PACS Program Overviewpacs cu boulder logo

The Peace, Conflict, and Security ProgramÌý(PACS) serves students interested in the interdisciplinary areas of peace studies, conflict resolution, and human security and is available to any CU Boulder student. PACS has a four-decade history at the CU Boulder, preparing hundreds of students, many of whom are now peace and conflict professionals in a growing field.ÌýThe students in our certificate program come from diverse backgrounds, and have varied interests. ÌýHowever, they all share a deep concern about the destructive conflicts which create unnecessary violence, suffering, and injustice in our world. The PACS faculty believe that these forms of conflict are not inevitable, and that they can be managed through increased understanding and effective practices.

This program is dedicated to providing knowledge and skills that can help you to successfully engage the potential conflicts you will encounter in your personal and professional life. Perhaps most importantly, it will connect you with other students who share these commitments, and whoÌýseek to build strong peacemaking communities on the CU Boulder campus, and in the world. ÌýAs you’ll see, the requirements for theÌýPACS Certificate areÌýflexible, and allow you to pursue your unique interests as future peacebuilders and conflict intervenors.ÌýÌý

  • To apply for the certificate program, students should visit theÌýrequirementsÌýpage. Students are also encouraged to talk with the PACS Director Dr. Michael English about theirÌýplans. You canÌýcontact the PACS program via email.
  • PACS students participate in related programs on campus and beyond through study abroad and internships.ÌýUpon graduation, their career paths may lead them to graduate study and a growing number of organizations working to moderate conflict and build peace and justice at all levels of national and global society.
  • PACS relies on support from outside the University for its supplementary programs such as internships and scholarships. Those wishing to further the PACS mission, may do so by giving tax-deductible gifts to theÌýColorado Peace Studies Endowment.

PACS Data

The PACS program is proud toÌýhaveÌýa variety of students who learn important, life-long skills with high levels of student satisfaction. With smaller classes and more personalized instruction from experts in the field of Peace and Conflict studies, the PACS program gives students a comprehensive, well-rounded education.

  • Students who participate in the PACS curriculum enter intoÌýa number of careersÌýsuch as diplomacy,Ìýlaw, politics,Ìýnonprofits, business, leadership, and many more.
  • Over 96% of students believeÌýthe program improved the quality of their experience at CU Boulder.
  • While the top majors of the program include International Affairs and Political Science, students from many departments and colleges also benefit from the program.

To learn more about student satisfaction and how this program can benefit you, check outÌýPACS certificate information and the exit surveyÌýdataÌýbelow.