Dispute Resolution

Course Structure

1. The MADR program begins with a one-week immersion where you will meet and work together with your fellow students in the Public Administration (PA) Program because these distinct programs have skills and postures of relevance to each other. The orientation will introduce you to problem-based, applied learning as you work through challenging case studies with your team. Faculty will engage you in concepts directly related to the courses you will take in the program, some with your DR cohort and others with students from the MPA cohort, who are also developing skills for sizing up and addressing complex challenges. The orientation will ground you in the program and prepare you for the stimulating work to come.
2. In the first fall semester, in addition to taking your MADR core courses on Public Policy, Law and Dispute Resolution and Conflict, Culture, and Diversity, you will work with your peers from the MPA program in two courses on Collaboration and Engagement and Analysis for the Public and Non-Profit Sectors. These courses include a team-based integrative case that spans the semester and addresses a real-time significant policy challenge. The case will require you to consider and negotiate the interests of key stakeholders including industry, First Nations, communities, and different levels of governments. Your team will interact with other teams representing these stakeholders, as well as with actual representatives from government agencies in British Columbia. At the end of the semester, you will present your recommendations to these and other interested parties. These \x93PADR\x94 courses are dedicated to fostering skills in facilitation, collaboration, engagement, negotiation, analysis, research design, and policy interventions.
3. In the second term of this first year, you will have the opportunity to participate in the co-op program. Introduction to Professional Practice, PADR 589, instructs students on how to manage and learn from the co-op experience. This course provides practical assistance with basic skills such as preparing resumes, writing letters, interviewing, understanding competencies and networking. Securing a co-op term is a competitive process. You should apply for as many jobs as possible. In later work terms, you may be more selective as you gain work experience with each placement. For their first term, many students take advantage of opportunities that are offered outside Victoria and it is advised to not sign a lease that will disadvantage you from being mobile.