LA County Sheriff's Department University Partnership Program

“The coursework and practical training at Pepperdine, Master's in Dispute Resolution Program, have provided me with tools that go far beyond traditional policing methods. I’ve learned how to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, lead with emotional intelligence, and apply principled negotiation techniques in both professional and community settings. These skills are not only helping me become a more effective leader within my department—they’re also allowing me to contribute to broader conversations around reform, accountability, and restorative justice.

What I appreciate most about the MDR program is how directly it aligns with the evolving needs of law enforcement. In today’s climate, our communities are asking for more than just enforcement—they’re asking for understanding, transparency, and solutions that prioritize long-term peace over short-term control. This program is helping me meet that call.”

Steve Embrich, Deputy Chief (MDR '26)
Commanding Officer, Training Bureau
Los Angeles Police Department

The Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law has partnered with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department University (LASDU), a consortium of universities whose mission is to provide LASDU students with accessible, multi-varied learning programs that will enhance personal and professional growth; promote a lifelong commitment to learning; and enable all Department employees to better serve their community. 

LASD University students and their qualifying family members are eligible for a 5 percent tuition scholarship.  Qualifying members include spouses, and children who apply to the program by age 25.

All academic programs can be pursued on a full time or part time basis with courses available in varying formats (Straus Course Schedule).  All applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree and eligible programs include:

Certificate in Dispute Resolution

This 14-unit program consists of seven academic courses in negotiation, mediation, and arbitration and three elective courses.  The Certificate program is designed to provide a foundation of the various dispute resolution processes.

Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR)

This 26-unit program consists of sixteen academic courses, which include foundational courses in negotiation, mediation, and arbitration and expand into broader courses like Psychology of Conflict, Communication and Conflict, and Cross-Cultural Conflict and Dispute Resolution.  The MDR program focuses more on skills through the Mediation Clinic, where students mediated cases at Los Angeles Superior Court and the externship program.  Participants in this program come from a variety of law and non-law fields.

LLM in Dispute Resolution

The LLM program is an advanced law degree that requires a minimum of a JD or an international law degree. It is a 24-unit program that balances theory through the academic courses, practice through the Mediation Clinic and externship program, and research through the LLM Independent Study. 

For More Information Contact:

Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution
Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law
strausadmissions@pepperdine.edu

Phone: 310-506-4655