Dispute Resolution Certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer from the Graduate Certificate to the Master of Arts?: Yes, with permission. All eighteen credits taken as a Certificate student will transfer to the Master of Arts.
When is your application deadline?: We conduct what is called "rolling admissions." That means that we accept applications throughout the year with final deadlines of 4 weeks prior to the start of semester for all required materials. International Applicant Deadlines are in early May (for fall semester entry) and October (for spring semester entry).
We conduct our search such that there is always space available for students who meet the final deadlines. Although we accept applications after the final deadlines, we do not guarantee that there is space left in the class.
Can I take a class as a non-degree student before I apply?: Yes, you can. Many students do this as a way to "sample" the program before applying.
One or two courses per semester are open to non-degree students. If you take a course as a non-degree student and later enroll in one of our degree programs, the credits will be counted towards your degree. Contact the department, disres@umb.edu, to find out how to enroll as a non-degree student.
What days and times are classes held?: Our classes are held during late afternoon, evening, and occasional weekend hours. Each class meets once per week, generally for 2.5 hours. Weekday classes meet Monday - Thursday during one of three time blocks: 4:15pm to 6:45pm, 6:00pm to 8:30pm and 7:00pm to 9:30pm. Weekend class schedules vary, and are announced well in advance of registration for each scheduled class.
There is one important exception to this general pattern: the internship (DISRES 690). To complete the internship, you must be in court for one morning or afternoon per week for four months.
When do terms start?: As a general rule, the fall term runs from September through December; classes start just after Labor Day and end mid-December. The spring term usually begins the last week of January or first week of February and continues through mid-May. Summer term runs from the beginning of June through mid-July.
Can I study part time?: Yes. Many of our students study part time and hold full time, professional jobs and have family responsibilities. The curriculum is designed to accommodate working adults.
How many credits are required for part time study?: Masters students who study part time take six credits per semester, which usually equals two classes each week. Certificate students may take one class per semester.
If I obtain this certificate and then want to go on to a master’s, will my certificate courses count?: Yes, with approval from the department, credits earned in the certificate program can be applied toward the Master of Arts in Dispute Resolution
How much can I expect to pay per semester?: This costs for attending vary by your resident status (that is, whether or not you are considered a Massachusetts resident), the number of credits for which you register, whether or not you have independent health insurance, and several other factors. Employees of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are eligible for tuition waivers. For a complete (and up-to-date) breakdown of tuition and fees, please visit http://www.umb.edu/students/bursar/tuition_fees.shtml
What kind of funding or scholarship help is available?: Students in both the Graduate Certificate and the Master of Arts are eligible for student loans. For more information on government-supported aid, please contact the Financial Aid office at http://www.umb.edu/students/financial_aid/index.html.
How will I get to know my colleagues and other students?: In class, and at the monthly department Colloquium series. Attendance at the colloquia is a requirement for completion of the Certificate.

Dispute Resolution Certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

About the program