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Conflict Analysis and Resolution Courses
CAR201 Fundamentals of Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This introductory course explores the nature of conflict and a variety of tools that can be used to analyze conflict at its different levels. Drawing from broad theoretical bases, the course examines the complex causes of conflict within the framework of human rights and needs. The course introduces students to models for analyzing conflict and practical ways for responding to conflict, including skills of interpersonal communication, negotiation and mediation.
CAR202 Cross-Cultural Communication and Conflict
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course examines the basic concepts, theories and issues of intercultural communication and cross-cultural human relations. The course explores how these relate to interpersonal and group conflict and conflict transformation.
CAR204 Social Psychology
[3–0, 3 cr.]
Social Psychology focuses on how individual motives, cognitions, attitudes are affected by groups, organizations and institutes. These influences will be explored in domains such as interpersonal attraction, prejudice, conformity, attitudes, aggression and motivation.
Prerequisite: PSY201 Introduction to Psychology
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR213 Mediation Skills
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course provides students with an understanding of the role, and types of mediation. It also provides students with an overview of how mediation is used as a means of resolving conflict. The course discusses the relationship that exists between mediation and legal processes and gives students a solid grounding in the theoretical underpinnings of mediation. The course also gives students the opportunity to learn some of the main skills involved in mediation through in-class exercises and simulations.
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR231 Introduction to Human Rights
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course deals with international human rights’ policies and the moral and political issues to which they give rise. The course poses questions such as: What are human rights? Are some rights more fundamental than others, and what compelling interests, if any, justify their violation?
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR241 Model United Nation: Diplomatic Skills & Simulation
[3–0, 3 cr.]
The course explores the workings of the United Nations and expands the students’ global awareness on issues ranging from international disputes to cooperation towards development. The course initiates students to international diplomacy by letting them simulate various UN member states and investigate multilateral issues from a national perspective. The students would develop public speaking, debating, and negotiation skills; all while engaging in consensus building and learning prejudice reduction mechanisms.
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR311 Social Problems
[3–0, 3 cr.]
The course surveys key political ideas primarily from the Renaissance through the Enlightenment up to the beginning of the 20th century. Analysis and discussion of original texts and political ideas related to the general philosophy of each author’s historical and political background.
Prerequisite: POL201 Introduction to Political Science.
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR312 Women and Economic Power
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course aims to explain the economic role played by women at both the household and national levels. The main topics include the participation of women in the labor force, wage differentials, and occupational distribution by gender, as well as determinants of women’s active economic participation, and their contribution to national development.
CAR315 Community Conflict and Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course focuses on the social dimension of conflict by looking at group dynamics and social interactions. The course reviews concepts such as group formation, inter- and intra-group communication, group dynamics, cultural, religious and other influences as well as ways communal conflict manifest themselves and how conflicts tend to be resolved in communities. Students would review group conflicts and analyze community conflicts that they are familiar with. This course will be of significant relevance to Political Science, International Relations and Social Studies students. The course will review the role of nongovernmental and governmental organizations in contributing to community conflict resolution.
CAR316 Introduction to International Conflict and Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
The course is designed to introduce students to the causes and dynamics of international conflict and ways they are addressed at the international level. The course begins by reviewing the different theories that explain the emergence of international conflict. It then studies the various factors that lead to international conflict and the dynamics that encourage conflict escalation. Finally, the course reviews the various techniques used to intervene in such conflicts including early warning systems, first and second track diplomacy, sanctions and military intervention among others.
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR317 Conflict Resolution Tools for the Business World
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course provides an overview of the skills and tools needed to understand different types of conflicts in a business setting. It also provides students with information on how to analyze such conflicts and review techniques used for effective intervention in such conflicts. Real life examples are used to illustrate such conflicts and the processes that have helped achieve conflict resolution or transformation. Furthermore, leadership role and cultural influences are reviewed in addition to conflict resolutions skills such as facilitation, negotiation and mediation techniques.
