Key facts
UNE unit code: PEAC552
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

In this unit, you explore the distinctions between peacemaking, peacekeeping and peacebuilding in resolving conflict, and what makes these approaches effective in practice. You also examine reconciliation as a key aspect for achieving enduring post-conflict peace.
You focus on recovery and reconstruction through case studies from Asia, the Pacific, Africa and Europe, analysing the roles of governments, civil society and communities. You examine how governments, NGOs and international agencies support decommissioning weapons and demobilising combatants, economic and socio-cultural reconstruction, and the rebuilding of education and health systems. You also consider gender issues and community-level peacebuilding across religious and sectional divides.
Throughout the unit, you develop strategies for managing, resolving and transforming conflict, and you critically assess debates about the ‘liberal peace’ ideal and the choices societies face between rebuilding and restoring the status quo, or making fundamental transformations.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Contribution to online discussion is encouraged.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- apply an advanced body of knowledge of the issues surrounding recovery and reconstruction after armed conflict;
- analyse the theoretical and practical complexities of agreeing upon and sustaining peace and reconciliation processes;
- demonstrate expert and specialised judgement to complete an applied analysis of the processes needed by countries recovering from armed conflict;
- apply the case study method to critically analyse, compare and contrast peacebuilding processes; and
- employ independent and critical cognitive and creative skills to debate the appropriateness of the "Liberal Peace" model.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Quiz No. Words: 500 (equivalent) |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 2000 |
| Assessment 3 - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Case Study Portfolio with Oral Verification Students must obtain at least 50% in the Assurance Task (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. No. Words: 3000 (equivalent) |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
International Peacebuilding: An Introduction
ISBN: 9781138929098
Ozerdem, A. and Lee, S.Y., Routledge 2015
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?

UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.