Graduate Programs

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#1
The Carter School is ranked No. 1 in the country among public colleges for conflict resolution and mediation.
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30+
Years of leading the world in conflict resolution research and teaching.
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500+
Students bringing diverse perspectives to our programs, the largest in the world
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75%
Alumni have found employment directly related to their career goals.

Degrees that Drive Change

The Carter School was founded on the recognition that conflict is a whole-of-society phenomenon and transforming it toward peace and justice requires whole-of-society approaches. That’s why our top-of-the-field graduate programs offer an interdisciplinary curriculum that encourages students to identify the steps they can take to address conflicts at the interpersonal, community, institutional, national, and global levels.

Application Deadlines

Deadlines vary by degree program. See our individual program pages for more details. Contact Carter Graduate Admissions if you have any questions.

Email: tcsinfo@gmu.edu 

Phone: +1 (703) 993-1300

Not Ready for a Degree? 

If you want to add to your professional skills but do not wish to commit to a degree program, non-degree studies is for you. Visit the Non-Degree Studies page for more information.

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What is Conflict Analysis?

Conflict is difficult, complex, and everywhere. It can be interpersonal, at the community level, organizational, and international. However, conflict can be an opportunity for positive change. Engaging in conflict analysis prepares students to understand and identify the underlying causes of discord in any context and environment. With a degree from the Carter School, you’ll be prepared to address conflict at all levels of society.

From Here, Go Anywhere

As a pioneer in the field, the Carter School uses cutting-edge theory to support ongoing research, education, and practical work, ultimately providing students with tools for ethical and just resolution. The Carter School prepares you for a meaningful career that you’re passionate about. Conflict is everywhere, and the tools you gain from a Carter School education will be applicable wherever you go next. Our graduates serve in a wide range of leadership roles. You’ll find our alumni everywhere from Apple to the American Red Cross to the U.S. Senate.

Affordable Tuition

George Mason University is a public institution, offering a world-class education from a highly-ranked research university for reasonable tuition rates. Many Carter School students receive some form of financial assistance.
 

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“Our graduates don’t just enter the workforce—they lead. Their work creates ripples of transformation that extend far and wide, influencing policies, resolving conflicts, and fostering sustainable peace. Join us and become a part of a legacy that is shaping the future of peace and conflict resolution across the globe. Your journey to making a difference starts here.”

— Alpaslan Özerdem
Dean of the Carter School