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR318 Religious Thought and Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
Religion has offered people a framework to deepen and organize their beliefs, thought and practice; they have also offered believers norms by which to live and to interact with others. While many consider religion to have often been at the source of conflicts, others look at religion as the way of diffusing conflict and overcoming them. Among other things, the course looks at decisions made by religious leaders and institutions that helped reduce conflicts at key moments in history and reviews the contribution of religious thought to building tolerance, encouraging dialogue and initiating processes for conflict resolution and transformation.
CAR415 Negotiation and Bargaining
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course explores negotiation and bargaining from the individual to the international level, including both public and private sector examples. It covers the context of negotiation, proceeds to the structure of negotiations and to the dynamics, strategy and tactics for persuading, coercing, and bargaining through to conclusion. Group and national differences and approaches will be highlighted and demonstrated using intra-cultural negotiating exercises.
Prerequisite: POL201 Introduction to Political Science and ENG202 Advanced Academic English
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR432 Public International Law
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course examines the nature of international law sources, the differences between international law and municipal law and the international systems’ legal organization, states (their territory and jurisdiction) as subjects of international law, as well as international treaties and agreements, diplomatic and consular agents, laws of war, neutrality, belligerent occupation, and war crimes. Through case studies, this course examines the principle laws of nations.
Co-requisite:ENG202 Advanced Academic English
Prerequisite: POL201 Introduction to Political Science
Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2024 and will not be taught in this academic year 2026–2027.
CAR600 International Conflict and Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
A seminar aimed at describing conflict in the international arena and enumerating its various causes; applying general concepts of conflict to concentrate situations; describing and criticizing various perspectives on conflict resolution; and identifying the main influences on the escalation and de-escalation of conflict, such as the roles of public opinion, opinion shapers and the mass media.
CAR601 War and Peace: Theoretical and Philosophical Foundations
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This seminar provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the main political theories regarding war and peace in international relations, with a special focus on these theories’ views on the causes of war, approaches to peace, and the resolution of international conflicts. It examines the Realist, Liberal Internationalist, and Marxian theories of war and peace, outlining the philosophical foundations of each theory, its main postulates, and the empirical evidence that supports or contradicts its predictions. It also provides an overview of other International Relations theories, mainly Critical Theory and Constructivist Theory.
CAR602 Theories of Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course introduces the various ideas and theories of Conflict Analysis and Resolution. It explores the different schools of thought and traditions that have shaped the development of theoretical knowledge in the field of conflict analysis and resolution as well as conflict transformation. The course focuses mainly on conflict resolution theories in addition to a number of theories from different fields such as political science, social psychology, communications theory, media studies, sociology, economics, and anthropology.
CAR605 Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course offers a detailed discussion of the role of diplomacy in resolving conflict. It addresses the history of diplomacy and the role it played in ending conflict among the major European powers. The course further analyzes the effectiveness of multilateral diplomacy, including by international bodies such as the UN, EU, and the OAU, in ending domestic wars and ushering durable peace in conflict ridden societies. The course will also examinations of concrete cases on the successes and failures of international diplomacy It concludes by encouraging debates on the future of diplomacy in a globalized age where the globalized media play a major role.
CAR607 Arbitration, Mediation, and Law
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course explores the different roles played by a mediator and an arbitrator, with an emphasis on the nuance between these two roles and their relation to judicial cases. It offers the necessary skills for both mediation and arbitration with an explanation of theories related to these two methods. Finally, the course reviews practical cases of mediation and arbitration, carefully studying factors influencing failure and success.
CAR610 Conflict Resolution at the Workplace
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course covers cases and examples of conflicts that might emerge at the workplace either between employers and employees, or among employees. It offers theories and methods of conflict resolution that could be applied to resolve such conflicts, or conflicts between different organizations. It also explains ethical standards and laws adopted to regulate relations among individuals in different professional setting.
