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.

Note: If you are applying for the Continuing Education Private Loan to cover the registration fee for a non-credit continuing education program, then please use the UTRGV Continuing Education School Code: 003599. The loan amount you note in the application cannot exceed the open enrollment fee noted on our website. Books will NOT be included in the loan amount. The minimum for the loans must be $500.00. Some service charges may apply.

*The only loan provider PEWD accepts is Sallie Mae*

Private Loans

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