Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution

Mediators have a strong career outlook. Nationally, employment for arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In Texas, employment is expected to increase by approximately 11% over the same period (Texas Workforce Commission / Texas Career Check).

Mediators work in a wide range of industries, including government, non-profits, education, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and finance.

Key skills for mediators include facilitating communication between disputants, clarifying issues and underlying concerns, conducting initial meetings to outline processes, applying relevant laws and policies, and conducting hearings to gather information or evidence. These skills enable mediators to guide parties toward mutual agreement and ensure fair, effective dispute resolution.

After completing the course, you can begin by applying for a TMCA Credential, which demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and may enhance credibility with clients, courts, and organizations. You can define your practice focus (e.g., family, workplace, or community mediation), develop a business plan including marketing and fees, and ensure compliance with any state or local regulations for establishing a small business. Networking with other mediators, joining professional associations, and continuing education can help build your reputation and client base.

Once you complete the course, it’s up to you to build your own mediation practice, and one excellent way to gain experience is by volunteering at a Dispute Resolution Center. This program provides the foundational knowledge you’ll need, but each mediator’s path is unique and may vary depending on interests, goals, and opportunities.

This program is offered by the Organizational Behavior, Coaching, and Consulting (OBCC) division within Executive Education at The University of Texas at Dallas. As a university-based course, it is designed to meet the highest academic and professional standards while fulfilling the live, interactive training requirements of the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association (TMCA). Unlike self-paced online programs, it provides hands-on learning through discussions, role-plays, and mediation simulations—preparing participants for successful practice and TMCA Credentialing eligibility.

Additionally, students and alumni of this program will have access, at no additional cost, to regularly scheduled Expert Forums hosted by the Organizational Behavior, Coaching, and Consulting department, covering topics such as coaching, consulting, leadership, mediation, and conflict resolution.

This program prepares graduates for a TMCA Credential by providing the required 40 classroom hours of mediation training in compliance with Chapter 154.052 (a) of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code in a live and interactive forum. The curriculum covers essential topics like mediation theory, ethics, communication, and conflict resolution.

Students will also engage in participatory activities such as role-plays and mediation simulations, gaining practical experience. Additionally, the program ensures trainees are familiar with the TMCA’s Standards of Practice, Code of Ethics, and Grievance Process, all of which are an integral part of holding a TMCA Credential.

No, a credential is not required to practice mediation in Texas. However, obtaining a credential from the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association (TMCA) offers significant benefits. It reflects a mediator’s commitment to professional standards and ethical practice, enhances credibility, and may be preferred by clients, courts, and organizations seeking qualified mediators. In addition, TMCA Credentialing provides access to a professional network and resources that support ongoing development and adherence to best practices in mediation.

The program is 40 hours and taught entirely online over four weeks, with a wrap-up in week five. A reliable internet connection is required for an optimal classroom experience. Students must attend all classes in full, and a certificate of completion will not be issued until all required sessions have been completed, as SBOT, TMCA, SHRM, and HRCI all require full participation in the 40 hours for eligibility. Students are therefore expected to attend all sessions in their entirety and actively participate in all program activities.

Outside of the 40 classroom hours, additional time is minimal. Any time spent outside of class is optional and depends on the participant’s interest in reviewing the provided reading and reference materials.

If you know you will need to miss two or more classes, it’s recommended that you enroll in the next offering when you can attend all classes. Sessions are not recorded, but if you are unable to attend one, you may be permitted to complete the missed component with a future cohort, working individually with the instructor. Please note that a certificate of completion will only be issued once all required classes have been attended. Missing classes is not recommended, as active participation is essential to the learning experience.

To apply, please submit your application along with a statement explaining your interest in the program. You can apply online. If you have any questions throughout the application process or would like to inquire about a waitlist, do not hesitate to contact the Program Director.