CAR615 Psychological Approaches to Conflict and Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course aims to address conflicts from a psychological perspective. It explains the different psychological changes that individuals go through before, during, and after conflicts. It also addresses individual and collective psychological trauma, with an emphasis on ways to break the cycles of violence. A detailed explanation of the complexity of trauma that emerges as a result of wars and natural disasters is offered. This course also emphasizes the importance of the role played by group psychology and dynamics in conflicts.
CAR616 Displacement and Conflict
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course explores how displacement can create social, economic, environmental and political problems which can lead to conflict among culturally and socioeconomically different groups. Each of these categories of problems and their impact on refugee population and host communities will be explored separately and in connection to others. In addition, this course differentiates between the short-term and the long-term impacts of migration, and offers, based on good-practices, ways to address the consequences of such migration. It also offers students the necessary tools and methods to analyze and resolve migration related conflicts. It explains the role of state and non-state actors in dealing with this type of human suffering and conflict at the local, regional, and global level. Furthermore, international laws and regulations pertaining to migration are also examined through illustrative case studies.
CAR617 International Law and Human Rights
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course reviews the most essential principles of international law. It focuses on the principle of the peaceful settlement of disputes, and the different methods available for the application of this approach. Using illustrative case studies, it also discusses the state of Human Rights in conflicts and mechanisms to limit human rights abuses. In addition, an overview of International Criminal Law, special tribunals and humanitarian law will be offered.
CAR619 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Children, youth, and School Violence Reduction
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course explores the different types of conflicts that might emerge among children and youth. It explores the different psychological changes that children go through, with a special emphasis on bullying. It also addresses ways to teach children how to resolve their disputes peacefully without recurring to violence. Finally, it provides educators with a solid grounding on how to address conflicts when with children or youth groups.
CAR 620 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Conflict and Conflict Resolution in the Middle East
[3–0, 3 cr.]
The Middle East region has had a long history of conflict. The collapse of the Ottoman Empire led to the emergence of diverse Arab and non-Arab states that had to grapple with multiple local and regional conflicts, as well with conflicts arising from the neo-colonial designs and policies of Western powers, especially Great Britain, France and the United States. This course focuses on intra-Arab rivalries, the conflicts between Iran and the Gulf states (e.g., with the UAE over the disputed three islands), and the lingering Arab-Israeli conflict. It addresses the various diplomatic initiatives, including by the UN and the USA, to resolve the Arab Israeli Conflict and the reasons behind failing to address the root cause of the Conflict: namely the continued occupation of Palestinian land.
CAR621 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Conflict and Conflict Resolution in Lebanon
[3–0, 3 cr.]
Conflict is not new to Lebanon. Since achieving independence, Lebanon has experienced multiple political, economic and social conflicts, including a mini-civil war in 1958 and a protracted violent conflict that lasted from 1975 and until 1989. As important as the conflicts themselves, are the various mechanisms utilized to resolve them. These conflict resolution efforts almost invariably involved foreign actors stepping in to act as mediators to bring the internal parties to an agreement. The course will focus on specific conflicts, addressing: 1) their root internal and regional causes; their violent manifestations; and the local and regional initiatives that were deployed to bring them to an end. Equally important, and drawing on the rich literature on conflict resolution, the course explores traditional and innovative approaches to enhance the immunity of the Lebanese polity and society against future violent internal conflict.
CAR624 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Conflict Resolution at the Local Level
[3–0, 3 cr.]
Conflicts at the local level—whether they involve community members, government agencies, or local organizations—are crucial to address as they directly impact residents’ day-to-day lives. This course is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of both traditional and innovative conflict resolution tools that can be applied in settings such as municipalities, districts, and towns. The course focuses on resolving conflicts related to key community concerns, including education, sanitation, public safety, and community-police relations.
