Such a program would allow you to explore international peace and justice issues while earning your college degree. Peace studies is an increasingly popular, interdisciplinary field of study offered to undergraduates at over 160 colleges and universities in the United States. Peace studies programs vary greatly from school to school.
Many students also choose to take one or more peace studies courses as electives.
At many colleges, course work can be enriched by an internship with a related organization or agency. Courses in peace studies emphasize the relevance of a college education to the search for solutions to critical international problems, and instill in students a positive sense of social responsibility. Peace studies develops traditional academic skills such as analytical thinking, research methods, and written and oral communication. The field gives students all of the beneflts of a solid liberal arts education along with special skills and insights, thus opening up job opportunities in teaching, law, diplomacy, journalism, politics, dis- pute resolution, and many other professional flelds. Numerous professional organizations have also shown support for peace studies, including the International Association of University Presidents, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the National Education Association.