PACS 100
3 credits
Introduction to Peace and Conflict Studies
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course surveys the history, concepts, scholarship, and analytical framework of the multidisciplinary field of Peace and Conflict Studies, and it introduces students to the underlying causes of structural and physical violence, and to numerous peacebuilding strategies.
PACS 200
3 credits
Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding in the Fraser Valley
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course examines how the diverse cultural groups of the Fraser Valley approach conflict and peacebuilding within their own communities, and in relation to others.
PACS 201
3 credits
Equity-Based Dialogue and Engagement
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Examines the role of equity in dialogue and engagement. Students will learn effective civic engagement strategies to talk about difficult subjects and to communicate collective strategies to address challenges. The course focuses on understanding the experiences of others and facilitating respectful exchange between people with differing opinions and beliefs, with goals of communicating across difference and transforming adversarial relationships.
PACS 202
3 credits
Introduction to Mediating Conflict
Prerequisite(s): 9 university-level credits.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
An introduction to basic concepts, approaches, and skills for understanding relationships experiencing conflict and facilitating positive shifts from negative to positive communication. Students learn how mediators can work to restructure relationships based on shared visions of justice and apply these skills to personal, community, and/or broader contexts.
PACS 300
3 credits
Religion, Violence, and Peacebuilding
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Religion plays a significant role in personal, regional, and global affairs, and that role manifests in many ways in the world, including the most violent behaviours, and some of the most sophisticated peacebuilding plans and actions. This course analyzes the relations between religion, violence, and peacebuilding through an investigation of the sacred texts and teachings in religion that fuel violence, and the sacred texts that provide a base for peacebuilding. Students will learn to employ religious and related philosophical teachings in relationships to build a more peaceful society and world.
PACS 310
3 credits
Conflict Transformation
Prerequisite(s): 30 university-level credits.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students examine conflict transformation methodology that addresses the root causes of violence in personal, communal, and international realms. Strategies are explored for the creation of new conditions that satisfy all parties, and that can sustain peace long-term.
PACS 390
3 credits
Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding Directed Study
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits including PACS 100, PACS 200, PACS 310, and GEOG 346 and (one of HSER 120 or CMNS 180), and permission of the PACS Program Coordinator.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course is an intensive study of a particular aspect of the field of Peace and Conflict Studies. In consultation with the supervising professor, students will select a specific concept or case for examination.
PACS 391
3 credits
Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding Field Work
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits including PACS 100, PACS 200, PACS 310, and GEOG 346 and (one of HSER 120 or CMNS 180), and permission of the PACS Program Coordinator.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course centers on a real-life scenario that incorporates the central components of Peace and Conflict Studies. In consultation with the supervising professor, students will find placement in a peacebuilding organization, which will provide the basis for their field work project.
PACS 400
3 credits
Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding Seminar
Prerequisite(s): 90 university-level credits including PACS 100, PACS 200, PACS 310, GEOG 346, and (one of HSER 120 or CMNS 180), and permission of the PACS Program Coordinator.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course centers on a major project that analyzes and proposes the implementation of peacebuilding tools related to the community or workplace. The project, and the seminar paper presentations and discussions, are designed to increase self-awareness, and to equip students with vigorous and appropriate communication and peacebuilding skills.
