As industries and workplaces become increasingly diverse, complexities and conflicts are inevitable. Businesses often have to face conflicts that may arise with various stakeholders such as clients, suppliers, customers, and even rival firms. Since some issues may be sensitive, it is important to have highly skilled negotiators who use conflict resolution skills to resolve issues, increase productivity, and improve communication among different parties. The field of negotiation and conflict resolution has expanded in recent years. Mediators, arbitrators, and negotiators are a few of the occupations associated with this field. These professionals are in demand in all kinds of industries such as healthcare, law, education, and government sectors.
If you plan to become a negotiator, you could prepare for this area by earning a specialized degree in this field. Many renowned universities are offering negotiation and resolution degrees at all levels. Negotiation and resolution is a dynamic academic discipline that is fast gaining popularity.
Negotiation and Resolution Degrees
Negotiation and resolution degree programs promote the art of negotiation, and offer an interdisciplinary approach towards understanding the field. An associate's degree in this area will emphasize fundamental key concepts; whereas, a bachelor's degree will cover all aspects of negotiation and resolution. A master's degree will provide detailed knowledge on more advanced concepts of negotiation and resolution. Students may also choose to earn online negotiation and resolution degrees if managing college-based classes is not convenient. In an online degree, students are able to create their own schedule without having to worry about attending classes on a campus.
The coursework of negotiation and resolution is aimed at providing students with skill and legal knowledge. Students will learn how to analyze various conflicts in private and federal arenas, and seek suitable legal solutions. The program will also shed light upon common resolution paths adopted by firms today. It is important that students respond critically to conflicts and offer solutions that fit organizational interests. The curriculum will cover a range of theoretical subjects such as the following:
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Public speaking
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Creative problem-solving
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Contemporary US History
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Modern technology
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Corporate law
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Psychology of organization
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Conflict management
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Intercultural communication
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Negotiation techniques
Students will also build necessary skills needed for professionals in today's industry. Some schools also offer case studies and practical projects as a part of the curriculum. The coursework will vary slightly for each school, and may depend upon the level of the program.
Career Opportunities
With a degree in negotiation and resolution, you could seek careers as negotiators, arbitrators, or mediators. The demand for such professionals is high in almost every industry. Healthcare, law, manufacturing, services, and a number of government agencies seek negotiators to handle conflict issues. The income level will vary from place to place and will depend upon factors such as level of degree and skill set. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income of mediators and conciliators was $61,280 in 2012. The growth rate for these occupations is high and is expected to grow in demand in the coming years.