The Graduate Diploma in Dispute Resolution (GDipDisRes) works from the principles that underpin dispute resolution and management, examining how these principles inform the theoretical and practical aspects of this rapidly changing area of law. It’s available for both law and non-law graduates is ideal for legal practitioners and those working in the design, reform and practice of dispute resolution. Working with judges, legal practitioners and legal researchers who are leaders in their fields, and fellow students from Australia and around the world, you’ll have a unique opportunity to gain advanced understanding of litigation and alternative dispute resolution. Course structure Students must complete four subjects from the prescribed list. Students who do not have a law degree from a common law jurisdiction or any prior legal studies or experience are also expected to complete the two-day preliminary subject Australian Legal Process and Legal Institutions. Subject timing and format The Melbourne Law Masters program has been designed around the busy schedules of working professionals. Subjects are offered from February to December each year. Most subjects are taught intensively, giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the subject content. Intensive subjects are typically taught over five days, either from Monday–Friday or Wednesday–Tuesday, excluding the weekend. This intensive format enables students from interstate or overseas to fly to Melbourne to attend class. Semester-length subjects are generally taught for two hours in the evening each week during the semester. Subjects are taught in an interactive seminar style and class sizes normally range from 20 to 30 students. Duration As a student, you will need to enrol in at least one subject per semester and will have a maximum of two years to complete the course, including any leave of absence. As a student in the Graduate Diploma in Dispute Resolution, you’ll develop an advanced understanding of the complex body of knowledge in the field of dispute resolution, including: The theories and techniques underpinning alternative forms of dispute resolution The frameworks for selected forms of dispute resolution and how to work within them in practice, including the significance of practical considerations Developments in the theory and practice of dispute resolution and a comparison between Australia and other countries.