Columbia University Launches Graduate Program in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution

Business Wire, Feb 14, 2008

New Master's Program Joins Columbia University's School of Continuing Education Part-time Programs for Working Professionals

NEW YORK -- Columbia University's School of Continuing Education will launch a new Master of Science in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in fall 2008. This graduate degree program is designed to train professionals to be effective negotiators and problem-solvers in a range of fields, including business, law, education, health care, government, human resource management and labor relations.

Through examination of theory and practical methodology, the program focuses on constructive communication, ethical understanding, cultural awareness and sensitivity, counseling and resolving conflicts in ways that are favorable for all parties. Courses examine the psychology of bargaining, coalition development and value distribution, emphasizing the importance of organized preparation and establishing process.

"The mission of Columbia's School of Continuing Education is to mount innovative programs that meet Columbia's standard of excellence and take the best advantage of University resources," notes Peter Awn, Acting Dean of the School of Continuing Education. "This new program, for example, was developed in concert with Columbia's Center for International Conflict Resolution in the School of International and Public Affairs. Some faculty from that center, including its founding director Andrea Bartoli, will teach in this program."

The graduate program's training philosophy is grounded in a commitment to interactive, dialogue-based methods of managing conflict. The focus is on building common ground, establishing dialogue, applying practical skills, ensuring representation and recognition and forging relationships. The 36-point program is designed for part-time study, though students may enroll full-time after the first semester.

This degree joins the School of Continuing Education's current graduate programs for working professionals in Strategic Communications, Technology Management, Fundraising Management, Landscape Design, Construction Administration, Sports Management, Information and Archive Management, and Actuarial Science.

An information session for the M.S. in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2008, at 6:30 p.m. on the Columbia campus. To attend the information session or for more information, go to www.ce.columbia.edu/negotiation, call 212-854-9699 or e-mail ce-info@columbia.edu.