Conflict Transformation Studies

Minor

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Top 5 reasons to study conflict transformation at Goshen College

  1. Regina Shands Stoltzfus teachingLearn to turn conflict into opportunity
    Learn how tension and disagreement can lead to growth, reconciliation and meaningful social change.
  2. Develop practical mediation skills
    Gain training in nonviolent communication, negotiation, facilitation and conflict mediation you can use in real situations.
  3. Understand conflict from multiple perspectives
    Study the root causes and dynamics of interpersonal, cultural and systemic conflict to respond thoughtfully and constructively.
  4. Prepare for diverse careers and graduate study
    Build skills valued in fields such as nonprofit leadership, public policy, social work, law, education and international relations.
  5. Grow personally while building peacebuilding skills
    Develop emotional awareness, empathy and self-understanding while learning how to guide dialogue and resolve difficult situations.
  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in grad school, or in service within a year
  • 50%
    of students study abroad through our hands-on learning programs

    Program Overview

    Students praying around a 'peace pole'

    This minor is designed for students who hope to use mediation training, alternative dispute resolution and communication skills in a particular career path. By the time students graduate, they will be equipped with an appreciation of the transformative power of tension and the tools to initiate peace and reconciliation.

    You’ll study with faculty who are experts in peacebuilding, mediation, and social change. Gaining mediation experience can be an opportunity for personal growth. In addition to learning about organizational conflict, students will also gain a deeper understanding of themselves and others. Through hands-on learning like internships, community projects and global experiences, you’ll gain real-world experience that prepares you to become a confident, ethical changemaker.

    Students and faculty each lit a candle at the Campus Lighting.

    Career Paths

    Conflict transformation is a minor program that is part of our Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies (PJCS) department. Alumni pursue a wide range of careers centered on people, justice and community engagement.

    Graduates work as organizers, mediators and human rights advocates, as well as in roles such as consultants, coordinators and nonprofit leaders. Others serve in community-focused positions supporting families, youth and global development efforts.

    Together, these paths reflect the program’s emphasis on leadership, advocacy and meaningful work in communities locally and around the world.

    Explore more about the program.

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