BackQueen Margaret University (QMU) is seeking the views of ombudsman organisations regarding the development of a new masters course in dispute resolution. QMU has been running ombudsman and complaint handling training programmes for a number of years and is now seeking to further develop provision for dispute resolvers. A survey has been designed to collect feedback from ombudsman organisations and ensure that the course meets the needs of those working in the dispute resolution sector; the survey has 6 questions and can be accessed here.
The proposed MSc in Dispute Resolution is designed to meet the learning and development needs of the dispute resolution sector (which includes ombudsman, adjudicators, complaint handlers, mediators, negotiators and advocacy staff). It aims to develop the skills of individuals already working in dispute resolution, facilitate staff in moving between different dispute resolution sectors and provide individuals with an opportunity to develop a deeper and broader understanding of dispute resolution theory and practice.
Key facts:
- MSc in Dispute Resolution (also available as a Post Graduate Diploma or a Post Graduate Certificate);
- Indicative content: Conflict theory, psychology of conflict, communication and persuasion, alternative dispute resolution and public policy, the Ombudsman technique, research methods, mediation theory, mediation practice, complaint handling, practice, negotiation and advocacy practice, dissertation;
- Full MSc consists of six 15 credit modules (including a research methods course) and a dissertation;
- Postgraduate diploma consists of six 15 credit modules; Postgraduate certificate consists of four 15 credit modules;
- Flexible delivery (either entirely online distance learning or online distance learning plus Edinburgh-based summer school for modules);
- 1 year full time study, or 2 year part time study;
- Fees for the course have yet to be agreed. However, we expect them to be in line with other similar courses. As an example, the fees for QMU’s MSc in International Management and Leadership are currently set at £6,000 for one year, full time study (pro rate for part time). The fees for students outside the EU are £11,300. Fees for the PGDip and PGCert will be proportionally lower.
Details of the course content, structure and fees are currently under discussion and will be informed by the survey responses and discussions with stakeholders. QMU is grateful for input regarding the above and looks forward to continuing to support the work of ombudsman organisations through our training, research and education programmes.
For further details about the course, please contact Chris Gill, Lecturer in Administrative Justice (cgill@qmu.ac.uk).
Source: Queen Margaret University (QMU), UK
