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Understand the drivers of peace and conflict

Political Science: International Relations: Peace and Security

Do you want to understand the growing challenges to international peace and security? Curious about how armed conflicts arise, how they can be resolved, and what role international organizations play in peacebuilding? Interested in the influence of domestic politics on foreign policy, or how historical legacies shape today’s conflicts? If so, our specialization in International Peace, Security, and Conflict is perfect for you.

The specialization International Relations: Peace and Security explores the roots and dynamics of conflict, the mechanisms of conflict resolution, and the role of international actors in peace processes. It equips you with the analytical tools to examine global and regional insecurity, the effectiveness of peacekeeping missions, and the political complexities of intervention. You’ll gain insights into ethnopolitical conflict within states, the impact of colonial and neocolonial structures, and the strategic calculations behind the use of military force. Special attention is given to the interplay between domestic politics and international decision-making.

The start date of this programme is September 1st.

VU Master's Event

Saturday 7 March 2026

International Master's webinar

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Discover your Political Science programme

The Political Science programme at VU Amsterdam is personable, international, and engaging. With an annual intake of between 60 and 80 students, our students form an international and diverse community. We use the diversity in cultural backgrounds as we learn and discuss about international political issues and conflicts. Our staff is international as well. Through their research and societal engagement, the lecturers are deeply involved in the topics that they teach.

The way the programme combines a solid basis as a political scientist with the opportunity to specialize in a socially relevant domain is unique and will give you an edge in the job market. You will be prepared for a career in policy making, research, politics, journalism, consultancy or international business.

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Change your world, study Political Science

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