Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution

The 40-hour training covers essential topics for aspiring mediators, including:

1. History of Mediation – Understanding the evolution of mediation.
2. Overview of ADR Legislation in Texas – Key laws governing mediation practice.
3. Conflict Resolution Theory – Theories and methods for resolving conflicts, focusing on interest-based problem-solving.
4. Mediation Theory and Practice – Different mediation models, the mediator’s role, and negotiation approaches.
5. Mediation Process and Techniques – Step-by-step guidance on conducting mediation, including techniques like trust-building and reframing.
6. Self-Awareness – Recognizing how personal biases and traits impact mediation effectiveness.
7. Ethics – Key ethical principles, including neutrality, confidentiality, and conflict of interest.
8. Communication Skills – Enhancing listening, questioning, and drafting agreements.
9. Professional Considerations – Continuing education, networking, and developing a professional identity.

The program combines lectures, group discussions, mediation simulations, role-plays, and observational activities, with at least 50% of time dedicated to interactive, participatory learning. Trainees engage in role-plays as both mediators and disputants, receive individual feedback, and must complete all participatory activities. The program meets the training standards of the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association (TMCA).

We are a university-based program housed within the Naveen Jindal School of Management’s Executive Education department.

Our directors work closely with you during your studies at UT Dallas, which gives you a personalized, concierge-level experience.

Students and alumni of OBCC programs can attend regularly scheduled Expert Forums on a variety of topics (e.g. coaching, consulting, leadership, mediation, conflict resolution) at no extra cost.

When choosing OBCC’s mediation training program, you are selecting a course that meets the training standards of the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association (TMCA). TMCA requires the mediation training program to be live and interactive, meaning participants must engage in real-time, synchronous learning. Self-paced courses, often available online, lack the interactive experience needed to develop the skills for successful mediation practice and are ineligible for TMCA credentialing.

OBCC’s program ensures active participation through live discussions, role-plays, and mediation simulations, providing the hands-on learning required by TMCA standards. This commitment to live, interactive training sets OBCC apart from programs offering self-paced options that do not meet TMCA’s Credentialing criteria.

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.

The certificate consists of a 40-hour program taught entirely online.

Technology allows global connection from mobile devices, tablets, and computers. A high-quality internet connection is required for a strong classroom experience.

Students are required to attend all sessions. If in the event that a student is unable to attend an interactive activity, they may be permitted to complete the missed component with a future cohort of the OBCC Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution program. A certificate of completion will not be issued until all required sessions have been completed. TMCA, SHRM, HRCI and CLE all require full 40 hours of attendance. As such, students are expected to attend all sessions in their entirety.

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.