Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Online

This course equips participants with a sound knowledge base in critical multicultural principles and strategies. It provides both definition and rationale. Employing historical perspective, and through the use of lecture, video analysis and class reflection, it traces the development of cultures, prejudices, and stereotypes in American society and relates them to economic and political factors. Participants apply this information and knowledge to many different communities and formulate a personal philosophy and perspective of multiculturalism that apply specifically to create, support and advance diversity, inclusion and equity.

This course equips students with a sound knowledge base in cross cultural communication. It provides both definition and rationale. Employing a theoretical approach, and through the use of lecture, video analysis and class reflection, the course considers the dynamics and influence of cultural diversity in everyday communication. Students will apply this to a variety of settings, such as the urban classroom and the workplace. They will formulate a personal and professional strategy for engaging in cross cultural communication. Modifications of the syllabus may be necessary, and will be announced by the instructor to the class. This course focuses on self-awareness, group dynamics, effective communication and conflict resolution with an emphasis on cross cultural interactions and prejudice reduction.

The first step organizations can take to become more culturally competent and aware of their goals related to diversity and inclusion is to complete an organizational assessment. These tools allow for organizations to examine their current status and then set a plan to move forward.

This course builds on the work done and considered in the previous courses in the DEI Certificate Program (DEI 507,508 and 509) with the goal of developing and honing the possibilities for “building community” based on the principles, values and strategies embraced throughout the course work of the DEI Certificate Program. Through an analysis and discussion of different approaches to community dynamics and interactions, this course will offer participants the opportunity to explore, develop and implement a program of “transformation” and “change” for the community they participate in and serve."