DSRGR-MADR - Dispute Resolution

Program Website

Because conflict is a natural and recurring part of all aspects of society, students from all walks of life benefit from a masters study in the interdisciplinary study of dispute resolution and conflict management. The human-centered skills learned in the Master of Arts in Dispute Resolution can enhance current career paths or launch new careers.

Rooted in the social and behavioral sciences, the curriculum provides in-depth study of conflict theory with options for concentration in alternative dispute resolution, organizational transformation and conflict management, leadership coaching, and healthcare collaboration and conflict engagement as they apply to business, family, education, public policy, religion, law and healthcare. Field-based opportunities in a variety of settings further enhance the skills of dispute resolution and conflict management.

Degree Requirements
The Master of Arts in dispute resolution and conflict management (MADR) requires the completion of 36 credit hours with the option of concentrated study. Dispute resolution does not require enrollment minimums per term. Students are advised to take HCIS 6361, HCIS 6362, and HCIS 6363 in their first semester(s). Additionally, students must take HCIS 6367 before the final capstone course, HCIS 6368. All other required and elective courses may be taken in any particular order or sequence. The Master of Arts in Dispute Resolution may be completed in one year at a full-time pace, averaging two-three years part-time, and not to exceed six years.

The M.A.D.R. program requires the completion of 36 credit hours in dispute resolution, 24 of which are required and 12 of which are dispute resolution (HCIS) electives. Note: six hours of elective coursework may be taken in other SMU graduate courses with special permission. Students must complete the degree within six years of the program start date.

Courses are offered on a rotation; consequently all courses may not be offered every term or year.

Completion of HCIS 6363 satisfies the Texas statutory requirement for being a court-connected mediator. Completion of HCIS 6378 in conjunction with HCIS 6363 satisfies the Texas statutory requirement for being a court-connected mediator to extend cases in Texas family law (e.g., divorce, child custody, support. Completion of coaching courses, HCIS 6390, HCIS 6391, and a third course (HCIS 6392, HCIS 6393, HCIS 6394, HCIS 6395, HCIS 6396) may be applied towards the certification requirements for the International Coaching Federation (ICF).