12 Best DEI Certifications of 2024
DEI certifications provide you with credentials that not only open doors to new career opportunities and salary increases but also pave the way for meaningful change in corporate culture.
DEI certifications are a popular way for HR professionals to get qualified and credentialed in DEI and advance their career in the field of Diversity & Inclusion. Studies have repeatedly shown that more diverse organizations are ranked higher in innovation and financial performance, which is why the diversity and inclusion space is rapidly growing in importance.
To help you choose the right certification program for you, we’ll explore the best DEI certificate programs in this article — including a brief overview, who they are for, how long they take to complete, and their cost.
Contents
What is a DEI certification?
Why you should get DEI certified
Popular DEI certifications
1. AIHR – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Certificate Program
2. eCornell – Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program
3. ESSEC Business School – Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
4. Catalyst – Inclusive Leadership Professional Certificate
5. American Management Association – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Certificate Program
6. Purdue University – Understanding Diversity and Inclusion
7. NDC Certification Program
8. HRCI – Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion in HR Management
9. SHRM – Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential
10. The Sarah Jane Academy – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Practitioners
11. The Diversity Movement – A range of certificate programs
12. Institute for Diversity Certification – Certified Diversity Professional (CDP) and Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) programs
FAQ
What is a DEI certification?
A DEI certification is a form of credential given to anyone who successfully completes a course or a certificate program in fostering and improving Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in the workplace.
These certifications educate HR and other people professionals about the principles of DEIB, equipping them with the knowledge to integrate these values into organizational culture. These HR professionals can then create strategies to help make all employees feel valued, included, and safe.
Why you should get DEI certified
While it’s not absolutely necessary for you to be formally educated in D&I to be able to perform well in this type of role, getting a DEI certification can give you a huge advantage. Here are some reasons why you should consider getting DEI certified:
- Building knowledge and skills: DEI certification programs provide comprehensive education and training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, which allows you to bring these competencies back to your organization to promote inclusive practices in the workplace.
- Improved hireability and earning potential: Getting a specialized certification can often lead to receiving a promotion or a new job, as well as getting a salary increase of up to 20%.
- Creating organizational impact: Organizations need qualified D&I professionals to build a competitive edge in their industry and attract top talent, particularly younger workers who place more importance on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
- Networking: You’ll benefit from connecting and interacting with a network of other D&I thought leaders and professionals.
- Personal growth: Pursuing DEI certification allows you to engage in self-reflection, broaden your perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of social justice issues, leading to personal growth and increased cultural competence.
- Staying updated on best practices: DEI certification programs often include up-to-date information on emerging trends, research findings, and best practices in the field of DEI, enabling certified professionals to stay informed and implement innovative strategies in their workplaces.
That being said, with so many DEI certification programs out there, it can be overwhelming to pick the right one for you. To make the search easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best DEI certificate programs.
Best DEI certifications
Here are some of the most popular and high-quality DEI certificate programs that can help you boost your DEI knowledge and awareness, and put you in a strong position to weave diversity and inclusion policies and practices into any company you work for, today and in the future.
They are all online programs, which means you can enroll in them no matter where you’re located. Many of them are self-paced and can be completed around your existing commitments.
Let’s get started!
Please note that this list is compiled based on publicly available information. We have not tried the courses ourselves, with the exception of AIHR’s certificate program.
1. AIHR – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Certificate Program
Program overview: In this globally accredited online certificate program, students will build a thorough understanding of the key aspects of diversity and inclusion, recognize and overcome biases by mastering inclusive conversational skills and strategies, solve cultural conflicts and dilemmas arising from intercultural differences, and learn to successfully implement and manage cultural changes in an organization.
Here is the module structure of the program:
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (beginner and intermediate modules)
- Inclusive Communication Skills
- Organizational Culture
- Intercultural Differences
- Capstone Project
Each of the modules is video-based, with plenty of assignments, quizzes, and downloadable materials to create an engaging learning experience.
Students will also receive access to a comprehensive HR resource library, a worldwide community, live events, and a learning coach (included with full access membership).
After finishing the certificate program, you will receive your certificate that serves as a credential of your expertise:
Who it’s for: Professionals, managers, and leaders in D&I or Human Resources who want to make sure that their knowledge and skill set are both comprehensive and current.
