Transform Conflict into Resolution
Master the Skills of Conflict Resolution and Earn a Career-Advancing Credential.
Earn the 24-credit Mediation Certificate and be prepared to apply to professional mediation rosters, including the Maine State Court Alternative Dispute Resolution Roster.
The power of mediation
Mediation gives you the skills to help people in conflict communicate more effectively and reach practical agreements. As a neutral third party, you guide conversations toward understanding and resolution in settings such as courts, workplaces, schools, and communities. Mediation is part of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), a field focused on problem-solving, communication, and fair outcomes without going to court.
While some students pursue careers as mediators, many apply mediation skills in other professions. This coursework is especially valuable for those working in human resources, sales, healthcare, education, public service, law enforcement, or roles that involve collaboration and conflict management. Students develop practical skills such as emotional intelligence, active listening, and effective communication that strengthen both professional and personal interactions.
Career Opportunities
A Pathway to Professional Standing
Maine does not issue a single, statewide mediator* license, but approved training is required to be listed on court-connected and professional rosters. These rosters are how mediators are recognized and selected for mediation work in the Maine State court system.
Completing the Mediation Certificate gives you the skills and required training hours (at least 95 hours across the pathway) to apply for professional mediation rosters in Maine and beyond.
*While “Mediator” is a specific title, the majority of related jobs in Maine are listed under titles like Advocate, Ombudsman, Specialist, or Coordinator, where formal mediation training is a primary requirement.
Career Forecast: Mediation in Maine
For UMA graduates, the mediation field offers a flexible, “slow-build” career path with strong professional alignment.
- Entry & Credentials: Graduates meet rigorous training standards, qualifying them for professional mediation rosters in Maine.
- Employment Model: Most begin with a hybrid approach, blending per-diem or contract mediation with roles in law, HR, human services, agriculture, restorative justice, community organizations, health care, educational settings, or numerous avenues of advocacy.
- Income Trajectory: Initial earnings typically range from $35,000 to $45,000, with significant growth potential as you establish a reputation and referral network.
- Long-term Outlook: The field rewards persistence, offering high levels of independence, schedule control, and the ability to scale your impact over time.
Who makes a good mediator?
If you see yourself in the list below, our mediation program may be a strong fit for you.
Mediation can be a good match if you…
stay calm and patient when others are stressed or emotional.
feel curious about different perspectives and what motivates others.
value fairness and are comfortable remaining neutral in difficult conversations.
like helping people communicate, find common ground, and work toward their own solutions.
Why choose UMA?
With us, you can complete the 24-credit Mediation Certificate fully online while staying supported throughout your learning experience.
- You complete the entire certificate online, with flexibility designed for working adults.
- You learn from practicing mediators and experienced Justice Studies faculty.
- You receive ongoing support from faculty and staff who guide you at every step.
- You gain real-world, supervised mediation experience built directly into your coursework.
- UMA is the only school in Maine that includes hands-on mediation practice as part of the program, so you do not have to find training hours on your own.
- You graduate with the skills, experience, and confidence to begin building professional standing in mediation or apply these skills in related fields.
Connected to Justice Studies
UMA’s Mediation Certificate is connected to the Justice Studies program, grounding mediation training in legal, social, and ethical frameworks while offering a clear pathway to a full degree.
Mediation micro-credentials through UMS
In addition to the Mediation Certificate, UMA courses are aligned with the University of Maine System’s mediation micro-credential pathway. While the certificate and micro-credentials are separate credentials, the same coursework can apply to both, allowing students to earn recognized, skill-based credentials along the way.
Successful completion of the first three-credit JUS 391 Mediation course will entitle you to a Level 1 UMS Mediation Microcredential Badge. You will have a unique opportunity to complete all three levels of the Mediation Microcredential through your coursework at UMA.
UMS mediation micro-credentials provide digital validation of mediation competency and can be easily verified by employers through a QR code that appears directly on your university transcript. Learn more about UMS micro-credentials.
Ready to Begin?
Your next step depends on your current student status. You don’t have to figure this out alone. Connecting with the right office early can help ensure you register correctly and understand how the certificate fits your goals.
New to UMA
If you are not currently enrolled at UMA, your first step is to apply. An admissions contact can help you determine whether the Mediation Certificate or another program is the best starting point.
Currently enrolled UMA students
If you are already a UMA student, talk with your Student Services Coordinator or a Justice Studies faculty advisor to discuss how the certificate fits with your current program and course plan.
Non-degree or returning students
If you are planning to take courses as a non-degree student or have questions about registration without financial aid, the Registrar’s Office can help you understand enrollment options and next steps.