Program Overview
Conflict is an inevitable part of public life, but it doesn’t have to be a barrier to success when handled effectively, efficiently and respectfully. Study a discipline that will make you the most valuable person in the room. Become an expert in conflict management—your skills will be transferable in any workplace or setting.
Explore the building blocks of dispute resolution, learn how to navigate conversations in the midst of difficult problems in negotiation and mediation, and develop processes for solving complex issues in the face of conflict.
You’ll be equipped with the tools to recognize, understand and alleviate conflict in intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational and governmental settings. Wherever conflict arises, be fully prepared to meet the needs of your workplace, community and family.
The Conflict Management program is offered through in-person classes available in Nashville, Tennessee, and Austin, Texas.
Gainful Employment
The Graduate Certificate in Conflict Management is a Gainful Employment program regulated by the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Education requires additional information be provided to you about this certificate program. For more information view the Gainful Employment Disclosure.
Admissions Requirements
Individuals are welcome to apply to the conflict management program from all academic disciplines and professions. Students with undergraduate degrees from an accredited university will have met all prerequisites.
Applicants to either the graduate certificate or M.A. program in Conflict Management must submit the following for enrollment:
- Graduate Application Form: The Institute for Conflict Management offers graduate programs with two entry points per academic year, August (fall semester) and January (spring semester.) Although we offer rolling admission, all candidates are encouraged to complete the online graduate application at least 4-6 weeks before courses begin.
- Application Fee: A non-refundable $50 application fee must be submitted before the application is evaluated by the admissions committee.
- Résumé: A résumé detailing academic, personal and professional experiences and achievements.
- Official Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities are required. Transcripts must be sent from the university of attendance in order to be considered official and can be either hard copy or electronic.
Graduate Admissions at Lipscomb University
One University Park Drive
Nashville, TN 37204icm@lipscomb.edu - References: Each applicant is required to submit two references. You can either use our form or send from within the online application.
- Personal Statement/Essay: A written response of less than 1,000 words responding to the following questions may be submitted within the online application: (1) What draws you to study conflict management? (2) What are your personal and professional goals and interests? and (3) What are your expectations of this program?
- Standardized examination score OR writing sample:
Accepted standardized test scores include those of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT), Law School Admissions Test (LSAT), Miller Analogies Test (MAT) or Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
The writing sample should demonstrate clarity of thinking, reasoning ability, logic, and strong writing and communication skills. The sample should be an academic or professional document that has been previously written in an academic or professional setting. Previously published work may also be considered. The sample should not be something prepared for the sole purpose of admission to the program. - On-Campus Interview: After all application documents are received and academic requirements are met, an on-campus interview will be scheduled.
Tuition & Aid
Whether in Nashville or Austin, tuition for conflict management courses is approximately $1,091* per credit hour.
Payment is due prior to each class or at the start of the term.
*Note: The graduate tuition rates may increase annually, effective each summer semester.
