York University School of Continuing Studies Launches New DEI Program for Leaders Looking to Bring Positive Change to Their Organizations

This blog was provided by our partners at the York University School of Continuing Studies.

This fall, the York University School of Continuing Studies will launch its new Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Action, a 6-month part-time program for mid-career professionals and business leaders. Learners who enrol in the program will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to transition into diversity, equity and inclusion roles or implement DEI initiatives within their workplaces.

“Over the past few years, we’ve seen a major shift and emphasis toward prioritizing diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in the corporate world. This program is another step forward to ensuring a future workforce that is more diverse and inclusive,” says Denine Das, financial services DEI leader and advisory committee member for the program. “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.”

Canadian organizations are implementing DEI strategies at an increasing rate, recognizing that promoting diversity, equity and inclusion is crucial for both their workforce and broader societal success. This has created a growing need for adept leaders capable of championing and successfully implementing DEI initiatives.

Between 2018 and 2022, DEI job postings have increased by 56% in the GTA, 63% in Ontario and 71% nationally[i]. The School of Continuing Studies’ Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Action aims to fill this talent shortage by providing professionals with the knowledge, skills and experience in current DEI practices to match their passion.

“The York University School of Continuing Studies is proud of its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion to our community members including staff, students and instructors. 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,” says Christine Brooks-Cappadocia, assistant vice president of continuing studies at York University. “That’s why 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 program’s curriculum was created in partnership with Canadian business leaders who specialize in DEI. Students in this program will gain hands-on practice engaging in activities like:

• Conducting a real-world examination of the processes and workflows of DEI professionals through an end-to-end DEI action plan project
• Interpreting data analytics to identify DEI trends and measure the effectiveness of initiatives
• Making evidence-based decisions to foster an inclusive and equitable work environment

Instructors who work full-time in senior-level DEI roles will support students through projects and classes and will bring their real-world expertise and insights to every course.

 

For more information on the Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Action launching in September 2024, visit the School of Continuing Studies webpage.

[i] According to Lightcast data