ACTS MA Programme

ACTS MA PROGRAMME

The ACTS MA programme offers a unique theory-practice approach to learning conflict transformation, 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 critically reflect on their own peace practices while sharing lessons and building networks with one another. The students are each other’s resources. Throughout their ACTS journey, students follow the Action Research methodology, with 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 students’ personal growth and confidence, and translates to their work in their organisations.

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 methodology of Action Research, ACTS equips students to critically reflect on their own work, integrate emerging 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 cross-sectoral learning community grounded in shared experience and regional relevance. Over two years, students engage in three residential seminars, primarily in Cambodia, and three online modules, allowing for immersive collaboration and flexible learning while remaining active in their professional roles. Students don’t just study conflict transformation, they practice, refine, and grow through it. Fully accredited by Paññāsāstra University of Cambodia (PUC), the ACTS programme is an English-language postgraduate degree, recognised nationally and across the region.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

The ACTS MA runs over two years and consists of six modules, moving from shared theoretical foundations to applied practice:

Year One (2027)

  • Module 1: Introduction to Conflict Transformation (Apr-Jun 2027, Residential, Cambodia, mid-April to mid-May). Drawing on students’ own practice and contexts, this module builds shared analytical foundations while forming the learning community that anchors the whole programme.
  • Module 2: Strategies for Intervention (Jul-Oct 2027, Online, July). Drawing on a specific regional context in the Asia-Pacific, students examine how conflict transformation strategies take shape, what they leave unresolved, and what practitioners need to support genuine transformation.
  • Module 3: Sustaining Peace (Nov 2027-Jan 2028, Residential, Cambodia, Nov-Dec). This module engages reconciliation, and transitional justice through theory and lived practitioner experience, as students develop their Action Research proposals and participate in the annual Peace Practitioners’ Research Conference (PPRC).

Year Two (2028)

  • Module 4: Becoming Agents of Change (Feb-Jun 2028, Online). This module deepens students’ Action Research work, examining how ethical and participatory choices shape the relationship between research and the communities they serve.
  • Module 5: Reflecting on Peace Practice (Jul-Oct 2028, Online). Students consolidate their Action Research findings and strengthen their voice and confidence as peace practitioners.
  • Module 6: Applied Theory of Conflict Transformation (Nov 2028-Feb 2029, Residential, Cambodia). The programme culminates in the academic defence of students’ Action Research, with opportunities for selected students to present at the PPRC.

More information download here.

Interested in ACTS but unsure you would qualify? Ask us about the ACTS Certificate option.

APPLIED CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION STUDIES CURRICULUM

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.

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 Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline
  • Language Competency: IELTS minimum score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 550, or equivalent
  • Institutional Support: Endorsement from employer, mentor, or organisation
  • 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 for online learning
  • Reference Letters: Two letters of reference (one professional, one academic)

PROGRAMME FEE & SCHOLARSHIP

  • Annual Tuition: USD 2,500 per year (USD 5,000 total for two years). This includes university fees, course materials, and learning resources.
  • Deposit Fee: USD 500, due by 28 February 2027. This is credited toward total course costs and is fully refundable if the applicant is not accepted into the programme.
  • Additional Costs: Airfare, accommodation, meals, and travel costs during in-person residential seminars are not included in the tuition fee.
  • Scholarships: Limited partial and full scholarships are available to accepted students. Applicants who can secure partial funding from their own organisations are in a stronger position to receive scholarship support.

HOW TO APPLY

Complete the Application Form
Fill out the Google Form online, or email your application directly to [email protected]

Prepare and Submit the Following Documents:
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) / resume
  • Statement of Motivation
  • Employer statement / recommendation letter from your line manager
  • Two referee forms (minimum)
  • Bachelor’s degree and transcript
  • High school diploma and transcript
  • Proof of English language competency (IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 550, within two years of the test date)
  • Photocopy of a valid passport
Secure Your Place
  • After acceptance, confirm enrolment by paying the USD 500 deposit fee before 28 February 2027.

Application deadline: 30 November 2026

Email: [email protected]