Abilene Christian University Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation & Certificate in Conflict Resolution Online Programs Jacob s Dream sculpture site at ACU
Looking at the Big Picture In our practical skills class we ve looked at mediation from many different angels and levels. We ve looked at it from a spiritual aspect, we ve looked at some practical things we do, we ve looked at theory surrounding it; really talking about taking mediation as a craft, something that s artistry. You can get in and do mediation. You can get an agreement. What s really neat about the focus of this course is more about taking the agreement, taking the relationship and preserving something for the future. When you do that, the mediation just transcends mediation and it becomes reconciliation which is a really neat prospect when you re looking at the lives of people. Jody Burch ( 11) Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution & Reconciliation
Welcome to ACU and the Duncum Center for Conflict Resolution. The Duncum Center has provided training and services for individuals and organizations since the year 2000. Building on extensive practical experience and academic training, ACU faculty began offering graduate programs in Conflict Resolution in 2006. Currently, we offer a Graduate Certificate and Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation. These programs are designed to provide students with comprehensive training in conflict resolution built on an in-depth Christian perspective on peacemaking. At ACU, students receive a quality education program in conflict resolution through well-designed online courses and an emphasis on practical experience. Our graduates enhance and develop their conflict resolution and peacemaking skills to enter new careers, or add value to opportunities in their current professions. The academic courses and the experience students gain in our program set them apart. Peacemakers are vital members of any organization and society. The Academic Programs at the Duncum Center are fulfilling the ACU vision of educating Christ-centered, global leaders. We are equipping people around the globe to be professional peacemakers. If you have a heart for helping people resolve their conflicts and find peace, we invite you to join us. Peace and blessings, Garry Bailey, Ph.D. Academic Director and Associate Professor, Duncum Center for Conflict Resolution M E S S A G E F R O M T H E D I R E C T O R
The Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation The Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution is offered for is a 36-hour program designed to prepare students to those students who are not seeking a master s degree, analyze, address, and manage conflict effectively and yet desire specialized education in conflict management. professionally. A key feature of the program is its emphasis The certificate is a 15-credit hour program and requires on reconciliation. The degree serves professionals currently participation in a residency session. engaged in careers in dispute resolution and other P R O G R A M O V E R V I E W professionals in business, education, counseling, law enforcement, social services and ministry. The mission of the Duncum Center for Conflict Resolution is to educate students for Christian service and leadership as peacemakers and ministers of reconciliation. The Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation helps to prepare graduates for leadership roles in careers in dispute resolution and in a wide range of disciplines requiring the effective management of conflict. A residency session is required to successfully complete the program. In addition, 6-credit hours of the program are dedicated to a practicum experience offering the opportunity the enhanced skills development. (Students who have completed the residency session may elect to enroll in a Top 3 skills students say they developed while taking the program: Peacemaking Communication Leadership Surprisingly, the sessions I ve enjoyed the most are the ones I was most afraid of before I came. I was really afraid of the role playing and those have been the part that I have enjoyed the very most; taking the theory, being able to practice it, and coming away with a feeling Oh, I really can do this. Marlene Belliveau ( 11) Certificate in Conflict Resolution one-week intensive residential course in lieu of three hours of practicum credit.)
The M.A. in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation The following courses are required for the CONR 635 - Identity, Culture and Conflict program is a 36-credit hour program comprised of 27-credit hours of coursework and a 6-credit hour practicum. The graduate certificate is a 15-credit hour program comprised of four courses. master s program. Students enrolled in the certificate program may select any two of the following: Examines conflict arising from assertion of individual and shared identity. Explores methods of managing conflict in cross-cultural environments through case study and application. (3 credits) A residency session is required to successfully complete both the master s or certificate programs. The following courses are required for graduation from the master s and certificate programs: CONR 605 - Negotiation and Mediation Comprehensive study of the conceptual and interpersonal skills required to engage in effective negotiation and to serve as a mediator. Emphasis on development of interest-based negotiation and mediation skills with strategies assisting parties in the creation of opportunities for agreement. (6 credits) CONR 601 - Conflict Theory and Communication Designed to prepare professionals for the field of conflict resolution. Provides advanced opportunities to analyze case studies, critique basic assumptions of conflict theories, and role-play appropriate CONR 610 - Managing Conflict in the Workplace* Develops the skills of transforming leadership as students are given the opportunity to identify and manage the signs and root causes of friction, anger, violence and conflict in a workplace setting. (3 credits) * Students may substitute Managing Conflicts in Schools or Managing Conflicts in Churches. CONR 612 - Conflict Management Systems Design Provides a framework for understanding organizational conflict prevention and resolution systems. Analysis of case studies and practical application featured throughout the course. (3 credits) CONR 630 - Advanced Mediation: Marital Disputes Applies the concepts of negotiation and mediation to the resolution of conflicts that arise during and after the termination of a marital relationship. Addresses issues of property distribution, child CONR 637 - Dispute Resolution and the Legal System Explores the dispute resolution process in a variety of cultures and provides context to its application in legal systems. Provides students with an overview of topics such as negotiation, mediation, arbitration and litigation. (3 credits) The following two courses and practicum are required only for the master s program: MGMT 636 - Organizational Behavior Presents individual, group and organizational variables that inhibit or facilitate effective organizational functioning. (3 credits) CONR 638 - Ethics and Conflict Resolution Prepares students to reach a higher critical and reflective consciousness of the relationship of ethics to decision making and problem-solving in conflict resolution. (3 credits) C O U R S E D E S C R I P T I O N S behavior in conflict scenarios. (3 credits) custody and future relationships. (3 credits) CONR 643 - Conflict Practicum A supervised experience for students drawn from a wide range of professions and environments designed to allow actual application of conflict resolution and reconciliation practice. (6 credits)
Professional Development Residency The residency, which is required to successfully complete both the master s or certificate programs in Conflict Resolution, is a four-day professional development series on ACU s campus. In addition, six credit hours of the program are dedicated to a practicum experience offering the opportunity for enhanced skills development. R E S I D E N C Y The residency session is offered twice a year, in January and June. While some lunches are included in the cost of the program, students are responsible for their own lodging, transportation, other meals and any additional costs. Students who have completed the residency session may elect to enroll in a one-week intensive residential course in lieu of three hours of practicum credit.
