Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution
A Message from the Director
The Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution (ICAR) is devoted to the study of protracted conflicts, attending to both the deep-rooted causes as well as the design of effective and lasting interventions. ICAR is the oldest and strongest graduate program in conflict analysis and resolution in the country, offering a masters, a doctorate, and, more recently, a bachelors in conflict analysis and resolution. We also offer a suite of certificate programs for professionals that work on protracted conflicts, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Our faculty, alumni, and students are strongly committed to addressing a broad array of international and domestic deep-rooted conflicts. Our diverse student body, complemented by our excellent faculty, constitutes an interdisciplinary learning community that includes law, anthropology, psychology, philosophy, sociology, and religion. This interdisciplinary context supports ICAR’s focus on conflict dynamics, with attention to globalization, religion, and identity. ICAR’s outreach efforts have contributed to the peace processes and brought capacity building programs to conflict zones throughout the world.
We are in the initial stages of developing a unique training and retreat complex for conflict resolution and reconciliation. Appropriately named Point of View and located in Mason Neck, Virginia, the complex will provide a tranquil setting for high-level domestic and international negotiations, academic research, conferences, workshops, and skills training—all guided by ICAR’s conflict resolution professionals. This complex is made possible by the generous gift of property and funds by Edwin and Helen Lynch, now deceased, who were committed to fostering peace and understanding throughout the world through dialogue and reflection.
I invite you to visit our Arlington campus, meet our world renowned faculty and diverse student body, attend a seminar or working group, and get involved in building a community of professionals dedicated to conflict resolution.
For more information on how you can support and advance ICAR's work, please contact the Office of University Development at 703-993-8647.
Sara Cobb, PhD
Director