ACTS MA Programme

ACTS MA PROGRAMME

The ACTS MA programme offers a unique theory-practice approach to learning conflict transformations as students are exposed to academic theories, research methodologies, and up-to-date analysis of conflicts in the Asia Pacific region. Through a combination of in-person residential seminars and online sessions, students will critically reflect on their own peace practices while sharing lessons and building networks among one another. The students are each other’s resources. Throughout their ACTS journey, students follow the Action Research methodology that has an emphasis on the action and self-reflection cycle and the spirit of inquiry at its core. The process of learning creates a transformative space for student’s personal growth and confidence and translates to their work in the organization.

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

The MA in Applied Conflict Transformation Studies (ACTS) is a specialised academic-practitioner postgraduate programme designed to strengthen the skills, knowledge, and impact of experienced peacebuilders working in complex and evolving conflict environments. Rooted in the robust methodology of Action Research, ACTS equips students to critically reflect on their own work, integrate cutting-edge theories, and apply practical strategies in real-world conflict settings. The programme brings together a diverse range of peace practitioners from across the Asia-Pacific, including civil society leaders, academics, legal professionals, youth advocates, and members of faith-based and community organisations, creating a dynamic, cross-sectoral learning community grounded in shared experiences and regional relevance. Over two years, students engage in a blend of four intensive in-person residential seminars and two robust online modules, allowing for immersive collaboration and flexible learning. What makes ACTS truly unique is its commitment to bridging the gap between theory and practice. Students don’t just study peace, they practice it, refine it, and grow through it. They become part of a broader network of changemakers, supporting one another and co-creating solutions to some of the region’s most pressing conflicts. Fully accredited by Paññãsãstra University of Cambodia (PUC), the ACTS programme represents a high-quality, regionally grounded model of peace education that contributes directly to more resilient communities and more effective peacebuilding across Asia and the Pacific.

 

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

The structure of ACTS is carefully designed to balance rigorous academic study with field-based application, enabling peace practitioners to continue their professional engagement while advancing their academic and practical expertise.
The programme consists of six integrated modules, delivered through a hybrid learning model:
  • Four intensive residential seminars in Cambodia offer immersive, face-to-face engagement with faculty and peers, providing time for critical reflection, knowledge exchange, and collaborative learning grounded in practical experience. One residential seminar is conducted in a third country in Asia  for comparative learning about conflict transformation processes, such as in the Philippines, Nepal, or Sri Lanka. This regional immersion enriches cross-learning understanding of conflict dynamics and strengthens cross-border learning. Residential seminars are 10-14 days, depending on the module.
  • One fully online seminar provides flexibility, enabling students to remain connected to their professional roles while continuing their academic and practitioner development through structured digital engagement and peer dialogue.
  • The programme concludes with an Action Research thesis or applied research project, through which students generate organic, research and practice-based contributions to the field of conflict transformation. These projects are supported by dedicated mentorship and culminate in academic defence.
  • This structure reflects ACTS’ core commitment to learning that is applied, contextual, and collaborative. By combining regional immersion with academic rigour, the programme builds a network of skilled, reflective, and committed peace leaders who are ready to respond to the complex challenges of conflict across the Asia-Pacific.

APPLIED CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION STUDIES CURRICULUM

Instruction: use the text below under the ACTS Curriculum heading

The ACTS MA curriculum unfolds through six progressively designed modules that accompany students on a journey of inquiry, reflection, and applied practice. Grounded in the two pillars of Action Research and Transformative Peace Leadership, each module deepens students’ ability to analyse complex conflicts, engage ethically in peace processes, and lead change in their own contexts. The ACTS Programme uses a systems theory approach to understanding conflict and the role of the self in analysing and working within conflict situations. Understanding that conflict cannot be studied objectively as an external observer, but rather that by observing and studying conflict situations, we influence the events in that conflict situation, the ACTS Programme’s approach allows for integrating theory and practice in a way that is adaptable to the unique contexts students are working in. Throughout the programme, students will gain a holistic understanding of the self and their work within the systems they are situated in. The programme will culminate in an Action Research Project, through which students will apply their academic learning to gain a deeper understanding of their work related to peace and conflict transformation.

Throughout the two years of studies, Action Research and Transformative Peace Leadership run as two threads through all modules of the ACTS Programme, enabling personal and academic reflection. Action Research is a radical, self-reflective and rigorous approach to research, and allows for integrating the students’ practice and academic learning in a way that seeks to strengthen both. Transformative Peace Leadership takes students on a journey that connects their personal commitment, emotional intelligence and work-life balance to their study and wider peace practice.

To learn more about the ACTS Modules, please click here.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Applicants to the ACTS MA programme should demonstrate both professional experience and personal commitment to peacebuilding. Selection is based on the following criteria:

  • Professional Experience: At least five years of experience in peacebuilding or closely related fields (civil society, academia, legal practice, youth or faith-based organisations, government, etc.).
  • Educational Background: A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline.
  • Language Competency:  Proof of English language proficiency through standardised test results (IELTS minimum score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 550 or equivalent).
  • Institutional Support: Endorsement from employer, mentor, or organisation to participate fully in the programme.
  • Regional Relevance: Applicants must be 25 years of age or older and actively engaged in peacebuilding practice within the Asia–Pacific region.
  • Technical Capacity: Reliable internet access to fully participate in online learning modules.
  • Reference Letters: Applicants must submit two reference letters that vouch for their character and strengths

PROGRAMME FEE & SCHOLARSHIP

  • Course Fee: USD 2500 per year ($5000  in total for two years of study). The fee covers university fees, course materials, and learning sessions. The fee does not cover accommodation, meals, or other travel costs for in-person residential seminars.
  • Confirmation Fee: To secure your spot, confirm your enrollment by paying USD 500, which is credited toward the total tuition fee. This fee is fully refunded if the applicant is not accepted into the program.
  • Scholarships: Limited scholarships are available. Students have a higher chance of receiving scholarships if they have raised funds to cover a portion of their costs or course fees.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for the ACTS MA Programme, applicants should:

Complete the Application Form 
Submit the online Google Form, or download it here and email it to [email protected]

Prepare and Submit the Following Documents:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) / résumé
  • Personal statement outlining motivations and goals (with word count)
  • Two references (one academic and one professional)
  • Academic certificates and transcripts (Bachelor’s and High School)
  • Proof of English language competency (IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 550 (within two years after it was taken)
  • Valid passport, with at least one (1) year of validity
  • 1 Passport-size photo

Confirmation of Spot
Selected applicants confirm their spot by paying a $500 fee. This fee is refundable if the applicant is not accepted in the program.