Introducing the Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution

In a world of rising tensions, the future demands a new way to resolve conflict. OBCC is excited to announce the launch of a new Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution.

Conflict is inevitable, from workplaces to global institutions, and most people are not taught how to navigate it well. The new Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution (MDR), led by instructor Nancy Boyle, responds to this urgent need. Nancy Boyle is Credentialed by the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association (TMCA) and draws on her deep expertise and commitment to constructive engagement. Nancy has designed a course that equips students with practical, human-centered tools for navigating even the most complex disputes. This certificate offers valuable, hands-on training grounded in real-world practice through simulations, case studies, and ethical frameworks, students gain skills that are in high demand across business, education, law, and public service.

Nancy Boyle offers insight into what you can expect from the course:

“We’re living in a time marked by rising interpersonal stressors and widespread breakdowns in communication across workplaces, families, communities, and institutions. People are increasingly encountering conflict they don’t feel equipped to handle. At the same time, courts are overloaded, legal services are often inaccessible, and many organizations are seeking healthier, more effective and efficient ways to address disputes.

I was inspired by the gap between how conflict is typically handled in the real world and how people are prepared to address it. Too often, people are taught either to avoid conflict or to fight their way through it, without learning the skills to engage constructively. I wanted to develop a course that helps students understand not just the techniques of mediation, but the deeper values behind it.  The skills of listening well, supporting informed decision-making, and designing processes that respect the needs of all participants

This course meets a pressing need to prepare people to address conflict thoughtfully, respectfully, and effectively. Mediation and dispute resolution programs offer an alternative to adversarial approaches by centering the participants’ voices, values, and decision-making. The class empowers students with tools for dialogue, problem-solving, and ethical process design which are skills that are essential in business, education, law, public service, and community work.

Students will explore key topics including interests and options negotiation, emotional and cultural dynamics, ethical process design, and preparation practices grounded in real-world systems. Students analyze real disputes, examine multiple mediation and dispute resolution approaches, and gain experience with strategies for helping others communicate, clarify goals, and consider alternatives to possible resolutions. 

Students will engage with a variety of hands-on projects, case studies, and practical tools that help them internalize key concepts and develop real-world skills. These activities are designed to move students beyond theory and into the complex, nuanced work of real conflict engagement.

The Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution program develops critical thinking, empathy, and communication skills that translate well beyond the classroom. Students are better prepared to serve as mediators or simply to handle conflict with greater confidence and clarity.” Nancy Boyle

Explore the Newly Launched Website for the Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution.

Register for the MDR Information Session held on May 29, 2025.