Helping To Satisfactorily Resolve Conflict Before It Escalates: Conflict Resolution
Whether financial, political or even emotionally motivated, as long as humans have been interacting with each other there have been conflicts. However, just because certain parties are in disagreement with each other doesn’t mean that the situation can’t be resolved amicably. This is why there is a need for experts in the field of conflict resolution to step in and help resolve situations that could otherwise turn ugly. It is beneficial for any type of business or organization that their workforce or business associates are able to work together without any hassles caused by conflict. If you would like to be the person who everyone turns to in situations where conflict does arise and need addressing then a degree in conflict resolution can be a huge advantage. It can teach you how to handle volatile situations and resolve conflict before it escalates into even more costly or time consuming situations.
Conflict Resolution Degree Information
Conflict Resolution Certificate
Certificates are available in conflict resolution and are aimed at working professionals or people who already have advanced degrees. This type of certificate usually has a minimum of 18 credits with core courses such as introduction to conflict resolution and then electives that can range from conflict in organizations to divorce and child custody mediation as well as conflict and trauma in international settings.
Bachelor of Arts in Conflict Resolution
The Bachelor of Arts in Conflict Resolution program is typically a 56 credit hours course that can help prepare students for careers related to the field of conflict resolution. Core courses may comprise of an introduction to conflict resolution as well as peace studies, conflict management skills and the fundamentals of conflict resolution. Studies usually also have to choose electives that range from consensus building and dialog across difference to gender and conflict resolution, ecology of war and peace, participating in democracy and more.
Master of Arts in Conflict Management and Resolution
The Master of Arts in Conflict Management and Resolution program is a 36 credit hours course that typically takes up to 24 months to complete. The coursework for this type of program may include conflict theory and communication, ethics in conflict resolution, managing conflict in the workplace, negotiation & mediation, practicum in conflict resolution and conflict management systems design. In addition to the value that this degree brings to any job, it can also lead to a career as mediator, facilitator or ombudsman.
Conflict Resolution Degree FAQs
Can I Study For This Type of Degree Online?
Online courses exist for conflict resolution, which enables you to experience lectures via streaming or downloadable video as well as other content. It offers greater flexibility than campus based classes, making it ideal for people who have other obligations during the day, such as work or family. Studying conflict resolution online doesn’t have to be a solitary experience either as it is still possible to interact with professors and other students using instant chat, messaging or discussion forums.
Who Is An Ideal Candidate To Study Conflict Resolution?
A course in conflict resolution can teach you a lot of valuable skills, but there are also a couple of character traits and skills that are very useful to have from the get go. One of these is assertiveness as you must be able to clearly express your views, but without having to resort to aggression, as the latter will only escalate things. Active listening is another very important skill as everyone involved in the conflict must feel like you understand their position in the matter. Since conflict can become very heated, it will be very beneficial to the situation if you are in full control of your emotions. Of course, empathy is just as important as you need to be able to look at the situation from the viewpoint of those who are involved. The ability to remain calm under pressure is a huge advantage as it can help you to better read the verbal as well as nonverbal communication of the involved parties. Finally, you need to be aware enough of differences to behave in a manner that is respectful to those you are attempting to assist.
What Type of Career Options Do I Have After Studying For This Degree?
Unlike many other types of degrees, earning a degree in conflict resolution doesn’t necessarily lead to an independent profession, but instead enhances the skills you might need for a variety of career types. For example, having expertise in a particular field, such as business or law can be used in conjunction with this degree to become an arbitrator, mediator or conciliator. However, job opportunities for people with a conflict resolution degree also exist at consulting firms, community centers, court systems, government agencies, businesses, human resources departments, the military and many more.
How Much Can I Potentially Earn With This Type of Degree?
The salary you can earn with a degree in conflict resolution will depend on the industry where you end up working as well as your role. It is possible to work in positions where conflict resolution isn’t your primary focus, but still a useful skill to have to ensure a harmonious work environment. If you do decide to make conflict resolution a primary focus and work as an arbitrator, mediator or conciliator, your salary could be in the region of $63,930 per year, according to the 2019 media pay stats that the Bureau of Labor Statistics published for this occupation. Their statistics indicate that while salaries for these types of occupations can go as low as $32,550 per year, some of the highest earners made in excess of $123,930 per year. Industries with the highest wages are state government, excluding education and hospitals, followed by local government, excluding education and hospitals. Other high earning industries include legal services as well as finance and insurance. It is also possible to have a different occupation or career and only do part time work as an arbitrator, mediator or conciliator in order to bolster your income.
What Are The Other Advantages To Earning A Conflict Resolution Degree?
Conflict resolution skills are not only very useful for your career, but can make a big difference in your personal life as well. Disagreements can arise from many types of situations and knowing how to deal with it in an efficient manner can be very beneficial for everyone involved. Conflict can also be very stressful, so knowing how to deal with it without raising your stress is also good for your health and wellbeing. Handling conflict resolution in an improper manner can lead to resentment and even irreparable rifts, but resolving it in the proper manner it can actually strengthen bonds.
