What are the degree requirements?

The program is 2 full academic years (four semesters). This includes 13 classes (in residence at Notre Dame) and a one-semester internship. All students take foundational courses in peace studies; classes offering knowledge and skills specific to one professional track; and electives related to global politics, human rights, religion, culture, and political economy. A capstone course, including a major project that integrates theory and practice, also is required.

Can I specialize within peace studies?

Yes. Upon enrolling, students choose one of 3 professional tracks: Policy Analysis and Political Change; Organizational Leadership and Management; or Conflict Analysis and Transformation. Students take 3 courses in their track and internship positions that reflect their professional interests.

What are the qualifications for admission?

The program is limited to students who have at least a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent from a four-year college or university. Applicants are selected on the basis of grades, professional experience, exam scores, TOEFL scores (when applicable), and recommendations. Students must make a compelling statement in their application about how the master’s degree will advance their goals for work in peace and justice.

How much work experience is required for admission?

Most successful applicants will have worked for at least two years (paid or volunteer) in areas related to peace and justice.

When are classes in session?

Classes are in session from the last week in August through the first week of May (internships run from July through December).

Do you offer scholarships?

The Kroc Institute offers students who are accepted into the master’s program a full scholarship and a stipend for housing and living expenses for two years. Graduate stipends are intended to cover costs such as housing, telephone, food, books, supplies, and travel for students while in residence at Notre Dame and during internships at the Kroc field sites.

What resources do you offer for professional development?

Faculty members advise students on professional development. The Kroc Institute’s career development staff works with individual students and offers seminars on professional development. The University of Notre Dame’s Office of Career Services also has a staff dedicated to helping students realize their career goals. In addition, one of the Kroc Institute’s greatest assets is its alumni network of dedicated graduates at work around the globe.

Do I need to submit test scores?

U.S. citizens are required to take the Graduate Record Examination, the standardized exam used for admission to all graduate schools in the United States.

International students who are not native English speakers or who have not studied at a university in which English is the primary language of instruction are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Test (IELTS). All classes are taught in English.

Who makes the admissions decisions?

The Kroc Institute’s Master’s Admissions Committee (consisting of faculty) carefully reviews each applicant’s personal and professional experience to assess readiness for graduate study at the Kroc Institute.

What is the size of the master’s class?

Each master’s class in peace studies consists of a maximum of 20 students.

Where do students live?

Most students live in graduate student housing on campus. Off-campus rental housing also is available.

Can I visit?

Because so many prospective students to the Kroc Institute live outside of the United States, students are not required or expected to visit. Students who would like to visit the Kroc Institute to learn more about the master’s program may do so by appointment. If you wish to visit, email your request to kroc-admissions.1@nd.edu.

How do I apply?

Please apply online. The application deadline is December 15 of each year.