Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) has been an undergraduate major at the University of California, Berkeley since 1985. The founding premise of PACS is that war and other forms of violence, despite their omnipresence, can be mitigated and transformed through the application of knowledge. To this end, the major introduces students to critical analyses of the social, economic, political, and ecological structures of conflict, power, and processes of change. Given the complex and multifaceted nature of violence and its causes, students are expected to approach their studies from a number of interdisciplinary perspectives. PACS majors are encouraged to develop an integrative understanding of peace theory, research, and practice, taking advantage of internship opportunities in both local and global settings.

The PACS major prepares students to contribute to the creation of just, equitable, and peaceful conditions in the world, as citizens and in their chosen careers. The critical perspective and analytical skills acquired equip students for graduate and professional training, as well as for work in corporate, governmental, and non-governmental settings.

Fiat Lux