Duration: Students will need to put in around three hours per week for 11 weeks to complete this program. Everything is completely online and self-paced, so you can progress as quickly as you like.
Cost: The cost of the certificate program is $1,125 for 12-month access. Alternatively, students can also enroll in the Academy for $1,850 to gain 12-month access to all certification programs.
Find the details about the AIHR DEIB certificate program and enroll here.
2. eCornell – Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program
Program overview: As part of Cornell University’s online course offers, this certificate program provides students with an understanding of the institutional and psychological processes that impact the way people interact with each other in the context of diversity and inclusion. Students will gain valuable skills and knowledge in:
- Improving Employee Engagement
- Countering Unconscious Bias
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Work
- Fostering an Inclusive Climate
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (Symposium)
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:
- Evaluate and boost employee engagement levels
- Cultivate a positive organizational culture
- Recognize and address unconscious bias in the workplace
- Identify and mitigate stereotypes and prejudices that may impact team dynamics
- Improve the psychological safety of employees
Who it’s for: Team managers or supervisors, or executives responsible for strategic culture efforts and decision-making, or anyone interested in creating an inclusive workplace.
Duration: To complete this program, students will need to spend three to five hours per week for two months.
Cost: The price is typically $3,699. Sometimes, there are discounts, and a monthly payment option is also available.
Find the details about the eCornell program and enroll here.
3. ESSEC Business School – Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
Program overview: Power dynamics in the workplace greatly impact how diverse and inclusive that environment is. This is the main focus of this D&I program created by the ESSEC Business School, which also provides students with the best practices to support fellow employees. Students will gain an understanding of the paradox and dynamics of discrimination in the workplace, as well as how to overcome this and achieve better results.
This course is comprised of four modules:
- Diversity and Inclusion Foundation
- Categorization and Diversity Perceptions
- Disrupting with Diversity
- Diversity and Inclusion around the World
Who it’s for: Young professionals who are just starting their HR careers or those who want to boost their D&I awareness.
Duration: This course takes approximately 10 hours to complete, and it’s recommended to spend 3 hours per week for 3 weeks.
Cost: As this program is on Coursera, the cost will vary based on the subscription plans. There is a free trial available.
Find the details about the ESSEC Business School program and enroll here.
4. Catalyst – Inclusive Leadership Professional Certificate
Program overview: Students enrolled in this program will be able to develop inclusive leadership skills to make them successful in the current global economy.
This online training program contains three courses:
- Become a Successful Leader
- Get Beyond Work-Life Balance
- Leading With Effective Communication
In this program, students will:
- Develop inclusive leadership skills and learn to apply the key inclusive leadership behaviors of Empowerment, Accountability, Courage, and Humility (EACH) effectively across various contexts
- Get access to case studies, assessments, and discussions with learners worldwide
- Master inclusive communication strategies and techniques in the context of leadership
Who it’s for: Beginners who want to hone their skills and become inclusive leaders or managers, or those who want to take on managerial roles.
Duration: Students will need to put in one to two hours per week for three months. You set your own pace.
Cost: This program costs $207. Watch out for discounts.
Find the details about the Catalyst program and enroll here.
5. American Management Association – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Certificate Program
Program overview: This diversity & inclusion certification program centers on equipping students with the skills needed to become diversity champions in their organizations and to lead inclusive teams. Upon finishing this program, students will be able to recognize the unique and multidimensional aspects of individual identity, understand unconscious biases and stereotypes on a deeper level, and foster a thriving culture.
Here are the main modules in the course:
- Introduction to Diversity and Inclusion
- Bridging Communication Differences
- Emotional Intelligence and Diversity and Inclusion
- Leading a Successful Multicultural Team
- Conducting Difficult Conversations Successfully
- Your Vision and Plan for an Inclusive Workplace
- Capstone: Practice and Application
- Putting Your Plan into Action
Here’s an overview of the key takeaways from the program:
- Understanding the different types of biases and developing strategies to mitigate their impact
- Developing emotionally intelligent communication strategies and learning about mindfulness techniques to navigate leadership challenges
- Improving meeting facilitation skills to foster inclusivity and participation
- Promoting respect, civility, and trust in the workplace.
