The Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR) prepares you to manage complex conflicts using mediation, arbitration, and negotiation approaches grounded in law, ethics, and practice.You’ll build practical skills through structured coursework and a mediation skills clinic, while learning how to design and lead effective dispute resolution systems in public and private settings.
The Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR) at the University of Southern California equips students with the essential skills and knowledge to navigate and resolve complex conflicts. This program emphasizes mediation, arbitration, and negotiation techniques, all rooted in legal principles, ethical considerations, and practical applications.
Students will gain hands-on experience through a combination of structured coursework and a dedicated mediation skills clinic, preparing them to design and implement effective dispute resolution systems in both public and private sectors.
The curriculum focuses on core topics that are fundamental to understanding and practicing alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Key areas of study include:
Applied learning and professional readiness are key components of the program, supported by the mediation skills clinic and various professional development activities tailored for careers in ADR.
While specific GRE, GMAT, or GPA cut-off requirements have not been outlined, prospective students are encouraged to review the admissions criteria detailed by USC Gould. Additionally, proficiency in English is essential for success in the program.
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