Studies in War and Peace

Mission

The Studies in War and Peace (SWAP) program examines the origins and development of military institutions and the impact of these institutions upon the social order. The program promotes critical analysis of phenomena relating to military and diplomatic affairs, past and present, and is equally suitable for all students including cadets. It provides an interdisciplinary examination of the enduring and close interconnections among military, political, economic, and social institutions. The SWAP program is an extension of the Norwich University citizen-soldier tradition of producing educated graduates who are prepared for either military or civilian pursuits, and who are knowledgeable about diplomatic and military affairs.

Goals

• Understand how global forces affect the growth and interplay of military and political institutions.

• Analyze how different cultures engage in warfare and seek to create the conditions for peace.

• Display an ability to engage in critical thinking and analysis of major historical, political, and ethical issues

Potential Careers

• Military Officer

• Lawyer

• Historian or Political Scientist

• Teacher

• Intelligence Officer

• Any career that requires critical thinking, analytical, problem solving, and communications skills.

There are no additional criteria to declare this major.

Accelerated Master's Pathway

Students must meet ALL of the following requirements and apply, when appropriate, to the graduate program in addition to the accelerated pathway criteria.

1. Academic Standing

• Must have achieved junior or senior standing (minimum 60 credits completed)

• Must be SWAP, History, International Studies or Political Science majors in good academic standing.

2. Grade Point Average

• Must maintain a cumulative GPA of a 3.0 or higher at the time of application.

• Must earn a grade of B or higher for the graduate course to meet graduate course requirements.

3. Prerequisite Coursework

• Must have completed foundational coursework in the major: History, International Studies, Political Science or SWAP as determined by their faculty advisor

4. Online Learning Commitment

• Must commit to full participation in the online learning environment

• Must engage in all activities, discussions, and assignments

5. Application Requirements

Students must submit a complete application packet to the department including:

• Current official transcript showing 3.0 cumulative GPA

• Statement of purpose (500-750 words) articulating:

  • How the graduate course relates to their studies and career goals

  • Preparedness for graduate-level work

  • Specific interest in either GD510 or GD511

• Letter of recommendation from a faculty member in the major addressing the student's readiness for graduate work

• Written approval from undergraduate academic advisor

• Brief writing sample demonstrating analytical and research capabilities

6. Course Limitation

• Only one course (either GD510 or GD511) during their undergraduate career is permitted under this pathway

• The course must be taken during junior or senior year