Online Degrees in Mediation by Program Level

Mediation has become the preferred alternative for contesting parties wishing to resolve their disputes at minimal cost. An online master's degree is a good alternative for people with some legal education, fully trained lawyers or anyone who wants to pursue a career in conflict resolution. Online certificate programs, which take less time to complete, are also available.

Overview of an Online Certificate in Mediation

Online certificate programs in mediation provide a focused introduction to the topic. Students learn to resolve or manage conflict while developing communication and problem-solving skills. Programs emphasize the application of these skills to workplaces, with the aim of enabling students to help organizations implement more effective policies for handling conflict. Candidates for a certificate program typically have a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 grade point average, and take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Program Information and Requirements

Students may complete all courses in an online certificate in mediation entirely online. Assignments, lectures and readings are accessible via a school's website at a student's convenience. Participation in an online certificate program requires a personal computer and Internet access. A certificate can typically be earned in one year or less.

List of Common Mediation Certificate Courses

Certificate mediation programs are generally shortened versions of master's degree mediation programs. All credits earned in a certificate program may be applied towards a master's degree.

Conflict Theory Course

Students in this course learn theories on the sources of conflict and the factors that perpetuate it. Topics explored include conflict between individuals, families, couples and communities.

Consumer Conflict Course

This course examines the relationship between consumers and manufacturers or service providers and sources of conflict between them. Coursework focuses on improving communication between a business and its customers.

Family Conflict Course

Family dynamics and specific points of friction that generate conflict between family members are the focus of this course. Topics considered include spousal, sibling and parent-child relationships.

Career Information for Graduates of a Mediation Certificate Program

An online certificate in mediation can help established professionals in law, public relations or other communications-related fields move into careers as a mediator. Private companies, government agencies, non-profit organizations and non-governmental organizations all employ mediators or use their services as consultants. Growth in the profession has been driven and will continue to be driven by the desire of individuals and companies to avoid the expense, time and uncertainty of litigation.

Continuing Education Information

Graduates of an online certificate program in mediation who want more in-depth training can consider pursing a master's degree in mediation. Several schools offer both certificate and master's degree programs.

---

Overview of an Online Master's Degree in Mediation

An online master's degree program in mediation explores the process of engaging and resolving conflicts. Programs aim to instill theoretical knowledge and practical competence in alternative dispute resolution. Students hone the skills commonly used in mediation, such as conflict analysis, consultation and facilitation. Applicants need to have earned a bachelor's degree and sustained a grade point average of 3.0 or better.

Program Information and Requirements

Courses in an online master's degree program in mediation can be completed entirely online in most cases, although some programs have a brief residency requirement lasting three weeks. Some also specify the sequence in which courses are completed. Student may access all readings, lectures, assignments and any other content via a school's website. A master's degree is typically earned in 2-3 years.
A personal computer, Internet access and basic productivity software are the minimal technical requirements to participate in an online course. Schools may use an educational content management system, such as Blackboard.

List of Common Mediation Master's Degree Courses

Unlike other master's degree programs, the mediation programs at some schools are made up entirely of required courses. In those instances programs typically consist of 12-13 courses. Other programs have a more traditional organization.

Negotiation Course

This course explores the range of tactics people can use when negotiating to secure their own interests or to arrive at an accommodation between contending parties. Course work considers the ethical, cultural and historical dimensions of negotiation.

Organizational Conflict Course

This course focuses specifically on conflict within groups and organizations and strategies for resolving it. The syllabus emphasizes institutional culture and the process of engaging broad constituencies.

Global Mediation Course

Students in this course examine the special challenges of conflict resolution across national, ethnic and cultural boundaries. Coursework draws on current global conflicts and the efforts to find solutions for them.

Career Information for Mediation Graduates

An online master's degree in mediation qualifies graduates to become mediators, also known as arbitrators or conciliators. Positions are available at a number of local, state, national and international organizations that offer mediation services. Alternatively, a degree holder may attempt to run an independent mediation business. However, independent business owners may find themselves spending more time on marketing than on mediating disputes. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that over the years 2008-2018 employment of mediators will grow by 22% (www.bls.gov). Payscale.com reports that as of May 2010, mediators with 1-4 years of experience earned a median salary of $32,269-$54,948.