The strength of the faculty at ACU creates a program unlike any other. Faculty participate in research, are published, act as consultants to colleges and universities and actively participate in professional organizations. They bring vast experience to their classrooms and have a passion for teaching and learning. Garry Bailey Joe L. Cope Associate Professor; Academic Director, Duncum Center for Conflict Resolution B.B.A., ACU, 1985; M.A., ACU, 1987; Ph.D., University of Oklahoma, 1994. Matthew Dodd Assistant Professor B.S., ACU, 1998; M.A. in Communication, ACU, 2001; M.M.F.T. in Marriage and Family Therapy, ACU, 2001; Ph.D. in Family Studies, Texas Woman s University, 2007. Executive Director, Duncum Center for Conflict Resolution; Associate Professor B.A., Texas Tech University, 1977; J.D., Texas Tech University School of Law, 1986; Certificate in Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law. Patty Wenetschlaeger Adjunct Professor B.A.,ACU, 1996; M.S. in Clinical Psychology, ACU, 1998; J.D., Pepperdine University School of Law and Master in Dispute Resolution, 2002. A C U F A C U L T Y Joseph Halbert Adjunct Professor B.A. Abilene Christian University, 2006; J.D. University of Texas School of Law, 2009; M.A. Abilene Christian University, 2010
Enhance the skills you need to succeed The graduate programs in Conflict Resolution are designed to equip graduates with skills in reconciliation, which contribute to both personal L E A R N I N G O U T C O M E S and professional development. According to a recent student survey, students have reported personal and professional success from earning their degree. Results of the survey are listed below. The master s and certificate programs in Conflict Resolution prepare you for a variety of roles and personal success The professional skills learned in the master s and certificate programs in Conflict Resolution can be applied to the following roles: Mediators Paralegals Business Professionals Military Coaches Educators Clergy Counselors Lawyers What students are saying: 100% of students have applied the skills they learned to both their personal and professional lives 100% of students said they would recommend ACU to a friend or colleague 82% of students said they would take another ACU online program
This program is designed to provide learning that is both Primary purposes of the programs are to equip and content-based and experiential. Course design is intentional in enable graduates who: its consideration and integration of the role of Christian faith 1. Are recognized and utilized as peacemakers, in the work of a conflict resolution professional. regardless of their professional or career positions 2. Are well-versed in conflict theory and are equipped L E A R N I N G O U T C O M E S I m a full-time mom, I m a full-time wife and a business woman. To be able to continue my education I was going to basically need to steal time from the early hours of the day and an online program was perfect. [What I ve enjoyed most] are the people: the quality of the professors, the facilitators and even the students that the ACU program has attracted. Valori Hanssen ( 11) Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution & Reconciliation This program offers knowledge and competencies in: Negotiation and mediation principles Conflict theory and communication Organizational behavior Dispute resolution systems Ethics and conflict resolution with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage conflict 3. Possess the capacity for advancement into positions of leadership and service in a wide range of professions 4. Mentor and challenge others to pursue godly lives of collaboration and reconciliation. L E A R N I N G O U T C O M E S
To be admitted unconditionally to the master s How to Apply or certificate in Conflict Resolution programs, A D M I S S I O N R E Q U I R E M E N T S you must: 1. Complete an online application 2. Pay an application fee of $50 3. Submit official transcripts showing all previous college work 4. Complete a bachelor s degree from a regionally accredited university with an approximate B average or above 5. Submit two recommendation forms that indicate support of readiness for graduate study 6. Submit a typed two-page statement of purpose 7. Submit a current resume. Additional departmental reviews of such things as your transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation forms and resume may occur. We are committed to ensuring that the program is right for you and you are right for the program. Note: Transfer credits are not accepted for the Graduate in Conflict Resolution programs. To begin the application process, simply call an enrollment advisor, whose job is to: Counsel you and determine if this program suits your individual goals Guide you through the application process and ensure you meet all deadlines Work with the Admissions Committee on your behalf Call: 1-877-723-1131 Ext. 3524 (U.S. and Canada) or +1-647-722-6641 Ext. 3524 (International). Professionally, graduate school has impacted me by being able to take more leadership roles at work; people notice what I ve learned through my actions and that feels really good. Dustin Eicke ( 10) Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution & Reconciliation
Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Online Program Tuition, Fees and Expenses Below you will find the total tuition costs associated with our Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation online master s and certificate programs. Master s Certificate Tuition (per credit hour) $831 $831 Total Credit Hours 36 15 Application Fee $50 $50 Resource Fee $275 $275 Residency Fee 1 $500 $500 Total Tuition Cost 2 $30,741 $13,290 Note: Students are required to go through a pre-application interview before submitting an application for admission. 1 Please note that students will also incur airfare and hotel expenses related to their travel and stay during the residency. These expenses are contingent upon student s location as well as airfare and hotel rates at the time of scheduling travel arrangements. 2 Total based on current tuition rates, credit hours and fees as shown. In addition to T U I T I O N I N F O R M A T I O N tuition, students can anticipate spending $100-$200 per class for textbooks. Specific details on course materials will be provided prior to registration. Tuition and fees shown here are subject to change. Please speak to an Enrollment Advisor to confirm current tuition rates.
