---
title: "Peace & Justice Studies B.A. / Minor"
url: "/academics/programs/peace-justice-studies"
type: program
date: 2026-06-19
updated: 2026-08-21
---

# Peace & Justice Studies B.A. / Minor

# Peace &amp; Justice Studies B.A. / Minor

**Understand the roots of conflict and injustice, and build the skills to create a more peaceful world.**

As a Peace and Justice Studies major at Manhattan University, you draw on faculty from across fourteen disciplines to examine structural injustice, the causes of violence, and the movements working toward peace and social justice. One of the first programs of its kind in the world, it pairs rigorous study with hands-on work alongside nonprofits and international organizations near the United Nations, preparing you for careers in nonprofit leadership, law, public service, and human rights.

 

 [ Request Information ](/admissions/undergraduate/request-information) 

 [ Visit Manhattan University ](/admissions/visit) [ Explore Kakos School of Arts and Sciences ](/academics/kakos) 

 Credit Hours120

 Time to Complete4 Years

 

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      ![lady of justice statue with sun behind her](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/justice-peace-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=ck_IBt6N) 

This program is part of [Religion and Philosophy](/academics/kakos/departments/religion-philosophy)

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="what-sets"> What Set's Us Apart </a>The Manhattan University Difference

## What Sets Us Apart

Peace and Justice Studies at Manhattan University is interdisciplinary by design, drawing on faculty from the social sciences, humanities, business, and natural sciences to help you understand and address the world's most pressing challenges. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and rooted in New York City, the program pairs rigorous study with real-world action for peace and justice.

A Pioneering Program

Study in one of the first peace studies programs in the world, established at Manhattan University and recognized in a 1967 letter from Pope Paul VI.

 

 

Interdisciplinary by Design

Draw on faculty from fourteen disciplines across the University, building a flexible major or minor that pairs naturally with business, engineering, and the sciences.

 

 

Conflict Resolution Skills

Learn mediation, negotiation, and diplomacy through coursework and field training that you can apply in your career and your community.

 

 

The Dorothy Day Center

Engage faith-based social justice work and connect with leaders advancing peace and human rights in New York and around the world.

 

 

A Student Voice for Justice

Join Just Peace, the University's student-run social justice organization, and make your voice heard on and off campus.

 

 

Global Lasallian Network

Tap a worldwide Lasallian Catholic network for partnerships and research opportunities that reach far beyond the United States.

 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="why-study"> Why Study Peace &amp; Justice Studies </a>Image

      ![photo of gavel and scales of justice](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/justice-peace-1-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=K9WU7uHe) 

The Manhattan Advantage

## Why Study Peace &amp; Justice Studies at Manhattan University?

At Manhattan University, Peace and Justice Studies students learn to understand the structures behind conflict and injustice and to build practical solutions through research, dialogue, and action. With faculty mentors from across the University, hands-on field experience, and a New York City location just miles from the United Nations, you graduate ready to lead in nonprofits, public service, law, and international organizations, equipped to make meaningful, lasting change.

 

Image

      ![photo of gavel and scales of justice](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/justice-peace-1-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=K9WU7uHe) 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="curriculum"> Courses and Curriculum </a> 

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      ![Aerial photo of New York City](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/nyc-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=p09sBu3Y) 

## Why Study in New York City

Few places put peace and justice work within closer reach than New York City. Manhattan University sits just miles from the United Nations and in the heart of the Bronx, giving students direct access to both international organizations and vibrant local community groups. Through required field experiences, internships, and community-engaged learning, students work alongside partners such as Catholic Charities New York, the New York City Council, the United Nations Staff 1% for Development Fund, and the Dorothy Day Guild. This real-world experience near the heart of New York City helps you build the skills, relationships, and confidence to launch a career in advocacy, nonprofits, public service, or international affairs.

 

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      ![Aerial photo of New York City](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/nyc-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=p09sBu3Y) 

 

## Peace &amp; Justice Studies: Turn Conviction Into Action.

At Manhattan University, Peace and Justice Studies students gain the research, analytical, and advocacy skills that nonprofits, agencies, and graduate programs value, taught by faculty across the University and sharpened through real-world experience. You graduate prepared to analyze injustice, build solutions, and lead change.

