Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Find out more about fees
Program handbook
Description
The Master of Dispute Resolution is focussed on initiatives to encourage graduates to make a difference by improving conflict resolution understandings, skills and options, supporting excellence and encouraging the growth of PhD students in this vibrant area. Having quality, professionally-focused multi-disciplinary postgraduate coursework offerings accords with the strategic trajectory of the University of Newcastle. The Master of Dispute Resolution Program will be ideal for professionals who wish to expand their knowledge and experience to improve their skills and abilities and enhance their professional development. Graduates of this program will be equipped with advanced knowledge and skills, positioning them to engage in further education, research, professional practice and professional development in Australia and across the world.
Program learning outcomes
On successful completion of the program students will have:
- Mastered theoretical and practical knowledge of dispute resolution processes as they operate in national and international environments
- Competence in applying research principles and methodology in advocacy and dispute resolution
- Mastered cognitive, technical and creative skills to recognise, define, analyse and solve complex human problems
- Advanced written and oral communication skills to communicate with a wide range of legal and non-legal audiences
- Critical analysis and decision-making skills to enable an ethical and professional approach when dealing with clients and other professionals
- An awareness of the benefits of an openness to diversity and a capacity for self-reflection
- Interpersonal skills to operate in complex environments, including an ability to effectively work in teams and under pressure
- Specialised knowledge of the principles, practice and processes of alternative dispute resolution
Details
| Information correct as at | Apr 27, 2024 9:13 am |
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| Program code | 40193 |
| AQF level | Level 9 Masters Degree (Coursework) |
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| Duration |
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| Term type | Semesters |
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| Relevant University rules and policies |
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| CRICOS Code | 098481A |
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Admission information
Admission requirements
The Master of Dispute Resolution will equip students with advanced knowledge and skills, positioning them to engage as professionals in the dispute resolution field and as leaders in further education, research, and professional development relating to the field in Australia and across the world. Dispute resolution practitioners are drawn from a range of discipline areas and may have varying disciplinary backgrounds.
Entry into the Master of Dispute Resolution Program (80 units) will be available for applicants who have:
- an AQF Level 8 Honours Bachelor Degree in a professional discipline (e.g., law, education, social science, psychology, science, engineering, architecture, medicine, legal studies, business, commerce or human resources and management); or
- an AQF Level 8 Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in a professional discipline (e.g., law, education, social science, psychology, engineering, legal studies, business, commerce or human resources and management); or
- an AQF Level 7 Bachelor Degree in a professional discipline (e.g., law, education, social science, psychology, engineering, legal studies, business, commerce or human resources and management), and at least one year relevant work experience; or
- an AQF Level 7 Bachelor Degree not in a related discipline, and at least two years of relevant work experience; or
- attained and held National Mediator Accreditation in Australia for a period of no less than three years, or are an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner; or
- at least five years of work experience, of which two years should have been in a management or consultancy position dealing predominantly with complaints management or dispute resolution.
English Language Requirements
All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy here.
- IELTS Overall Minimum: 6.5
- IELTS Sub Test Minimum: 6
Credit transfer
If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.
Academic requirements for program completion
Total units required
80 units
Program duration
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent up to 4 years maximum.
International students studying this program on campus are required to enrol full time to comply with their student visa requirements and complete their study in the standard minimum program duration. International students requiring enrolment advice should review the program plan corresponding to the semester and year of commencement and can contact their Program Advisor at ProgramAdvice@newcastle.edu.au
Program requirements
The Master of Dispute Resolution is an AQF level 9 compliant program. Students will be required to complete a total of 80 units of courses chosen from the Course List to attain the award. These units will be undertaken across one year, or a comparable time when studied part-time.
The Master of Dispute Resolution Program will be offered face to face with students having the option of completing one course (at this time) online.
Program planner
Current students program planner
Current students can plan their program using Program Planner.
Prospective student degree planner
If you're a prospective student considering studying this degree take a look at My Degree Planner to see what your study journey will look like.
Program structure
Students can plan their program using Program Planner. It is recommended students review the program handbook in conjunction with using Program Planner.
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Course list
Students must complete 80 units from the course list below to successfully complete the program. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
| LAWS6032 | Advocacy Skills |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6043 | Advanced Legal Research Project |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6050 | Commercial Dispute Resolution |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6103 | International Arbitration |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6105 | Expert Evidence |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6106 | Advanced Communication Skills |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6107 | Mediation Skills and Theory |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6109 | Restorative Justice |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6111 | Dispute Resolution |
| 10 units |
| LAWS6114 | Negotiation in a Legal Context |
| 10 units |
Additional information
Through the Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre, students can access a free suite of NUPrep preparation courses as well as Academic Learning Support.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can draw on the assistance and support provided by the Indigenous Student Support and Development service through the Wollotuka Institute.
International students
All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University. Please visit our International Students website to find out more about the support services available to international students.
Additional support
AccessAbility provides advice and reasonable adjustments to Students with a medical or health condition or disability. If you require adjustments to undertake your program, contact the Student Support Advisors - AccessAbility before semester or early in the semester. They will work with the College or School to ensure that this happens in a timely manner.
Please note: All students must fulfil the inherent requirements of the programs and courses they are undertaking. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. It is the student's responsibility to check all the requirements of courses, and consider the effects of any medical condition or disability on their ability to complete course requirements. More information is available online.
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