Conflict & Dispute Resolution Studies

The course aims at achieving standards of best practice for those who recognise the value of alternative dispute resolution processes in resolving commercial, community, workplace, international and other disputes and in minimising the damage caused by conflict. Those who complete the course will have a deep understanding of the causes and nature of conflict, the various conflict resolution processes available and how to apply them. CDRS is an accredited training programme with the Mediators' Institute of Ireland. Successful completion of an optional MII Mediation Roleplay Competency Assessment at the end of the CDRS programme will allow students to apply for Certified Mediation status with the Mediators' Institute of Ireland (MII).

Students take 5 modules: Understanding Conflict; Aspects and Dynamics of Mediation; Theories and Processes of International Conflict Resolution; Processes and Skills for Moving Beyond Conflict; Models of Alternative Dispute Resolution. Students are assessed by means of essays, group work, a reflective log and filmed mediation role play. This Postgraduate Diploma course is taught in two evening sessions per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) over 24 teaching weeks between late September and April. There are also four Saturday mediation training workshops, usually in January-March. MII assessments take place on weekends in April-May.

Applicants should normally have an Honors Bachelor degree and three years relevant experience or another third-level qualification and five years relevant experience. Students without the above qualifications will be considered subject to evidence of adequate skills and experience. Students not meeting these criteria may exceptionally be considered at the discretion of the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Closing Date: 31st July 2023

Students are assessed by means of essays, a reflective log and filmed mediation role play.

1 year part-time.

Next Intake September 2020

Career Opportunities
Our graduates find employment in a wide range of careers, such as conflict resolution and mediation, peacebuilding, human rights, international development, NGOs and the non-profit sector, advocacy and activism, the public sector and government, diplomacy, the United Nations and international organisations, research, teaching, journalism, academia and law.