Virginia. This allows students to greatly expand their career opportunities in capitals such as Seoul, South Korea, or Washington, D.C.
Graduate students will have the opportunity to choose from various classes specifically designed for current and future leaders, including classes on mediation, negotiation, organizational conflict, and leadership in Asia.
Students will study in a modified online/offline format, with in-person classes at the Mason Korea Campus during the 1st and 3rd spring semesters and online classes with faculty from the US campus during the 2nd and 4th semesters.
Both the undergraduate and graduate degrees will offer students opportunities to travel to other international study abroad locations and participate in real-world practice activities. All classes are also taught by distinguished scholar-practitioners.
Career Opportunities and Advancement
Graduates of these programs are well-prepared for various roles, including specialists and consultants in diverse organizations such as diplomacy, international relations, and the government and private sectors. The comprehensive knowledge provided by the CAR curriculum equips all graduates with the necessary leadership, negotiation, and mediation skills needed to resolve difficult issues effectively.
Pathway to Becoming a Change-Maker
Suppose you are committed to leading change and seeking a career that significantly impacts human society. In that case, the CAR programs at George Mason University Korea are your gateway to becoming a global leader. Regardless of your background or career path, these programs will put you ahead of your peers and position you for true success.