ACU offers new minor in peace and social justice

Beginning next fall, Abilene Christian University will offer a minor in peace and social justice to all undergraduate students. This 18-credit hour interdisciplinary program will complement any major, said Dr. David Dillman, professor of political science and adviser for the minor.

"We are excited about making this minor available to our students," said Dillman. "It focuses on the questions of how humans resolve conflicts and how disputes can give way to peace and justice rather than ruin. The minor draws from the fields of psychology, history, sociology, political science, economics, philosophy, ethics and rhetoric."

The new minor is predicated on the view that peacemaking should be central to the lives of Christians, and it attempts to connect faith and learning directly and explicitly. Students who complete the minor will be exposed to ways of thinking, skills, and experiences that will motivate and prepare them to be active peacemakers. Students will be encouraged to think deeply about peace, and to engage the causes of conflict and violence with hopeful, thoughtful and positive approaches, Dillman said.

"A significant component of educating students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world should be education for peacemaking," said Dillman. "This new minor focuses on the study of the many facets of peace which are central to both service and leadership in a world torn by division and conflict."

To learn more about the peace and social justice minor, contact Dr. Dillman at 325-674-2095 or dillmand@acu.edu.

If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact ACU's Public Relations Office or call (325) 674-2696.