The program’s mission is to develop modern-day problem solvers who can skillfully use dispute resolution processes for the benefit of their clients and society. Through theoretical study, intensive skills training, clinical work, externships, and opportunities for scholarship, students who obtain an LL.M. in Dispute Resolution and Advocacy or a Certificate in Dispute Resolution will form a strong foundation from which to build a career in dispute resolution and advocacy in the U.S. and beyond.
Getting to Know: Dispute Resolution
Learn about our top-rated dispute resolution program from Director and Professor Andrea Schneider.
Kukin by the Numbers
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One of two programs nationally to receive an A+ rating for dispute resolution
A+
preLaw Magazine
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Best Dispute Resolution Law Programs
#5
U.S. News
Letter from the Director
I am honored to serve as the director of the Kukin Program for Conflict Resolution. This program has an illustrious history—built by founding director, colleague, and friend Lela Love—and was one of the earliest DR programs in the country. These crucial dispute resolution and problem-solving skills are more needed than ever--reinforced by the fact that dispute resolution is part of the NextGen bar exam.
I have the privilege of working with extraordinary people who make up the Kukin Program— devoted faculty teaching four DR clinics; numerous talented professors bringing our students the latest in theory and practice innovations; and exceptional students and alumni from around the world who are the heart of the program.
The vibrant Cardozo dispute resolution community is unmatched, and offers students the chance to meet and learn from high-level practitioners in all aspects of the field. Our top-ranked Cardozo Journal of Conflict Resolution hosts an annual symposium on cutting-edge topics and gives the International Advocate for Peace Award to a renowned peacemaker each year. Our DR competition honor society sends teams across the country and around the world, giving students the opportunity to practice their skills in a host of contexts. We continue to expand our LL.M. in Dispute Resolution and Advocacy, hosting students from across the globe.
Cardozo is committed to fostering a culture of problem-solving, and building the next generation of lawyers who can skillfully use dispute resolution in service of their clients and society.
Andrea K. Schneider
Professor of Law, Director, Kukin Program for Conflict Resolution

Dispute Resolution Curriculum
Dispute Resolution Clinical Programs
Dispute Resolution Opportunities for Students
International Dispute Resolution Scholarship
In recognition and support of outstanding students participating in international dispute resolution competitions (including, but not limited to, the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot, the IBA-VIAC CDRC Vienna International Mediation Competition, the ICC International Commercial Mediation Competition, and the CPR International Mediation Competition) Cardozo School of Law in New York City will offer the following scholarship:
Purpose: Promoting academic excellence and the practice of international arbitration.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Active Participation: Must have participated as an oralist, researcher, or coach in the current year’s international dispute resolution competition
- Academic Performance: Must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 or equivalent in their legal studies.
- Commitment to dispute resolution: Demonstration of a keen interest in mediation and/or arbitration through activities beyond the competition, such as attending seminars, workshops, or publishing articles on arbitration.
Scholarship Details:
- Amount: $10,000 per scholarship recipient.
- Number of Scholarships: up to 10 scholarships awarded annually.
- Usage: The Scholarship can be used for tuition fees for further legal education under the Kukin Program for Conflict Resolution at Cardozo School of Law in New York City (in the LLM; Advanced Standing JD; or JSD programs.)
Application Process:
Please submit the following to Dean Val Myteberi at Myteberi@yu.edu
- An email with the subject line, "INTERNATIONAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION."
- Transcript from current or last attended educational institution.
- A personal statement (max 500 words) detailing your experience in the dispute resolution competition, your interest in dispute resolution, and how this scholarship would aid your career goals.
- A letter of recommendation from a coach, professor, or mentor familiar with your participation in the competition.
Deadline: Applications for the scholarship must be submitted by June 15, 2025
*Dean's Merit Scholarship recipients may apply for the International Dispute Resolution Scholarship. Students receiving scholarship funding through a partnership agreement between Cardozo and their home institution may also apply for this scholarship, but they cannot bundle both awards.