By Karin Okada, Student in the M.S. in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Program, School of Professional Studies
Coming to the M.S. in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution program at Columbia University School of Professional Studies straight after finishing my undergraduate studies in political science offered an interesting starting point, since it allowed me to engage with conflict as a phenomenon in its own right. Although every conflict has its unique set of factors, including emotions, relationships, and socioeconomic dynamics, one constant remains: There are always two or more stakeholders with conflicting interests and needs. This may seem obvious, but it is necessary to keep this principle in mind without being entangled in the complexity of conflict to find an effective, peaceful, and sustainable resolution.
That said, some contexts do require particular attention, especially those at the intersection of emerging, volatile situations. The two Special Topics courses offered as NECR electives during fall 2025 precisely addressed these contexts and offered focused and timely perspectives on conflict resolution in contemporary society.
Special Topics is composed of 1.5-credit courses that enhance the curriculum through timely, focused learning experiences. Designed to “meet the moment,” these courses give students the opportunity to explore emerging trends, current challenges, and innovative developments in the field as they arise.
In the Ethical AI in Human Rights, Social Justice, and Conflict Resolution course, we explored how humanity should approach responsible and ethical use of AI, an emergent and powerful technology that can exacerbate preexisting conflicts while creating new ones. We examined how certain technologies can reinforce existing biases and impact basic human rights, and we discussed the ethical considerations necessary when applying AI in sensitive contexts.
A group assignment analyzing AI usage across different industries challenged my initial skepticism about the role of AI in society, making me better appreciate how AI can be beneficial if used thoughtfully, ethically, and with clear and good intent. Dr. Flynn Coleman, the course lecturer, said that AI is a “mirror of humanity.” Those words have stuck with me since. I was encouraged to think more objectively about these tools and their impacts before settling on a specific opinion—an important mindset to take in conflict resolution in general.
In contrast, the Conflict Analysis at International Development Organizations (IDOs) course, taught by Catalina Quintero, focused on how different organizations apply conflict resolution theories, tools, and models aligned with their guiding principles, ideologies, and resources, and how these approaches aim to create safer and more equitable environments for those affected by conflict.
A guest lecture by professionals from the United Nations Development Programme was a particularly memorable experience from this course. Speakers shared their real experiences amid the recent hardships these organizations are facing. One speaker emphasized how focusing on local issues is often the most realistic path toward a broader impact, which is another fundamental mindset in conflict resolution. This reminded me of what Professor Peter Coleman said in my first semester in the program: such an approach to the large-scale conflicts that IDOs face daily is the act of “complicating to simplify,” which mitigates the risk of polarization because of an oversimplified understanding of the conflict that ignores on-the-ground realities and efforts.
The Special Topics courses’ 1.5-credit structure offers flexibility, allowing each class to be completed over a single weekend. Given the intensity and duration of the NECR program as a whole, along with the need for students to balance academics with internships and other commitments, this format made it possible to deeply engage with recent and relevant topics in a manageable way. The courses also benefited from the insight of instructors who are active practitioners, and who emphasized practical applicability and real-world problem-solving.
I see clear relevance between these courses and my future career path, especially with regard to how the courses address the most recent transitions occurring in conflict resolution. The Special Topics courses can be an intense experience, given that everything is packed into such a short period of time, but they offer innovative and professional perspectives to our understanding of conflict.
To future students: I suggest that you approach the Special Topics courses not simply as electives but as opportunities to explore emerging issues through questioning assumptions and learning from practitioners.
I hope many students find these courses a meaningful and inspiring part of their NECR experience, as they were for me.
Views and opinions expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Columbia University School of Professional Studies or Columbia University.
Class photo from the NECR fall 2025 course Ethical AI in Human Rights, Social Justice, and Conflict Resolution.
About the Program
Columbia University’s Master of Science in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution prepares students to analyze the root causes and dynamics of conflict and to transform disputes through reasoned and resourceful interventions. The program focuses on developing self-awareness, tenacity, and interpersonal competency; building common ground; opening lines of communication; ensuring representation and recognition; and building sustainable possibilities for resolution.
The priority application deadline for the M.S. in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution program is January 15, with a final deadline of May 1. The program has on-campus and online (with residency) modality options. Learn more about the program here.
