The certificate in Communication Leadership and Conflict Management (CLCM) provides students with a deep understanding of how communication shapes leadership and the resolution of disputes. This specialized credential focuses on the growth and impact of conflict management within the specific context of human interaction.

This certificate is designed for those who wish to master the art of mediation and leadership, preparing them to navigate complex communication challenges across private, public and geopolitical boundaries.

Why Pursue the CLCM Certificate?

• Exclusive Eligibility: This certificate is uniquely available to students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication, allowing them to add a high-level professional specialization to their degree.
• State Certification Path: CLCM certificate holders have the option to become certified in basic mediation by the State of Texas, providing a tangible professional credential recognized outside the university.
• Capstone Expertise: All certificate recipients complete a capstone study specifically focused on the alternative dispute resolution process, ensuring they can apply theoretical conflict management to real-world scenarios.
• Professional Versatility: This certificate is highly beneficial for undergraduate students pursuing diverse career paths, including public leadership, law, management and religious leadership.

Areas of Study

The curriculum focuses on the dynamics of interaction and the tools required to lead through discord. Students gain expertise in:

Interpersonal and Group Mediation

• One-on-one communication strategies
• Navigating private and public boundaries
• Mediating conflict within families and work teams

Organizational and Global Leadership

• Political and Religious Contexts: managing disputes within sensitive organizational structures
• Geopolitical Conflict: understanding the communication hurdles involved in large-scale international or social discord
• Leadership Theory: developing the foundational skills to lead diverse groups toward consensus

Career Opportunities

The CLCM certificate prepares individuals to serve as effective communicators and mediators in a variety of high-stakes environments, including:

• Legal and Public Service: mediators, arbitrators and legal professionals specializing in dispute resolution
• Organizational Management: human resources directors, project managers and executive consultants
• Community and Religious Leadership: clergy, non-profit directors and community organizers
• Government and Diplomacy: public officials and policy advisors managing local or international conflict

Note to Students: This certificate is available only to students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts in Communication. For detailed certificate requirements, please consult with a departmental academic advisor.

Course List

Code	Title	Semester Credit Hours
COMM 324	Communication Leadership and Conflict Management	3
COMM 443	Communication and Conflict	3
COMM 485	Directed Studies	3
Select two of the following:		6
COMM 315	Interpersonal Communication
COMM 325	Persuasion
COMM 335	Intercultural Communication
COMM 420/WGST 420	Gender and Communication
COMM 431	Rhetoric of Social Movements
COMM 440	Political Communication
COMM 447	Communication, Group Processes and Collaboration
Other courses approved by CLCM committee for prescribed electives
Total Semester Credit Hours		15

Students must earn a grade of B or better in each course used to meet the requirements. Students who pursue the certificate must complete all requirements prior to graduation.