Power, Conflict, and Ideas University of British Columbia

Overview

The M.A. in Power, Conflict, and Ideas at the University of British Columbia provides graduate students with a sophisticated framework for analysing the historical and social forces that shape our modern world. This interdisciplinary programme focuses on the nuanced relationships between governance, social justice, and the history of ideas. Students develop advanced critical skills while investigating the consequences of political and economic inequalities across different societies.

Why Power, Conflict, and Ideas at the University of British Columbia?

Studying this theme at the Okanagan campus offers the advantage of a globally ranked institution within a close-knit, collaborative learning community. The programme draws on the expertise of nationally and internationally recognised researchers from the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Students benefit from a diverse range of teaching perspectives, spanning disciplines such as sociology, history, philosophy, and political science. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates are equipped with versatile analytical tools and a solid foundation in both social theory and ethical frameworks.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 3294 per year
• National fee: CAD 1875 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires 18 credits of coursework followed by the completion of a research thesis. Modules may include:

• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Power and Ideas
• History, Theory, and Method
• Governance, Participation, and Policymaking
• Inequality, Conflict, and Social Justice
• Social Change and the History of Ideas

Careers with Power, Conflict, and Ideas

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for professional roles that require high-level policy analysis, historical inquiry, and sociological research. The skills acquired during the degree support career paths in government agencies, non-profit organisations, and the private sector. Many students also use this master’s degree as a foundation for further academic research or teaching positions within higher education. Focus areas such as archival research and the study of social movements provide graduates with the expertise needed to effect change within various institutional and cultural settings.