United Nations Institute for Training and Research

Advance your career in development, security and humanitarian affairs by studying online with the United Nations

The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is a dedicated training arm of the United Nations system, whose mandate is to develop individual and institutional capacities for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through outcome-based training and learning initiatives. In relation to the Goal 16 of Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, UNITAR strives to support the (re-)establishment of peaceful, just and inclusive societies by enabling individuals and organizations to contribute meaningfully to sustainable peace.

A full degree or academic specialization/certificate of your choice without leaving your workplace

UNITAR Master degrees are fully accredited academic programmes, offered in partnership with the leading higher education institutions and designed to strengthen capacities and knowledge in the field of peace and security. The programmes are delivered online offering a high degree of flexibility for mid- to upper-level professionals currently working in the field or whose assignments involve a lot of traveling. Each programme has in-built advanced academic modules, which can be taken separately based on individual needs and preferences.

Our 3 accredited academic programmes in peace and security include:

• Master in Conflict, Peace and Security (UNITAR/ Universitat Oberta de Catalunya), plus 2 related Postgraduate Certificates and 4 Specialization Courses
• Master in Electoral Policy and Administration (UNITAR/ Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna/ International IDEA), plus 19 individual modules available separately
• Master in Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding (UNITAR/ Oxford Brookes University), plus a shorter Postgraduate Certificate based on the core modules only

These Master’s programmes represent a new step in the development of adult distance learning by combining fundamental theoretical concepts and their field applications, online and offline components, internships, lectures and peer-to-peer learning and networking and much more.

Additionally, a selection of free open online courses in peace, security and related crosscutting skills is available for everyone willing to get some basic knowledge of the related areas. Currently, we offer 25 MOOCs in 3 languages: English, French and Spanish.

Our unique approach – combining theory and practice

Distinctive features of our Master’s programmes include:

• Online delivery, allowing for a flexible schedule designed to fit the specific needs of full-time working professionals
• Student-centred approach, in which the learner and the learning experience are at the core of the programme
• Lifelong learning approach, in which the workplace is used as the main learning environment
• Access to a unique community of top-ranked professionals and researchers from all around the globe
• Focus on cutting-edge issues and current field practices
• Multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary pedagogy
• Direct access to the United Nations expertise

Join the global community of changemakers

By studying with UNITAR, you will join an international community of over 300 students and alumni from 76 countries working in multilateral and non-governmental organisations at international, regional and national levels.

Find out more in our interactive booklet or contact us at ptp@unitar.org. To apply, visit: www.unitar.org/sustainable-development-goals/peace/our-portfolio/online-learning-and-education