Who it’s for: Leaders at all levels, HR professionals, or others who are responsible for or wish to take responsibility for diversity and inclusion in their organizations.
Duration: This is a live learning program that can be attended online (four days) or in-person (three days).
Cost: For non-AMA members, the investment is $3,295, while for members, it’s $2,995.
Find the details about the AMA program and enroll here.
6. Purdue University – Understanding Diversity and Inclusion
Program overview: This is a business management with a particular focus on exploring and embracing diversity, and creating more inclusive and open environments that are welcome to all.
Topics to be covered in this program are:
- Phases of diversity dexterity
- Attitudes, skills, and knowledge supporting diversity
- Unconscious biases
- Ethnocentric and ethno-relative mindsets
- Elements of diversity and inclusion
Who it’s for: This course is for anyone looking to improve their attitude, skills, and knowledge for effective work with different people (including HR employees, corporate trainers, professionals working in marketing).
Duration: Students will need to put in three hours per week for three weeks.
Cost: This program is free of charge for its duration, but students can purchase a course upgrade for lifetime access to the course, as well as access to course tests (if there are any), and receive a printed and digital Certificate of Achievement or Statement of Participation when eligible.
Find the details about the Purdue University program and enroll here.
7. NDC Certification Program
Program overview: Students enrolled in the National Diversity Council Certification Program will gain first-hand knowledge of creating and implementing highly successful D&I strategies to boost performance. Upon completion, participants should be able to:
- Identify diversity and inclusion as drivers of organizational success and employee engagement in the contemporary business environment
- Perform at a high level as D&I professionals
This program covers five diversity domains:
- The business case for D&I
- Measurement and accountability
- Cultural competence
- Inclusive leadership
- Best practices in Diversity and Inclusion
Who it’s for: Professionals working in the D&I field and any other professionals interested in the field.
Duration: This is a five-day virtual training program.
Cost: To enroll, students will need to pay $5,550 for a five-day virtual classroom, access to NDC toolkit and graduate network, and the CDP (Certified Diversity Professional) examination fee.
Find the details about the NDC certification program and enroll here.
8. HRCI – Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion in HR Management (Assessment, Inclusion, and Retention)
Program overview: This certificate in D&I in HR Management provides a foundation for creating a workplace where all employees are respected and appreciated as valuable members of the organization, are able to participate in work-related opportunities, can follow career paths that use their skills and knowledge to the fullest, and receive fair compensation.
The HRCI program contains the following courses:
- Fostering an Inclusive Culture
- Assessing Diversity and Inclusion
- Hiring and Retaining Diverse Talent
This certificate has been developed in accordance with the International Organization for Standardization’s guidance on diversity and inclusion for organizations (ISO 30415:2021). What’s more, students who finish the learning path will earn 12 HRCI recertification credits.
Who it’s for: D&I and/or HR professionals who want to get practical guidance on building an inclusive culture within their organization.
Duration: The program takes about 12 hours to complete.
Cost: $239, which includes 180 days access to the course.
Find the details about the Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion in HR Management program and enroll here.
9. SHRM – Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential
Program overview: The Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential gives HR professionals the strategies and tools needed to successfully shift organizational culture. In this program, participants will learn how to maximize potential through fostering a positive work environment rooted in inclusivity and belonging, ultimately unlocking the organizational gains of a diverse and dedicated workforce.
The program includes:
- Enrollment in the Inclusive Workplace Culture: Leading and Sustaining a Culture Transformation educational program
- Three comprehensive SHRM elearning courses focused on skills required for an Inclusive Workplace Culture
- An online Inclusive Workplace Culture knowledge assessment.
Who it’s for: Individuals interested in earning a specialty credential that demonstrates the continuing effort to reinforce positive change and forwarding thinking within the workplace.
Duration: The duration of this program depends on whether you choose an instructor-led or self-paced version.
Cost: For the live online or in-person seminar version of this program, members pay $1,830, while non-member can enroll for $2,105. The self-paced option costs members $1,755, and non-members: $2,030.
For all the details about the SHRM Credential and to enroll, click here.
10. The Sarah Jane Academy – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Practitioners
Program overview: In the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Practitioners program, you will explore the evolution of the DEI industry, understand the role of a DEI practitioner, become aware of common threats to DEI (as well as tools to help), and learn how to protect against unconscious bias and microaggressions.
