Online Certificate for Peace and Social Good

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Peace Engineering

Drexel University’s online Graduate Certificate in Peace Engineering is a groundbreaking program providing a unique opportunity to study at the intersection of STEM and conflict management.

The 3-course, 9-credit Peace Engineering Certificate introduces you to the field while training you to develop systems-level analysis skills. It features a highly-focused curriculum, developed in collaboration with the U.S. Institute of Peace and the PeaceTech Lab.

The study plan will help you learn critical ways to prevent and reduce conflict. These methods integrate innovative technologies, engineering approaches, policies, and practices of peacebuilders.

Apart from technical competencies, the program will help you understand the human dimensions of conflict. For instance, how working in a conflict zone links with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

As a graduate of the program, you will leave with a toolbox of transferrable skills that will enable you to succeed in peacebuilding and leadership. This makes it an ideal option for FEMA, Army Corps of Engineers, and many other professionals:

• Peacebuilding practitioners who work on issues related to engineering, technology, and infrastructure
• Government and military officers responsible for reconstruction and peacebuilding post-conflict
• Engineers engaged in reconstruction or development work in conflict regions, or where natural resource extraction may lead to conflict

What is Peace Engineering?

Peace engineering is the application of science and engineering principles to promote and support peace and a sustainable future for the planet.

The peace engineering process envisions a world where "prosperity, sustainability, social equity, entrepreneurship, transparency, community voice and engagement, and a culture of quality thrive."

To reach these goals, peace engineering calls for professionals who can come up with technology-based solutions and processes. 

Drexel’s online Engineering Certificate in Peace and Conflict Studies covers key courses to help you understand the peace engineering process:

• Systems Engineering for Peacebuilding
• Introduction to Peacebuilding for Engineers
• Conflict Management for Engineers

What Projects Does an Engineer Work On Related to Conflict Zones?

Engineers in conflict zones may work for humanitarian organizations which help communities in major national disasters or to help with the effects of war. Some of the projects that peace engineers work on include:

• Repair Telecommunications Systems
• Reconstruct Towns, Bridges, and Infrastructure
• Install Water Tanks
• Manage Hydroelectric and Irrigation Projects
• Develop Rural Areas

What is the Average Salary of a Humanitarian or Peace Engineer?

Humanitarian or peace engineers may earn different salaries depending on the type of work they do. Per the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the median annual wage for engineering occupations was $97,310.

Conflict zones may involve many types of engineers—civil, hydraulic, electrical, transport, mining, petroleum, agricultural, etc. Salaries for these professions vary.

*Data from bls.gov

What Can You Do with a Certificate in Peace Studies?

The skills you gain from a peace studies certificate transfer to many settings. Employers look for candidates who can communicate, negotiate, and work in teams. Jobs in conflict zones also require someone who can take into account the environmental, social, and other factors that impact specific projects.

• Electrical Engineer
  After a natural disaster or armed conflict, an electrical engineer may work to bring energy to remote or ravaged areas. Other projects could include planning, installing, and testing solar-powered lights or water heaters.
• Environmental Engineer
  In developing countries, environmental engineers help design systems for accessing clean water and waste disposal. Their research can find new ways to restore contaminated sites, reduce pollution, and positively impact the environment.
• Mechanical Engineer
  In conflict zones, mechanical engineers might design diesel generators to power hospitals. Their design skills may also forge new ways to irrigate fields, grow crops, or process food.
• Civil Engineer
  Infrastructure is often the first thing that cripples a community after a war, emergency, or crisis. Civil engineers plan schools, roads, dams, bridges, and other vital elements to the disaster recovery process.
• Hydrologist
  Water availability, use, and quality is vital to the health of individuals and communities. Hydrologists working in conflict zones team up with engineers to establish safe water sources, predict changes in supply, and mitigate flood risks.
• Computer Systems (Network) Engineer
  Staying connected is a priority in times of conflict and crisis. Network engineers monitor and maintain data networks and telecommunication systems. They also oversee crucial new installations.

Graduate Certificate in Peace Engineering Program Features

The program was designed in response to requests from federal and academic institutions to provide technical training in Peace Engineering without requiring a BS in Engineering or full-time enrollment.

• The only graduate certificate program in Peace Engineering in the nation
• 3 courses (9 credits) that you can complete part-time in less than one year
• Develops the skills necessary to address the needs of society at a grand scale
• Provides opportunities to collaborate with peacebuilding professionals and engineering mentors
• Available entirely online to fit the needs of working professionals

State restrictions may apply to some programs.