Why you should consider this program

In a world full of conflict, you can make a difference. Prepare to lead organizations and movements that address interpersonal conflicts and sustained, structural conflicts within organizations, communities, and nations. The Center for Justice and Peacebuilding’s (CJP) MA in Conflict Transformation and MA in Restorative Justice combine theory and practice throughout the 2-year programs. Ongoing practice, specialized skills courses, and individualized practicums inform our learning community. Students benefit from faculty doing cutting edge research and practice, the personal attention of our Practice Director, and opportunities to engage a worldwide network of alums and practitioners.

Both degree programs include core classes in peacebuilding and research methods.

The MA in Conflict Transformation (MACT) prepares students to explore many different threads of peacebuilding and conflict transformation and apply them to society. Our alums work in community development, NGO leadership, dialogue and mediation, advocacy as well asy, high-level position within UN and governmentwomen’s empowerment., and many other areas of conflict transformation.

The MA in Restorative Justice (MARJ) prepares students for leadership roles in reforming criminal-legal systems and advancing creative approaches to justice and healing. This degree was the first of its kind in the nation. Our alums work includes RJ circles, RJ in education, transitional justice, victim rights advocacy, and much more.

Benefits for Coverdell Fellows

	Tuition/fees for Complete Program	Value of Coverdell Fellowship	Net cost *
In state	$ 46,820	$ 11,784	$ 35,036
Out of state	$ 46,820	$ 11,784	$ 35,036

* Net cost is equal to tuition/fees minus fellowship value. For some universities, the fellowship value includes non-tuition/fee benefits such as health insurance or housing—see the first point below for more details.

Where the cost savings value of the Coverdell Fellowship comes from

Please note that all Coverdell Fellows program(s) at this institution offer minimum financial benefit of minimum of 25% off tuition + fees or higher.

Fellowships awarded per year (average)

2

Other benefits or opportunities

All students are eligible for graduate assistantships that are compensated at an hourly rate.

Application fee waived?

Yes

Internship

Fellows will have the opportunity to use their skills developed in the Peace Corps - managing projects, adapting to new environments, working in multicultural environments with diverse partners, and creatively solving problems in partnership with traditionally 2underserved communities. Once on campus, the Coverdell Fellows coordinator will hold an extensive initial meeting with the Fellow to identify overall learning goals for the academic program, highlight specific interests for skill development, and discuss possible internship opportunities based on the student’s specific interests and learning goals. Fellows will visit several internship sites during orientation and will submit a cover letter and resume to at least two possible sites.

At a minimum, Fellows will work 150 hours in their fellowship usually during their first three semesters. In addition, in order to meet CJP’s program requirement, students will work 360 – 540 hours in their practicum usually during their final semester. Fellowships will be based in Harrisonburg, whereas practicums can be based anywhere in the US.

Past student practice and practicum opportunities have included supporting working with a local immigrant resources center or refugee resettlement agency, engaging local schools in restorative justice work, and working for national and international NGOs and the United Nations.participating in the activities and programs at a local community center.

Other details

Program length

Two years full time with flexible part-time options

Application requirements

• All returned Peace Corps Volunteers must submit their Description of Service (DOS). Current Peace Corps Volunteers should submit a letter of support from their Country Director specifying that the applicant is in good standing until the DOS is available.
• Online Application - includes essay section and optional scholarship essay section
• Resume/CV
• Transcript(s)
• 3 References
• Language Scores (if applicable)

Admissions process

All RPCVs will be considered for Peace Corps Fellows funding. No additional steps or forms are required. By selecting the RPCV box on the application, candidates will automatically be considered. All Fellows will be notified in their admission letter if they have been awarded a fellowship. Based on the applicant pool, applicants may be accepted to the program and waitlisted for a fellowship.

Program begins

Late August

Non-traditional options

• Low residency or distance learning
• Option to pursue degree part time while receiving the Coverdell Fellowship

Both degrees offer limited residency options.

Year Coverdell Fellows partnership started

2022

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Contact

Scott Eyre, 540-432-4689