Mediation entails a third-party intervention designed to assist parties in managing conflict. Trained mediators are impartial process experts who learn to utilize communication and conflict philosophy and theories to increase the probability of more favorable outcomes between parties in conflict. The undergraduate certificate is designed for communication majors or any student interested in developing practical skills in alternative dispute resolution. The courses in this certificate focus on alternative dispute processes that include strategies for managing conflict in personal, public, legal, political, governmental and corporate contexts.
Certificate Requirements
The Undergraduate Certificate in Mediation requires 12 credits hours (four courses).
Required Courses
Students must complete the following core course:
In addition, students must complete at least one of the following two courses (students who take both classes take one elective rather than two; students who take only one class must select two electives):
- 4255 Negotiations and Bargaining
- 4260 Communication and Conflict
Elective Courses
Students choose one or two additional class from among the following:
- 4681 Communication Issues in Trial Court Practices and Processes
Students may be allowed to take courses other than those on this list to fulfill the requirements for the certificate if those courses fit their professional goals better. Requests for approval for different courses should be made in writing to Larry Erbert, Plaza 102-D. Requests should include an explanation of the relevance of the course(s) to be substituted to the student's professional goals and the certificate. Such courses must be taught in the Communication Department at the University of Colorado Denver. Only one course may be substituted.
Grade and Residency Requirements
The grade of B or higher must be earned in each course completed as part of the certificate (a grade of B- is not acceptable). All of the credit hours for the certificate must be earned at the University of Colorado Denver.
Application Procedures
Students should apply for the Undergraduate Certificate in Mediation only after the completion of the required courses. To apply, students must print and attach the completed mediation application to an unofficial transcript. These documents should be submitted to Professor Larry Erbert for review. Once the application is approved, a certificate will be mailed to the student.
Non-Degree Seeking Application Procedures
If you are a non-degree seeking student, you can apply by downloading and completing the Application for Non-Degree Admission form and return it electronically or drop it off at the Office of Admissions located in the Annex Building of the CU Building at the corner of 14th and Larimer. After your application has been approved, you will be able to enroll for the certificate program.
Additional Information
Additional information about the Undergraduate Certificate in Mediation may be obtained from Professor Larry Erbert, Plaza Building, room 102-D, 303-556-5858, Larry.Erbert@ucdenver.edu.