Summary

The Matsunaga Institute is a multi-disciplinary community of scholars, students, and practitioners who, through academic programs and outreach, promote cross-cultural understanding and collaborative problem-solving.

Residing within the Public Policy Center, the Matsunaga Institute emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration to groom leaders to address contemporary and complex issues in Hawai_i, the Asia-Pacific region, and the world. Matsunaga Institute students develop a theoretical foundation to advance scholarship in peace studies, including human rights and advocacy, leadership and governance, policy analysis, and communications. Students learn and hone practical conflict management skills by enrolling in Peace and Conflict Education (PACE) courses that enhance personal and professional skills.

Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution

The Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution (GCCR) allows graduate students and working professionals to study the theory and practice of conflict resolution and develop skills that are valued in a wide range of professions, including public administration, business, law, education, social work, urban planning, and human resource management. The GCCR can be pursued as a separate academic program or earned concurrently with a JD, MA, MPA, MS, MEd, MBA, MPH, MSW, or PhD, or any other graduate degree.

Undergraduate Certificate in Peace Studies

Equivalent to a minor at the University of Hawaiʻi, the Undergraduate Certificate in Peace Studies broadens students’ perspectives and strengthens critical thinking on issues of war and peace, justice and human rights, and governance. The Certificate exposes students to the fundamentals of peace and conflict resolution, skills are highly valued by employers in a wide range of professional fields, making it an excellent complement to many popular majors.

Course Delivery Options

Students may choose to complete the certificate by taking in-person courses or a mix of in-person and online courses. Students are also able to complete the certificate fully online. The University of Hawaii at Mānoa is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the fully online Peace Studies 5-Course Certificate is approved by WASC.