Even though conflict has always been a part of history, peace and conflict studies aim to reduce conflict in the future by studying ways to avoid it. This is done by studying causes of violent conflict, then explaining to others how conflict begins and how to manage or avoid it.

Summer courses allow students to take classes and earn academic credit hours during the summertime, when most students are on break. Many schools offer seasonal courses to help students move through their educational programs faster and to gain important skills and knowledge.