Program Overview

Introduction to the Certificate in Peace Studies

The Certificate in Peace Studies is an interdisciplinary program that cultivates an approach to the academic study of peace, conflict, (re)conciliation, the nature of substantive justice, and the practice of nonviolent resistance. Peace studies is concerned with both the analysis and creative transformation of conflict and injustice. Within the field, peace is defined as not only the absence of war but also by positive conditions such as social justice, gender and racial equality, and ecological health.

Program Overview

• The Certificate in Peace Studies is a one- or two-year certificate program.
• It is available for part-time study.
• Students can enter this program directly from high school.
• The program can be started off-campus.

What You Will Learn

You will learn about the causes and consequences of conflict, violence, and injustice, as well as theoretical and practical strategies to transform conflict. Through case studies, discussions, and classes in various disciplines, you will study real-world examples of peace-making in various places and times, allowing you to apply your knowledge in your own discipline, future profession, and community.

Featured Classes

• CPSJ 112: Introduction to Peace Studies: This course introduces students to the various ways scholars and activists define peace and the challenges they face in securing peace. It surveys the major causes of direct and structural violence; the various definitions of "peace" and the conditions under which it is achieved and sustained; and the comparative success of various strategies to promote nonviolent social change.
• CPSJ 310: Peace Theory and Praxis: This course offers an interdisciplinary survey and synthesis of contemporary peace theory and peacebuilding practices. Topics may include approaches to peacebuilding, conflict transformation, reconciliation, mediation, and international conflict resolution.

Why Study Here?

The Certificate in Peace Studies is the only post-secondary education peace studies program in the province. Established with the support of both community and university stakeholders, it draws on the world-class expertise of professors in political science, anthropology, international studies, Indigenous studies, English, philosophy, religious studies, and history to make cross-disciplinary and real-world applications.

Careers

The certificate format allows students in any college and community members not currently pursuing a degree to complete a credential. The Certificate in Peace Studies will allow you to develop skills relevant for any work context, and conflict resolution skills are particularly helpful in management, criminal justice, counseling, politics, social work, business, child and family services, mediation, and other career paths.

Tuition Estimates

| Canadian students | International students
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Tuition | $775.50 per 3 credit unit class | $3,753.30 per 3 credit unit class
Student fees | $1,308.24 per year | $1,308.24 per year

Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay per class (Canadian dollar rates).

Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision, and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs, and fitness centre access. This estimate reflects the price you would pay if you are a full-time student.

The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 for this program.

Program Options

The Certificate in Peace Studies is offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science. You may earn the certificate on its own, concurrently with a degree program from this college or others, or after completing a degree.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements depend on your situation. For high school students or graduates, university/college students or graduates, the requirements vary based on where you attended high school and your educational background.

Application Deadlines

Start term | Application deadline | International deadline __
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Winter
January 2026 | Dec. 1, 2025
Documents due: Dec. 15, 2025 | Sept. 1, 2025
Documents due: Oct. 1, 2025
Spring
May 2026 | April 1, 2026
Documents due: May 1, 2026 | Feb. 1, 2026
Documents due: March 1, 2026
Summer
July 2026 | May 1, 2026
Documents due: June 1, 2026 | March 1, 2026
Documents due: April 1, 2026
Fall
September 2026 | July 15, 2026
Documents due: Aug. 1, 2026 | May 1, 2026
Documents due: June 1, 2026
Winter
January 2027 | Dec. 1, 2026
Documents due: Dec. 15, 2026 | Sept. 1, 2026
Documents due: Oct. 1, 2026

Related Programs

• Anthropology
• Economics
• English
• History
• Indigenous Studies
• International Studies
• Philosophy
• Political Studies
• Psychology
• Religion and Culture
• Sociology