Conflict and Policy Analysis (Graduate Certificate)
The Conflict and Policy Analysis Graduate Certificate program prepares students to analyze and address the complex challenges that arise in crisis- and conflict-affected settings around the world. The four-course program includes two tracks: Global Governance or Development/Peacebuilding. To further allow students to tailor their studies, the certificate includes an elective. Emphasizing applied, practitioner-focused skills, the Graduate Certificate prepares students to conduct policy analysis, evaluate programs, map stakeholders, and use data to inform decision-making.
This Graduate Certificate provides a flexible credential for those seeking to supplement their graduate studies in other areas and for those seeking deeper knowledge and skills without committing to a full master’s degree. The Certificate can be started in the fall, spring, or summer term and completed in less than a year across four terms (equivalent to two semesters) in an accessible online format.
Note that this Graduate Certificate is stackable, enabling all Certificate course credits to be applied toward the Carsey School's Master of Science in Global Conflict and Human Security or Master in Public Policy programs.
Program Delivery & Location: Core academic courses for this Certificate program are offered fully online with the option of taking select courses in person on the UNH campuses.
Students enrolled in the Conflict and Policy Analysis Graduate Certificate online program are required to complete a 12-credit program, consisting of 4 courses as follows:
- 3 Core Curriculum Courses
- 1 Approved Elective Course
With an emphasis on skills building, students in this online Graduate Certificate program will gain tools to apply a holistic approach to solving human security challenges in complex environments. The coursework draws from peace and conflict studies and policy studies. The theoretical core cultivates a deep understanding of the links between civil conflict and international development and the role of policy entrepreneurs in shaping international responses to crisis and building peace. The curriculum strengthens critical thinking and data literacy, emphasizes cross-cultural competence, and bridges theory with practice. Students will gain advanced, applied skills—from stakeholder mapping to policy analysis and program evaluation.
Students can focus their Graduate Certificate studies by choosing a specialization track below.
Global Governance Track
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| Core Curriculum | ||
| GCHS 810 | Conflict & Human Security | 3 |
| GCHS 820 | Global Governance | 3 |
| or PPOL 810 | Policy Across Borders | |
| PA 804 | Policy and Program Evaluation | 3 |
| Electives | ||
| Select one approved elective course 1 | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 12 | |
DEVELOPMENT/PEACEBUILDING Track
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| Core Curriculum | ||
| GCHS 810 | Conflict & Human Security | 3 |
| GCHS 830 | International Development & Human Security | 3 |
| or GCHS 840 | Sustainable Development: Gender-Environment Nexus | |
| PA 804 | Policy and Program Evaluation | 3 |
| Electives | ||
| Select one approved elective course 1 | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 12 | |
- 1
A range of Elective courses are offered online and on campus each term by the Carsey School. Students may also choose relevant Elective courses offered by other UNH departments. Consultation with the Program Coordinator or Graduate Academic Advisor should inform this choice.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Conflict and Policy Analysis Graduate Certificate, students will be able to:- Demonstrate strong theoretical and empirical foundations for understanding global policy issues related to crisis, conflict, and human security worldwide.
- Apply practical tools and methods for policy analysis and policy evaluation.
- Design, evaluate, and recommend policy and programmatic interventions for communities in crisis.
- Practice ethically in diverse and complex environments.
- Communicate effectively across cultures and professional contexts.