CAR625 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Conflict Resolution and Cross-Cultural Communication
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course investigates the factors that influence how conflicts develop—such as cultural norms, values, communication styles, and historical tensions—and examines how these elements differ across cultures and societies. By analyzing real-world case studies, students will gain insights into how cultural assumptions and behaviors can both fuel conflicts while offering avenues for its resolution. The course also considers the role of identity, power dynamics, and socio-political influences in shaping conflict scenarios. Through interactive discussions, group projects, and role-playing exercises (simulations), students will develop skills for recognizing and respecting cultural differences, enabling them to work effectively in diverse teams and settings. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with practical tools and strategies to approach cultural conflicts constructively, fostering understanding and collaboration across cultural boundaries.
CAR626 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Identity and Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course offers an examination of the role of identity in conflict and conflict resolution. It examines the role of different forms of identity (e.g., religious, ethnic, gender-based identity) in triggering conflicts whether between individuals, groups, or states. Equally important, the course examines theoretical and practical avenues to address identity-based conflicts and to seek their resolution such as through cross-cultural communications, embracing multicultural societies, and faith-based approaches to conflict resolution.
CAR627 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Conflict Resolution in a Technological Era
[3–0, 3 cr.]
As conflicts become more complex and globalized, traditional methods alone are often insufficient to manage and resolve disputes. This course provides a forward-looking perspective, showing how innovative uses of AI and massive data sets can enhance peacebuilding efforts and improve responses to conflict. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to leverage these technologies, the course aims to build a new generation of conflict resolution experts capable of addressing today’s global challenges with cutting-edge tools.
CAR629 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Advanced Negotiation
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course explores various negotiation tactics used by individuals and organizations. It provides skills for effective negotiation at different levels (individual, communal, societal, and international) and in different fields such as diplomacy, corporations, labor, etc. It helps students to integrate theories and practice in order to acquire effective negotiation and bargaining skills. It explains also the similarities and differences in the various negotiation methods, while highlighting the different stages of negotiation. This course will include 1 credit worth of practice.
CAR630 Research Methods in Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course introduces the various research methods that can be applied to the field of Conflict Analysis and Resolution. It enhances students’ research skills and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data. It aims at developing among students the ability of thinking critically, building strong arguments, and conduct primary research. It also provides students with the required communication and interviewing skills needed in field research. Finally, it makes students aware of the ethical dimension in research and how to best protect research subjects.
CAR631 Topics in Conflict Resolution: Advanced Mediation
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course discusses the definition of mediation and offers advanced mediation skills for students. It highlights the different levels of involvement of a conflict specialist in different types of mediations, with an emphasis on the role of the mediator. It trains students to be impartial effective mediators. It explores functions, methods, and techniques of mediation and offers a cultural perspective on mediation. This course also highlights nuances of practices in mediation by explaining the different mediation schools of thought and styles. This course will include 1 credit worth of practice.
CAR680 Topics in Conflict Resolution
[3–0, 3 cr.]
This course provides an advanced examination of selected and emerging topics in conflict resolution. Drawing on theoretical, comparative, and applied perspectives, it explores the causes, dynamics, management, and resolution of conflict across interpersonal, communal, national, and international settings. Specific topics may vary and may include identity and culture, local and regional conflicts, children and youth, negotiation and mediation, cross-cultural communication, and technological innovations in conflict resolution. Through case studies, practical applications, and contemporary approaches, students develop analytical and applied skills for understanding conflicts and designing appropriate strategies for their prevention, management, and resolution.
CAR698 Field-Based Research
[6 cr.]
A practicum provides an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge acquired during their Master degree in a real-life case or with an organization working on a specific conflict. Students are expected to work with a public or private institution as reflective practitioners, where they can help in addressing a conflict at hand. Institutions can include: schools, nongovernmental organizations, businesses, governmental institutions, religious institutions, local governments or conflict resolution organizations. Students will spend at least 300 hours at the chosen institution, after which a significant project report should be developed and presented to the Project supervisory committee.
CAR699 Thesis
[6 cr.]
A thesis is independent research under the supervision of a specialized faculty, focusing on the analysis of a certain type of conflict and the mechanisms used to address it.