How do I qualify for the Conflict Resolution and How do I apply? You learn how to effectively negotiate, and you learn to manage conflict and work with people. In anything that you do, there is conflict I ve had the opportunity to take the skills I ve learned in this program and apply them to my business. Griffin Gonzalez ( 11) Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution & Reconciliation Reconciliation program? To be eligible for admission to the master s degree or certificate programs in Conflict Resolution, you must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited university. Please see the admission page for full details. Do I need to take the GRE? No, the GRE and other standardized tests are not required for admission to the program. How much does the program cost? Total cost for the M.A. in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation is $30,741 and the Certificate in Conflict Resolution is $13,290. Please see the tuition information page for a detailed list of tuition and fees. What financial aid options are available? Federal financial aid may be available to students who are U.S. citizens or permanents residents. For more information and to complete the online application visit, www.fafsa.ed.gov. Students are always encouraged to seek tuition assistance from their employers first To apply for the Master of Arts or Certificate in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation program, please contact an enrollment advisor. Your enrollment advisor will assist you with the application process, provide you with all necessary materials and work with the Admission Committee on your behalf. To speak to an advisor, please call 1-877-723-1131 Ext. 3524 (U.S. and Canada) or +1-647-722-6641 Ext. 3524 (International). When do I start the program? You may enter the program six times per year. We have two starting points during the fall, spring and summer semesters. How much time is required in this program? This program is designed for working professionals and may be completed in as few as two years. Will my diploma say online degree? No. You will receive the same degree and diploma as students who complete programs on ACU s campus. What types of jobs do students find upon graduating from the Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation F R E Q U E N T L Y A S K E D Q U E S T I O N S and coordinate the balance with financial aid. For some program? programs, we also accept VA Benefits such as the Graduates enjoy careers in a variety of areas, including: Montgomery GI Bill as tuition payment. business, education, counseling, law enforcement, social services and ministry.
A B O U T A B I L E N E C H R I S T I A N U N I V E R S I T Y About the ACU Graduate School Since its founding in 1906, Abilene Christian University s mission has been to prepare students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. In pursuit of this mission, ACU provides an environment for graduate students where they can experience real relationships with both faculty and other students. Students have one-on-one time with faculty members who are interested in both academic and spiritual growth. This close-knit community with an emphasis on Christian faith is dedicated to developing an attitude of global service. The many degree programs offer exceptional educational experiences by combining innovative academic learning styles with practicality. The active Graduate Students Association serves the students by offering professional opportunities, including stipends for students who wish to attend or present work at various academic conferences. Ranking The Princeton Review named ACU as one of the Best in the West for 2014. For additional ranking information, please visit our website at conflictres.acu.edu. About ACU A private Christian university, ACU includes the Graduate School; the Graduate School of Theology; the School of Information Technology and Computing; the School of Social Work; the School of Nursing, and the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Biblical Studies, Business Administration, Education and Human Services, and Honors. It is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and is one of the largest private universities in the Southwest. ACU s current enrollment is about 4,600, including 3,800 undergraduate students and 800 graduate students, generally from 47 states and territories and 43 nations. More than 245 full-time faculty members, 96 percent of whom hold terminal degrees in their fields, are committed to engaging students in authentic spiritual and intellectual growth. Accreditation ACU is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate, master s and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Ga. 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of ACU. I m already using just about all the skills that I ve learned via the ACU curriculum. Conflict resolution is so much a part of my position right now. I m constantly mediating between my coworkers so it s constant. Leah Ominsky ( 11) Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution & Reconciliation
Abilene Christian University has a strong reputation for academic excellence and is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building at ACU
Graduate Programs in Conflict Resolution Abilene, Texas 79699 1-877-723-1131 Ext. 3524 (U.S. and Canada) +1-647-722-6641 Ext. 3524 (International) conflictres@onlineacu.com conflictres.acu.edu MACR_BRO_01_19_2015_68633