Online Master of Laws in Dispute Resolution (LL.M.)

Solve Today's Most Pressing Business Conflicts

The online Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Dispute Resolution program from Pepperdine Caruso School of Law is designed for lawyers across industries who want to expand their legal knowledge or specialize their law careers. It empowers them with the knowledge they need to resolve conflicts and mediate complex negotiations between people, organizations, and policymakers. As a student in the program, you will learn the root causes of conflict and gain a deep knowledge of arbitration, negotiation, and mediation theory.

In our online Master of Laws in Dispute Resolution program, you will emerge as an effective mediator, arbitrator, and negotiator who can help your clients find a middle ground. You will graduate with advanced knowledge in dispute resolution theory, and with the ability to apply it by solving conflicts for individual clients, families, organizations, government agencies and more.

Complete the program in as few as 12 months full time, or in 24 months part time.

Request Information

What are the key highlights of the Online LL.M. Degree?

#2 for Dispute Resolution Program¹

First Professional Degree or JD Required

GRE/GMAT Scores Not Required

Option to Customize With Electives

¹ Best Dispute Resolution Programs. (Ranked in 2022). U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved April 13, 2023.

Quick Facts

Format:	Online
Length:	12 to 24 months
Units:	26
Courses:	10 units (core), 14 units (electives), 2 units (residencies)
In-person Residencies:	2

Elective Courses

The 14 units that you will dedicate to elective courses will allow you to customize your degree based on your professional goals as an attorney. Elective course topics include divorce and family mediation; environmental and public policy dispute resolution; and conflict and systems design for corporations and organizations.

In-Person Residencies

The program's two weekend-long, in-person residencies take place on Pepperdine University's Malibu campus. During these immersive learning experiences, you will meet with classmates and faculty and engage in hands-on activities while also networking with dispute resolution experts from around the world.

Complete the program in as few as 12 months and propel your law career forward in dispute resolution. Request more information to get started.

Request Information

What Our Students Are Saying About the LL.M.

Read these student profiles to learn more about the Pepperdine Caruso School of Law student experience firsthand.

Explore Student Profiles

Highly Regarded Curriculum

Pepperdine University's online Master of Laws in Dispute Resolution is one of the first of its kind in the US. The curriculum is taught by the same distinguished faculty who teach our on-campus program. You will examine the legal, psychological, and cultural factors that affect conflict and complex negotiations, and apply your learnings during practical experiences on our campus in Malibu.

Student-First Support

The academic success of our students is at the heart of everything we do. We will work closely with you during your time in the program to ensure you receive the most out of your legal education. You will have access to a number of student resources, including:

A dedicated student support advisor
One-click access to 24/7 tech support
One-on-one virtual office hour sessions with your instructors
Virtual study groups with peers

Life after Earning an Online LLM

Our Career and Professional Development department provides resources to connect our students with other like-minded professionals and navigate potential career opportunities. You will have access to a number of career resources, including:

One-on-one advising with an executive coach
Student and alumni job boards
Virtual and in-person networking events

Request Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Master of Laws (LLM) in Dispute Resolution and what are its key learning outcomes?

This master’s degree program prepares you for specialized legal practice. You'll gain expertise in arbitration, negotiation, and mediation with a focus on solving complex conflicts. Graduates are ready to resolve disputes for organizations and government agencies.

Is the program 100% online?

Yes, this LLM in Dispute Resolution program is offered entirely online, providing the flexibility to study from anywhere. Coursework is typically available asynchronously to fit your schedule. However, students are required to attend two weekend residencies.

What are the admission requirements for the Master of Laws (LLM) in Dispute Resolution?

Applicants need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. Submit a resume, transcripts, personal statement, and a letter of recommendation. A specific recommended GPA is not listed. Standardized test scores like the GRE or LSAT are not required.

What is the total cost of tuition and fees for the Online LLM?

Estimated total tuition is approximately $64,320. Additional costs may include residency fees, tech fees, and books. For a full breakdown, visit the program's official tuition page.

How long does it typically take to complete the online Master of Laws (LLM) in Dispute Resolution?

Complete the program in as few as 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time. The flexible pacing is designed to fit your professional and personal schedule.

Is the LLM program accredited, and by which accrediting bodies?

Yes, the program is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and has received acquiescence from the American Bar Association (ABA). This ensures your degree meets high academic standards.

What is the typical curriculum or course structure for the program?

The curriculum offers a comprehensive education in dispute resolution. Key areas of study include negotiation, mediation, and arbitration theory. It includes required courses, two residencies, and an array of electives.

What career paths and job opportunities are available to graduates of the LLM program?

Our graduates pursue diverse leadership roles in legal practice and corporate sectors. Common career paths include Arbitrator, Mediator, and Contract Negotiation Manager.

Earn Your Online MDR from a Top-Ranked Law School

We strive to provide a high-quality legal education for students — and our dedication is paying off. Pepperdine Caruso School of Law is ranked number two in the country for best Dispute Resolution programs by U.S. News & World Report.²

² Best Dispute Resolution Programs. (Ranked in 2022). U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved April 13, 2023.

Request Information

Complete the program in as few as 12 months and propel your law career forward in dispute resolution.
Request more information below to get started.