Peace, Conflict, and Security Program

The Peace, Conflict, and Security Program (or PACS) was established on the University of Colorado Boulder campus in the wake of the Civil Rights Movement and Vietnam War to help students understand the causes of conflict, violence, and war, and to promote constructive ways to deal with complex social and political issues using nonviolent means. PACS is one of the longest running academic peace studies programs in the United States. Since our founding, PACS has trained hundreds of students on how to deal more constructively with conflict, whether that conflict is between roommates, domestic issues between community members, or international crises between states. Students who participate in the PACS Program learn transferable skills in conflict analysis and intervention techniques essential for all current and future leaders striving to address today’s multifaceted challenges.

PACS currently offers an 18-credit hour certificate available to all undergraduate students at CU Boulder. Students do not need to enroll in the PACS Certificate to take PACS courses, but in our humble opinion, we think the certificate makes for a great compliment to any path study, especially those seeking careers in international affairs, policy and law, security, or organizational leadership. Most of our courses blend a mix of theoretical knowledge with practical skill-building, particularly in the areas of facilitation, negotiation, dialogue, mediation, and community-building. One of our newest courses is Mediation Skills, a course modeled on the foundational training for professional mediators and taught by professional mediators! Another popular course given the pressing concerns on climate change is Environmental Conflict and Conflict Resolution. This course teaches students how to understand the nuances of environmental issues and to work with a variety of stakeholders on contentious problems.

PACS has recently partnered with the Center for Leadership and is excited that our students are participating with The Leading EDGE Council. This is what they have to say about how their studies in PACS prepares them as leaders:

“PACS has evolved my perspective and education by expanding knowledge beyond causation of conflict, towards including methods of resolution to provide more feasible solutions. PACS has provided me with the skillset to understand a multitude of grievances from people of many backgrounds; therefore, developing me to be an effective leader to better deter conflict and manage high tension scenarios.” – Kayla Mackie

“PACS contributes to my development as a leader and, most importantly, as a good listener. It helps to show me all the different aspects of intercultural relations and the complexity of our world. PACS encourages me to keep learning and enjoy my time at CU Boulder.” – Ellie Friedman

“Only through communication and understanding which takes more initiative than realized can our world hope to understand itself and others. Even if we're getting older it doesn't mean that we are growing.” – Anna Marie Veltri

Students interested in learning more about the PACS Program and the certificate should check out our website (www.colorado.edu/pacs) or can reach out directly to the program’s director Dr. English (pacs@colorado.edu).