Learn to understand, manage and resolve conflict in all its forms across the modern workplace.

Conflict is a constant in every organization, and it grows more complex as leaders navigate disruption from artificial intelligence, restructuring, personality clashes, operational breakdowns, cultural differences and generational diversity. This certification moves beyond traditional negotiation and mediation skills to build a deeper understanding of why conflict happens and how to resolve it. Grounded in the study of communication and the psychological and sociological dynamics of conflict, participants learn to solve problems within themselves, within their teams and across their organizations with composure, clarity and skill. 

• Managers and leaders who want to address team conflict with greater confidence and skill
• Executives and senior professionals responsible for leading through change and disruption
• Professionals working across cultures, geographies and generations
• Anyone seeking to become a more effective problem solver within themselves, their teams and their organizations

The Conflict Management Certification consists of six modules that cover a range of topics, including: 

• Sources and dynamics of workplace conflict
• Self-awareness and self-management under pressure
• Communication styles, personality and misalignment
• Cultural and generational dimensions of conflict
• Power, social norms and escalation
• Facilitating resolution and conflict transformation

You will learn to manage conflict within yourself, your team and your organization, including how to:

• Recognize the true sources of conflict before they escalate.
• Manage your own emotions and remain composed under pressure.
• Diagnose the systemic and operational issues that create recurring organizational conflict.
• Design more responsive systems that address issues without harming people.
• Apply an integrated conflict management system to real-world challenges.
• Move beyond resolving conflict to transforming it into growth.

• Interactive lectures and live case discussions
• Peer learning and roleplay practice
• Reflection prompts and skill-based assignments

• Seven synchronous two-hour sessions hosted virtually via Zoom
• Prework and targeted weekly assignments

• Develop a conflict management strategy based on a real-world workplace scenario
• Submit a brief video reflection of the program experience

• Gain a working command of conflict across the interpersonal and intergroup dynamics.
• Learn practical tools to turn tension into growth and lead people through change without losing them.
• Leave with a tested strategy and real-world experience, plus a University at Buffalo micro-credential and digital badge.

Ryan Dunlap
Biography [PDF]

Cost: $2,500

Program Dates: 6-8 p.m. ET on Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 and Nov. 2, 9, 16

UB faculty, staff and students: Contact mgt-clgi@buffalo.edu for discount pricing.

Virtual Open House
Hear from Ryan Dunlap, CEO and founder of Conflictish, about how the Conflict Management Certification will strengthen your ability to lead with composure and empathy in diverse work environments.