Graduate Programs in Conflict Resolution – Online

Through our master’s degree or certificate program, learn to develop the knowledge and skills to help manage conflict effectively and professionally while fostering relationships and successfully moving parties to agreement.

Overview of Conflict Resolution Programs

ACU offers two options for education in Conflict Resolution. You may choose either the Master of Arts degree or Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution.

The Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation is a 36-hour program designed to prepare students to analyze, address, and manage conflict effectively and professionally. A key feature of the program is its emphasis on reconciliation. The degree serves professionals currently engaged in careers in dispute resolution and other professionals in business, education, counseling, law enforcement, social services and ministry.

The Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution is offered for those students who are not seeking a master’s degree, yet desire specialized education in conflict management. The certificate is a 15 credit-hour program and requires participation in a residency session.

Professional Development Residency (required)

For both the Master’s program and Graduate Certificate, a professional development residency is required. The program 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.

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.


Master the Art of Resolving Conflict

Faculty and students of the ACU Conflict Resolution program share insights into the unique online experience and how the program has provided them an opportunity to expand their knowledge and expertise in conflict resolution, mediation, negotiation, and conflict management.

Program Curriculum – Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation

The M.A. in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation program is a 36-credit hour program comprised of nine courses, a 5-day residency in Abilene, Texas and a practicum. Course Requirements The Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation is a 36-hour program designed to prepare students to analyze, address, and manage conflict effectively and professionally. A [...]

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Program Curriculum – Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution

The Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution is offered for those students who are not seeking a master’s degree, yet desire specialized education in conflict management. Course Requirements The graduate certificate is a 15-credit hour program comprised of 4 courses, plus a residency session. Requirements for the 15-hour Certificate in Conflict Resolution are: FOUNDATION (6 hours) [...]

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Conflict Resolution Residency Session

As part of both the master’s and certificate programs in Conflict Resolution, students are required to attend a five-day residency located on ACU’s campus in Abilene, Texas. The residency session is offered two times each year — in January and June. The Conflict Resolution Residency Session is a series of interactive and informative activities designed [...]

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Learning Outcomes

The graduate programs in Conflict Resolution are designed to equip graduates with skills in reconciliation, which contribute to both personal and professional development. According to a recent student survey, students have reported personal and professional success from earning their degree. What students are saying: 100% of students have applied the skills they learned to both [...]

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Message from the Director

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 [...]

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Faculty

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, Ph.D. Associate Professor; Academic Director, Duncum [...]

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Duncum Center

The Duncum Center for Conflict Resolution at Abilene Christian University opened in December 2007 and is the home of ACU’s conflict resolution and mediation programs. The Duncum Center provides outreach services to individuals, businesses, schools, government agencies, non-profit organizations and churches. These services include training in conflict management, prevention, resolution and reconciliation, as well as [...]

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Webinars

ACU program webinars provide prospective students with the opportunity to discover more about ACU’s Conflict Resolution programs. Attendees get to hear directly from the program faculty, can ask questions and gain perspectives about the program from current students or graduates. Check back for upcoming webinar dates or contact an Enrollment Advisor to find out more. [...]

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