Continuing Education

Master the art of negotiation and learn how to select the most cost-effective and least intrusive ADR method to achieve a positive result for all parties. Special attention is given to:
• The History of ADR
• The Art of Negotiation
• The Mediation Process
• Arbitration
• Other Forms of ADR
• Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining

Whether you are a paralegal, business professional, or HR executive, it’s important for you to stand out in your field and broaden your knowledge. The ability to effectively manage conflict is a skill that can improve your marketability and increase your earning potential.

Participants will demonstrate the following skills through successful completion of all required coursework and assignments:
• Comprehension of the functions of Alternative Dispute Resolution and its purpose.
• Compare and contrast the differences between Alternative Dispute Resolution and Litigation.
• Examine the different approaches in Negotiations.
• Explain the functions of a mediator.
• Demonstrate problem-solving techniques for mediation.
• Discuss the process of the Summary Jury Trial.
• List the advantages and disadvantages of the Summary Jury Trial.
• Explain the process of the Mini-Trial.
• List the advantages and disadvantages of Mediation-Arbitration.
• Discuss the process of Private Judging.
• List the advantages and disadvantages of Private Judging.
• Explain Early Neutral Evaluation and Private Neutral Fact-Finding.
• List the advantages and disadvantages of Private Neutral Fact-Finding.
• Discuss the “Principle of Exclusivity” and the role of the union as a bargaining representative.

This is an accelerated course. You will be expected to spend an average of at least 8 hours per week reading and completing writing assignments. This course is the equivalent of at least 45 hours of study. Extensions will not be granted. A minimum passing score of 70% is required on all tests and assignments.

Required Textbook:
Alternative Dispute Resolution in a Nutshell, most recent edition, by Jacqueline M. Nolan-Haley, may be purchased from CLS by BARBRI Online Store.
Highly Recommended:
Gilbert Pocket Size Law Dictionary, 3rd Edition, West Academic.
Legal Research Access:
WESTLAW, available for the duration of the course for only $89.

Writing Assignments: Six assignments, each worth 50 points, making up 40% of your grade.
Exams: Two exams, each worth 100 points, making up 40% of your grade.
Class Participation: Participation assignments, making up 20% of your grade.
To pass the course, you must complete every assignment with at least a 70% score.

• The only loan provider PEWD accepts is Sallie Mae.
• When applying for the Continuing Education Private Loan to cover the registration fee for a non-credit continuing education program, please use the UTRGV Continuing Education School Code: 003599.
• The loan amount must be at least $500.00.
• The loan amount in the application cannot exceed the enrollment fee noted on our website.
• Books will NOT be included in the loan amount.
• Service charges may apply.

Submit a required written request via email three business days before the program start date. Weekends are not considered. Partial refunds are not allowed.