(14 academic credits)

Established in 1996, the fourteen-credit Certificate Program in Dispute Resolution helps students to develop their ADR knowledge and skills in an organized, thoughtful, and scholarly way. Students take a foundation course in conflict theory, complemented by three distinct ADR "process" courses: negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. After this nine credit introduction to theory and practice, students round out their certificate curriculum with five elective credits chosen from a rich array of pre-approved elective courses. Over 150 students are currently enrolled, including a broad cross‑section of law and other graduate students, practicing lawyers, human resources and business personnel, and other professionals. This intentional variety of students is designed to mirror the contemporary lawyer's work in increasingly multi‑disciplinary settings.

Curriculum and Program Requirements

To earn the Certificate in Dispute Resolution, students take a foundation course in conflict theory, complemented by three distinct ADR "process" courses: negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. After this nine-credit introduction to theory and practice, students round out their certificate curriculum with five elective credits chosen from a rich array of elective courses.

Four Core Courses (9 Academic Credits)

Theories of Conflict (2 credits)
Qualifying Courses:

Theories of Conflict (J-Term, Summer Institute, Fall or Spring Semester)

Conflict Theories (Spring Semester in the Hamline University School of Business)

Negotiation (2 credits)
Qualifying Courses:

Making and Saving Deals (Summer Institute including Rome Negotiation workshop)

Negotiation (J Term, Summer Institute, Fall and/or Spring Semester)

Negotiation & International Organizations in Norway (Bergen/Oslo Study Abroad)

Mediation (3 credits)
Qualifying Courses:

Mediation (J Term, Summer Institute, Fall or Spring Semester)

Mediation and Other Methods to Foster Democratic Dialogue (Budapest Study Abroad)

Arbitration (2 credits)
Qualifying Courses:

Arbitration (Fall or Spring semester; Summer Institute)

Introduction to the US Law of Arbitration (London Study Abroad)

None of the CDR Certificate "core" courses have prerequisites; however, we recommend that you try to take Theories of Conflict as early as possible in your academic program.

Electives (5 credits)

All courses offered in DRI January Term, Summer Institute, or Study Abroad (other than courses required above). For a complete list of qualifying elective courses, download the CDR Course Planning Guide, which is updated in advance of each registration period.

Why Complete a Certificate in Dispute Resolution?

In a world drawn ever closer by globalization, yet still fractured by historical and cultural division, evolution in conflict resolution management is critical. Embarking on a coordinated body of study will show an employer that you have a serious interest in, and greater understanding of, the rapidly expanding science of conflict resolution. Participating in Certificate program courses will allow you to mix with and learn from: scholars and practitioners who are recognized both nationally and internationally for their expertise; and professionals practicing in a variety of fields. This exposure is extremely valuable in a world where conflict resolvers almost always work in croess-disciplinary teams.

Why Hamline?

Hamline has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report in the top five of American law school dispute resolution programs for eight consecutive years. Our January Term and summer courses (both at home and abroad) enroll a broad cross-section of law and other graduate students practicing lawyers, human resources and business personnel, and other professionals.

Course Availability

Certificate courses are offered during the DRI Summer Institute (late May through early August each year) and during the law school's January Term (typically the first two and a half weeks of each new year). Most Summer Institute courses are designed to accommodate the schedules of working students--with a two credit course most commonly being completed over a ten-day period, using a combination of evening classes and one or two Saturdays. Certificate courses also are offered as part of the law school's January Term and summer study abroad programs. All DRI-sponsored courses are open for enrollment by graduate students and professionals from all fields. As a result, the classroom typically provides a rich, cross-disciplinary learning environment.

With permission of the CDR academic advisor, students may import up to four credits from other graduate institutions (requires syllabus review and advance approval).

Eligibility and Application Process

The Certificate in Dispute Resolution is available for degree-seeking graduate students, attorneys, and other professionals. For applicants not currently enrolled in a graduate program, proof of eligibility for graduate-level education is required (including list of schools attended and submission of official undergraduate or graduate transcripts). To apply, complete and return the application form. After your program application is received, the CDR academic advisor or DRI associate director will contact you to schedule a curriculum-planning meeting.

For more information, contact:

Kitty Atkins, Associate Director
651.523.2897
651.523.3028 (fax)
email: katkins@hamline.edu

Procedure for Obtaining Your Certificate

Certificates are issued three times a year:

at the conclusion of January Term
at the conclusion of Spring Semester
at the conclusion of Summer Term

In order to initiate the printing and issuance of your formal program certificate, it is your responsibility to contact DRI Associate Director Kitty Atkins by the conclusion of the term during which you will complete your last certificate requirement. She will then verify that you have successfully completed the program requirements and sign off on certificate issuance.