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Advocacy & Dispute Resolution Certificate

Develop real-world skills needed to avoid or end legal conflicts. Explore our alternative dispute resolution certificate program to advocate for clients.

Program Snapshot

JD

Graduate,

90

3 Years

Salem Campus

Three individuals sitting at a table, each using a laptop or tablet in a study area.

Earn a Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution

We encourage externships and hands-on learning experiences. Through our certificate, law students will develop the right skills to become an arbitrator, mediator, negotiator, or ombudsman.

Why pursue a certificate in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) at Willamette?

  • Career options. Adding a certificate to your JD highlights your dedication and prepares you for specific career paths. Take courses taught by active judges and retired Oregon supreme court justices.
  • Advocacy is our strength. Prepare to advocate for your clients through exercises and working with real clients. Our students have secured a variety of externships in advocacy to better their skills in dispute resolution.
  • Explore more paths. Join the Moot Court Board or consider a joint JD/MBA degree. No matter your interests, Willamette offers a variety of paths to get you there.

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Curriculum

Through our learning outcomes, students will develop strong negotiation skills. Learn how to problem solve and manage emotionally charged situations. Take classes in litigation, dispute resolution, negotiation, and arbitration.
  • LAW 278 Negotiation

    Explore advocacy in negotiation through this simulated course. Students will review backgrounds, anticipate issues, propose solutions, negotiate with clients and opposing attorneys, and draft agreements reflecting the terms.

  • LAW 239 Arbitration: Theory & Practice

    Examine commercial and labor arbitration, including arbitration agreements, judicial review, and the enforceability of awards. This course highlights doctrinal study and court rulings, with some practical skill-building components.

Set Yourself Apart with Our Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution

Program Values
As a law school, we're committed to preserving democracy. Our alternative dispute resolution certificate program upholds democratic frameworks through the legal landscape. Learn more about how Willamette protects democracy.
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Get Involved with ADR

No matter what you're interested in, we offer a variety of ways to connect and develop the right skills for your career path. Gain hands-on experience through student groups, centers, and other options on campus.

  • Family Law & Child Advocacy Association

    The Family Law and Child Advocacy Association connects students passionate about family and child law. Connect with peers and lawyers, attend events, and volunteer.

  • Willamette Journal Of International Law And Dispute Resolution

    The Willamette Journal of International Law and Dispute Resolution focuses each issue on a single theme. Gain experience with legal research and review experience.

Program Requirements
Students are required to complete a total of 14 course hours in addition to a capstone. Students can complete their capstone requirement in one of two ways: (1) complete the graduation writing requirement in a course that is both certificate-approved and GWR-approved; or (2) complete an experiential learning course that is both certificate-approved and experiential-learning-approved.
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Admission Details

Only current students can apply to our certificate program. In their online application, students must attest to their academic good standing (i.e. cumulative GPA above 2.30) and provide a 250-word personal statement explaining why they wish to pursue their certificate. The director may cap the size of the program, based on advising capacity and capstone course availability. Please contact the Program Director for further information.

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FAQs

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