The curriculum of this program is split into four parts, each one lasting a week.
- Week 1: DEI Evolution & Top Challenges
- Week 2: Your Role as a DEI Practitioner
- Week 3: Getting to Work
- Week 4: DEI in Practice
Who it’s for: Diversity Equity & Inclusion advocates and professionals who want to learn actionable tactics for DEI and gain a DEI certificate.
Duration: This program runs every month and lasts for four weeks. There are optional live 90-minute virtual sessions each week (with recordings sent out).
Cost: The cost to enroll in this online DEI certification program is $300.
Find the details of The Sarah Jane Academy course and enroll here.
11. The Diversity Movement – A range of certificate programs
Program overview: The Diversity Movement offers a range of different programs within DEI to suit different needs and career aspirations. All programs are taught by their Certified Diversity Executives and extensively peer-reviewed.
Intensive, CDE, and CDP programs are led virtually on Zoom and follow a cohort model, while the ERG and Inclusive Leadership programs are private sessions that can be held either virtually or in-person upon request.
Who it’s for: DEI practitioners, employee resource groups, and leadership teams.
Duration: The ERG certificate program is a four-hour training, Inclusive Leadership programs are six hours, and the Intensive, CDE, and CDP programs are 24-28 hours over four days.
Cost: Prices start from $2,500 depending on the program you choose.
Get more information on all the courses and certifications that The Diversity Movement offers and enroll here.
12. Institute for Diversity Certification – Certified Diversity Professional (CDP) and Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) programs
Program overview: Explore DEI research, case studies and trends from around the world, learn from true experts with extensive experience working with multinationals, and learn to manage DEI better with effective strategies (quantitative and qualitative) for more impactful outcomes.
Who it’s for: HR and diversity and inclusion professionals who want formal credentials to demonstrate they have the knowledge and skills to create and implement diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Duration: Diversity and inclusion courses consist of an 8-week online course or a 4-day virtual class on Zoom. Both cover the same content.
Cost: The CDP costs $3,305 (online and virtual), and the CDE costs $4,139 (online & virtual) per person.
To browse the IDC’s D&I certification programs and enroll today, click here.
Over to you
The best DEI certification depends on who you are, what you want to learn, and where you wish to grow in your career. Reflect on your personal career goals and any areas you wish to specialize in and make an impact.
FAQ
D&I, or DEI, certification provides employees with the knowledge and skills related to workplace diversity, hiring and promotion practices, and building an inclusive team. By being D&I certified, you’ll be able to demonstrate your expertise in this field to potential employers, increase your value on the job market and contribute more value to any organization you work with.
This depends on your individual and professional development needs, career objectives, and budget. To decide which program is best suited to you, here are some factors to consider.
Program duration and flexibility:
Pick the program that will best fit around your current schedule and commitments and one that you are confident you can complete in the near future.
Program cost and what you (or your employer) are willing to pay:
Getting D&I certified is an investment in your career and the employer you work for. Many companies have a Learning and Development budget and might also offer extra financial support for you to gain a certification.
Which aspect of D&I you want to focus on:
Some programs will focus more on developing inclusive leadership skills, while others provide you with the foundational knowledge needed to carry out D&I interventions and innovation in a structured manner. Choose one or a few topics that are relevant and interesting to you.
Your seniority, experience, and current level of HR expertise:
Some D&I initiatives, such as managing organizational culture transformation or fostering a diversity climate, might require a certain level of seniority to be carried out. Or it might be that a program would require you to have a few years of HR experience. Keep this in mind when choosing a program to enroll in.
To get D&I certified, you can choose one of the above-mentioned programs to enroll in and complete, or do your own research and find another program. Make sure that the certification you’re getting is recognized by institutions such as HRCI and SHRM. This will lend more credibility and recognition to your profile and credentials.
There is no single route to becoming a DEI professional. However, there are some steps you can take to help you get there. These include earning a degree in a relevant subject, undertaking relevant work experience, completing a DEI certification, and ensuring your CV is tailored to applying for a DEI role. Speaking to an existing DEI professional with years of experience can also help you understand what it takes to succeed in this area and provide you with extra tips to stand out.
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