The University of Missouri–St. Louis is offering two online labor education courses this fall as part of its Labor Studies Certificate Program. Classes begin Aug. 22.

The online format of the for-credit courses eliminates scheduling conflicts and allows participants to login each week at their own convenience (any time of day or night). This fall’s classes include:

• Collective Bargaining: This course involves the study of collective bargaining processes including contract negotiations, contract administration and methods for the resolution of bargaining disputes. Specific topics include the economic determination of bargaining power, legal constraints on the bargaining process, negotiation strategies and techniques and the use of mediation and arbitration.
• Labor, Power, Policy & the Global Political Economy: This course will examine current issues, trends and developments that are shaping labor in today’s global economy. It will analyze the shifting balance of power between labor and capital, the role of governments and evaluate the strategic options for workers and unions operating in a global environment.

The online UMSL Labor Studies Program gives current and future union leaders, representatives and activists the background and skills needed to deal with the changing workplace and economy.

Students have the opportunity to develop skills of analysis, leadership and organizing that will provide an equal footing with counterparts in the corporate and political world. Completion of the program earns 18 hours toward a degree and a Certificate in Labor Studies.

For more information on how to register, please contact Dave Robertson, chairman of the Department of Political Science at (314) 516-5836 or daverobertson@umsl.edu.