Program overview

The Executive Diploma in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is an intensive 40-week programme (160 contact hours) that builds practical skills and theoretical knowledge in mediation, arbitration, negotiation and conciliation. Participants learn to manage disputes across commercial, corporate, family and international settings. Candidates who complete an extended research module and a longer thesis may be awarded the Maestro Philosophiae.

What you will learn (short web copy / hero bullets)

• Foundations of ADR and its role outside traditional litigation.
• Comparative ADR laws and systems.
• Negotiation and advanced communication skills.
• Mediation principles and real-world practice.
• Arbitration practice with comparative case studies (India, Ghana, Canada).
• Ethics and professional standards for ADR practitioners.
• Emerging global trends in ADR and cross-border dispute management.
• Research methods (Maestro Philosophiae candidates only).
• Capstone practicum: simulated mediations/arbitrations, mentorship or internships.

Modules (detailed list)

• Foundations of ADR
• Comparative ADR Laws
• Negotiation and Communication Skills
• Mediation Principles and Practices
• Arbitration Practices (India, Ghana, Canada)
• Ethics and Professional Standards in ADR
• Emerging ADR Trends and Global Perspectives
• Research Methods (only for Maestro Philosophiae candidates)
• Capstone Project & Practicum (simulations, mentorship or placements).

Assessment

• In-class tests and written assignments.
• Case representation and practical simulations.
• Mentorship assessments and practicum performance.
• (Maestro Philosophiae candidates) 20,000-word comparative research thesis (choose two countries for comparative analysis).

Entry requirements

• A first degree in law or social sciences is preferred.
• Applicants with a law diploma or law modules in their degree will be prioritised.
• Candidates with significant professional experience may be accepted subject to assessment and interview.

Duration & study load

• Length: 40 weeks.
• Total instruction hours: 160.

Tuition & fees

• Fees: USD $5,475

Graduates are prepared for careers as mediators, arbitrators, negotiation consultants, ADR legal advisers and conflict-resolution specialists in corporate, government and non-profit sectors. Other roles include court-annexed mediation coordinators, dispute resolution officers, restorative justice practitioners, ADR researchers and academic posts.