Description:
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process for resolving disputes where neutral intermediaries help conflicting parties have a conversation. Earners of the University of Maine System (UMS) Mediation Micro-Credential demonstrate an intermediate level of competency that can be applied to a wide range of social and professional contexts, including employee-employer disputes, real estate or agricultural conflicts, family matters (i.e. divorce and child-related issues), and restorative justice programs for youth.
Level 1 (40-hour training) meets the Maine State Court Alternative Dispute Resolution Mediation Roster requirements. It can stand alone or serve as a prerequisite for additional training.
The learner’s successful completion of Levels 1, 2, and 3 represents at least 95 hours of knowledge development, rigorous practice, and application of skills, and prepares the learner for more specialized training to advance in the field of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
How can I earn this micro-credential?
University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) Justice Studies Program:
Who is eligible?
UMA students enrolled in JUS391 Mediation (Level 1) and JUS 361 Mediation Practicum (Level 2). Both courses are typically offered online during the fall and spring semesters and may have synchronous meeting requirements.
How can I learn more?
- Visit the UMA Justice Studies page (External Site).
- With questions, contact Karen Groat, Libra Professor of Justice Studies (email: karen.groat@maine.edu) or Sharon McMahon Sawyer, J.D., Associate Professor of Justice Studies (email: sharon.mcmahon@maine.edu)
University of Maine (UMaine):
Cooperative Extension Maine Agricultural Mediation Program (MAMP):
- Level 1 cost ranges from $0 to $1,500.
- The delivery mode is in person, with classes usually located in Bangor. The course is offered once a year, typically in the fall or winter.
- For more information on costs, upcoming dates, and to register, visit the UMaine Extension Agricultural Mediation training page (External Site).
- With questions, email maineagmediation@maine.edu or call 207-955-1977.
Division of Lifelong Learning:
- Level 1 cost is $1,250. Discounts (external link) may be available for those whose employer is a compact member of the Harold Alfond Center for the Advancement of Maine’s Workforce.
- The delivery mode is in person, with classes located in Orono. The course is offered once a year, typically in the summer/fall.
- For more information, upcoming dates and to register, visit the UMaine Division of Lifelong Learning Mediation and the Process of Conflict Transformation page (External Site).
- With questions, contact Kathleen Toole, Professional Development Coordinator (email: um.continuinged@maine.edu).
University of Southern Maine (USM) Professional Development Programs:
- Level 1 (40 hour training) is designed for individuals who are interested in mediating or applying mediation skills to their profession or in their workplace. It can stand alone or serve as a prerequisite for additional training.
- Cost is $1,879. Discounts (external link) are available to nonprofit employees; UMS employees, students, and alumni; and veterans of the armed services.
- Delivery mode: hybrid, with online live and in-person (Portland area) classes. The course is offered once a year, typically in the spring.
- For more information, upcoming dates and to register, visit the USM Professional Development Programs website (External Site).
- With questions, contact Patricia Law, Director of Professional Development Programs (email: usmpdp@maine.edu).
View each level in the badging platform:
Visit the Micro-Credential Pathway for Mediation (External Site).
View full list of Micro-Credentials
Last Updated: 7/15/25