Professional Certificate in Arbitration

Non-Award | 2026

Mode

On campus or online

Start date

February

Campus

Adelaide City Campus

Duration

0.25 year(s) part-time only (no full-time option)

Program code

PCABR

Study as

Part-time only (no full-time option)

Indicative annual fees

$10,500

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

Applicants must hold:

a completed Bachelor degree, OR
a completed Diploma (from either a University or TAFE), OR
a recognised industry-based qualification, OR
at least 2 years professional experience holding a responsible position in a field of practice or discipline.

A comprehensive CV should be uploaded as part of the application for those applicants without a completed qualification (Bachelor, Diploma or industry based).

Why Professional Certificate in Arbitration?

Overview

The Professional Certificate in Arbitration is designed to provide students with an understanding and appreciation of the role of Arbitration and the process and legislative framework of commercial arbitration in Australia. The program is jointly offered by the University of Adelaide and the Resolution Institute. The program is designed for tertiary graduates (degree or diploma), while mature non-degree applicants will be assessed for admission on the basis of their recognised expertise and experience.

Students entering the program would normally be expected to hold a Bachelor of Laws, or a Bachelor of Commerce which includes the study of commercial or business law. Students with other qualifications or significant experience in a relevant field will be assessed on a case by case basis.

This program is generally taught over two semesters and includes a mix of workshops, intensive and online learning. The program is designed for completion in two parts: an introductory course and an advanced course. The introductory course is generally offered within the first semester and the advanced course within the second semester.

The introductory course introduces the concepts, frameworks and practice of dispute resolution through arbitration, while the advanced course provides a greater depth of the understanding, knowledge and skills needed to determine outcomes by arbitration. The most benefit and best understanding of the program content is gained by students who complete within one year.

Applicants are also expected to meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements for Law programs.

The Professional Certificate in Arbitration is a non-AQF program with a standard full-time duration of 0.25 years however can only be taken part-time for a duration of 1 year.

Key features

The Professional Certificate in Arbitration is designed to provide students with an understanding and appreciation of the role of Arbitration and the process and legislative framework of commercial arbitration in Australia. The program is designed for tertiary graduates (degree or diploma), while mature non-degree applicants will be assessed for admission on the basis of their recognised expertise and experience.

The Professional Certificate in Arbitration is a non-AQF program with a standard full-time duration of 0.25 years however can only be taken part-time for a duration of 1 year.

What you'll learn

The Professional Certificate in Arbitration is the only University post-graduate program in Australia focusing exclusively on domestic commercial arbitration as a method of dispute resolution, which also offers students a direct pathway to become an accredited arbitrator. The online learning delivery format offers flexible study options and is open to students across Australia. The content includes highly practical and experiential components, providing students with a solid understanding of arbitration law and practice and its role as a method of dispute resolution within the Australian legal system. This program is jointly offered by the Adelaide University and Resolution Institute.

What courses you'll study

Complete 12 units comprising:

12 units for all Core courses

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Introduction to Arbitration	Course code LAWS5040	Units 6
	Course name Advanced Arbitration	Course code LAWS5041	Units 6

Career outcomes

Career Readiness

This qualification will appeal to those who wish to become qualified Arbitrators and others who are interested in the subject matter to achieve a thorough grounding in the key principles of arbitration. These principles provide a useful framework for dealing with disputes in a broad range of situations.

The Professional Certificate in Arbitration will appeal to highly motivated people in two main categories:

People in professional practice who are likely to be sought after to provide expert advice and services as Arbitrators, and providers of other forms of ADR.
People who are interested in gaining skills and knowledge of dispute resolution procedures to enhance their business and professional knowledge and practices.

This Award qualification attracts a diverse range of applicants including accountants, administrators, architects, engineers, doctors, dentists, lawyers, health professionals, surveyors and valuers, and people involved in the construction, building, finance, insurance, mining and real estate industries. Participants are drawn from both the public and private sectors.

Graduate Attributes

The objective of this program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in Adelaide University Graduate Attributes.
Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth
Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
Teamwork and communication skills
Professionalism and leadership readiness
Intercultural and ethical competency
Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency
Digital capabilities
Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Potential careers

Arbitrator

Ready to apply?

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.