Today, we talk about masters in dispute resolution. There are many reasons why one would want a law degree in Dispute resolution. Conflicts are a part of workplaces. Apart from that, other professional environments see disputes too. So, here we are to give you some free legal advice on a degree that teaches you all about the methods to settle disputes outside of court.
Moreover, our article will tell you all about masters in alternative dispute resolution without you ever having to worry about legal billing. Getting this degree involves learning communication skills and getting training on resolving conflicts effectively.
Good communication and building positive relationships are important part of dispute resolution. This is why you should gain knowledge and put that Masters in Dispute Resolution to good use. After all, conflicts are best solved before they get worse.
Why Should You Consider Getting A Masters In Dispute Resolution?
Well, there is no better reason why you’d think of getting masters in dispute resolution than the exciting job opportunities it brings.
Afterall, Workplace Disagreements Can Cost Companies A Lot Of Money
A workplace dispute can is what leads to less work done, loss of employees, and even low revenues. There are even studies that show that workplace conflicts cause over $300 billion in lost paid hours each year. This is a report by the 2008 Human Capital Report by CPP Global,
Getting A Masters In Dispute Resolution Lets You Make A Real Difference In Society
It could start with a Bachelor of Arts or Science. Or, preferably, you could get a bachelor’s in dispute resolution. Therefore, it will perfectly set the stage for a master’s degree.
Remember, most universities accept students from related fields for their dispute resolution masters programs. That is why a degree in history or political science may be more suited than a degree in computes.
A masters degree in dispute resolution offers you complete knowledge on the history of conflict resolution, in theory and in practice. It equips you with problem-solving skills applicable in various settings.
Thus, even if you are a labor lawyer or corporate lawyer working in organizations, communities, and political systems- you are all set when it comes to conflict resolution.
What Do You Learn In A Masters Degree In Dispute Resolution?
A master’s degree in dispute resolution can be a game-changer. With it, you have the power to exercise fairness for those in need. You can help big companies handle disputes efficiently. These programs have various names.
- Masters in Dispute Resolution.
- Master’s in Negotiation and Conflict Management.
- Also, masters in alternative dispute resolution.
Now, no matter the names, each of these teach you to understand conflicts deeply. Through these, you figure out their root causes, and use smart strategies to resolve them. A lawyer who holds a master’s degree in dispute resolution can successfully look after justice for vulnerable communities.
They can making conflict resolution smoother for businesses. Therefore, these degrees give a lawyer the expertise and tools to make a difference.
Types of Dispute Resolution Master’s Degrees
For those aiming to begin a career in dispute resolution, three common master’s types are available.
LL.M.
This is a plain and simple masters degree, Universities offer strictly it for legal professions who are focused on negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution.
Usually, one needs a law degree first. After that, to land a job, they might consider relevant dispute resolution experience. On-campus or online, this degree takes about two years.
Master’s in Dispute Resolution
If you want to become a negotiators or mediators in policy, healthcare, law, human resources, and education, this program can help. It is two-year program on-campus, online, or hybrid, often with an additional project.
MLS with Dispute Resolution Concentration
Well, this degree is a bit different than the rest. It gives non-legal pros legal knowledge and problem-solving skills. The good bits of this degree include flexible options, on-campus or online. Remember, some even come with specialized focuses like divorce and family mediation.
Masters In Dispute Resolution- What Is The Program’s General Duration?
A full-time bachelor’s in dispute resolution can take you four years.
Usually, a full-time master’s degree takes around two years. You will be needing 30-48 credits. Some schools offer a conflict resolution graduate certificate. However, it is a year-long program.
Credits from this certificate can often count towards a master’s. Some schools also offer an accelerated master’s, getting up to 12 credits in the last undergraduate year.
What Are The Best Universities That Offer A Masters In Dispute Resolution?
If you want an offline or online degree in dispute resolution, master’s programs are available across various universities. Thus, we will list out the law schools and state institutions for your convenience.
These programs cater to professionals seeking to boost skills in negotiation, mediation, and facilitation without leaving their full-time jobs.
Typically, these degrees will only take you two years. Moreover, the virtual programs cover the same curriculum as on-campus courses. They might also include a final project or hands-on experience in real-life dispute scenarios. The duration might vary for part-time students.
Top Universities
Several ABA-approved law schools offer a range of masters degrees in dispute resolution. Let us check out some of them.
- American University, Washington College of Law
Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Washington, D.C.
- Faulkner University, Thomas Goode Jones School of Law
Joint J.D./LL.M. in Dispute Resolution in Montgomery, Alabama.
- Fordham University, School of Law
LL.M. in International Dispute Resolution in New York, New York.
- George Washington University, School of Law
LL.M. in Litigation and Dispute Resolution in Washington, D.C.
- Arizona State University, Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law
Master of Legal Studies in Phoenix, Arizona.
These masters in dispute resolution programs vary in their focus areas and locations. They offer choices for those interested in specific aspects of dispute resolution and different study locations.
To Conclude
Masters degree in dispute resolution plays a vital role in sectors such as business, law, healthcare, and education. Studies have shown the importance of these degrees in a 2017 report from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Hence, the report showed that 75% of cases made use of voluntary alternative dispute resolution to find solutions. These programs not only solve issues effectively but also save a lot of money. Therefore, it can prevent long legal battles, making them crucial in various professional fields.
Read Also:
Debkanya is a lawyer turned writer. With an experience of 3 years, she is your go-to source for all things law. She has a soft corner for the US and international section. When the weekend arrives, you'll find her reading up on politics, Austen, or travel blogs over a cup of coffee.
