York University’s School of Continuing Studies has introduced a new Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Action, set to start in September 2024. This part-time accelerated program is designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to support strategic DEI initiatives and foster inclusive organizational policies. Registration for the program is now open.
Denine Das, a financial services DEI leader and an advisory committee member for the program, emphasized the increasing focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the corporate sector. “Through the real-life experiences from the program instructors and invaluable insight into the success and areas of opportunities with regards to DEI, this program will provide students the necessary skills and abilities to understand the imperatives organizations require to succeed in the global market,” Das noted.
The demand for DEI professionals has surged as Canadian organizations recognize the importance of diverse and inclusive work environments for achieving broader success. This growing field has seen a significant increase in job postings, with a 56% rise in the Greater Toronto Area, 63% in Ontario, and 71% nationally from 2018 to 2022. The new certificate program aims to address the talent gap in this emerging area by providing necessary training and skills.
Christine Brooks-Cappadocia, assistant vice president of continuing studies at York University, stated, “DEI is at the heart of everything we do, from our objective of removing barriers to education for learners to the design of our new building. We are excited to launch this new program which responds to what DEI professionals are telling us is needed to support their work — a formal education credential that ensures graduates have practical experience in implementing DEI practices.”
The curriculum, developed in collaboration with Canadian business leaders specializing in DEI, offers transformative learning methodologies that encourage introspection, critical reflection, and meaningful dialogue. Students will engage in projects such as an end-to-end DEI Action Plan, and will analyze data to identify trends and assess the effectiveness of DEI initiatives.
The program also features instructors who are currently working in senior DEI roles, bringing practical insights and expertise into the classroom.
More information about the Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Action can be found on the School of Continuing Studies webpage.
The York University School of Continuing Studies is known for its rapid growth and commitment to providing relevant and up-to-date education that meets the needs of today’s professional landscape, helping students to navigate and succeed in a constantly changing world.