Analyze With Evidence

Apply quantitative and qualitative research methods to separate accurate evidence from misinformation and understand complex problems.

 

 

Think Critically About Injustice

Examine the psychological and structural forces that drive conflict, and evaluate the movements working to overcome them.

 

 

Organize and Advocate

Build the community organizing and advocacy skills that move people, institutions, and policy toward justice.

 

 

Resolve Conflict

Develop mediation, negotiation, and diplomacy skills you can apply across careers, communities, and international settings.

 

 

Synthesize Across Disciplines

Connect insights from politics, religion, economics, psychology, and more to design blueprints for lasting peace.

 

 

Engage the Global Community

Bring an international, ethically grounded perspective to the world's most urgent challenges, from human rights to environmental justice.

 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="faculty"> Department Faculty </a>## **Learn From Leaders Across Disciplines**

Peace and Justice Studies draws on expert faculty from fourteen disciplines across Manhattan University, scholars and practitioners in fields from political science and religious studies to economics, environmental science, and communication. Many are active in local, national, and international organizations, including work connected to the United Nations, and they bring that engagement into small classes where they mentor you toward graduate study and careers in peace, justice, and public service.

[Meet Departmental Faculty](/academics/kakos/departments/religion-philosophy/faculty "Faculty | Department of Religion and Philosophy")

 

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    ![Manhattan University students sitting on a bench outside talking](/sites/default/files/styles/square_400/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-bench-kakos.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=7O-wS9Ic) 

About

## The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences

The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. That foundation delivers: Manhattan University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), a measure of how strongly a degree here translates into graduates' career earnings.

 [ Explore Kakos School of Arts and Sciences ](/academics/kakos) 

 

Image

      ![Manhattan University students sitting on a bench outside talking](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-bench-kakos.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=mTaC6uLo) 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="careers"> Careers &amp; Outcomes </a> 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="costs-aid"> Costs &amp; Aid </a>## Program Costs &amp; Financial Aid

Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our **Jasper Guarantee**, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four yearsâ&#128;&#148;ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.

More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.

- [View Tuition &amp; Fees](/admissions/financial-aid/tuition)
- [Explore Financial Aid](/admissions/financial-aid/undergraduate)
- [Learn More About Scholarships](/admissions/financial-aid/loans-grants/scholarships-and-grants)
- [Learn About the Jasper Guarantee](/admissions/undergraduate/jasper-guarantee)

A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.

[Learn More About Costs and Financial Aid](/admissions/financial-aid/)

 

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      ![Manhattan University Admission counselors and students smiling during an open house event](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/3000x2000-admissions-open-house-2025.jpg?h=1cb48fc4&itok=37la0IHA) 

 A Smarter Investment in Your Future

## Jasper Guarantee

At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.

 [ Learn More About the Jasper Guarantee ](/admissions/undergraduate/jasper-guarantee) 

 

Image

      ![Manhattan University Admission counselors and students smiling during an open house event](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/3000x2000-admissions-open-house-2025.jpg?h=1cb48fc4&itok=37la0IHA) 

 

 <a class="paragraph paragraph--type--c20-jump-link paragraph--view-mode--default mu-jump-link-navigation visually-hidden" data-component-id="jasper:jump_link" id="admission-info"> Admission Information </a>## Admissions Information

**Start Your Journey in Peace and Justice Studies**  
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements and key deadlines below to take the next step toward a future in data-driven business.

**Requirements:**

- Application &amp; transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation

**Deadlines:**

- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1

[Admission and Application Process](/admissions/financial-aid/)

### International Students:

Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.

[Learn More about International Financial Aid](/admissions/international/financial-aid/)

 

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      ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43) 

## Prepare for the Real World

At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether youâ&#128;&#153;re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when youâ&#128;&#153;re ready â&#128;&#148; weâ&#128;&#153;re here to help.

[Visit Manhattan University](/admissions/visit)

[Apply Today](/admissions/apply)

[Request Information](/admissions/request-information)

 

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      ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43)