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Be the spark and lead the path to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Organizations won’t change if people won't change. With collective knowledge and action, let's redesign workplaces where everyone thrives and innovation has no bounds. Spark positive change and embrace the journey towards creating equitable, diverse and inclusive workplaces. In this program, you’ll discover the benefits of intercultural communication, ways to confront systemic barriers and how to support diverse workforces. Each of us has a unique role to play in transforming our work environments. Empower your organization by developing essential skills to navigate team dynamics, leverage diverse perspectives and nurture collaboration.

As you progress through the program, you'll gain new levels of awareness and understanding so you can lead with empathy, inspire innovation and champion equality. If you want to be the change your organization needs, small actions lead to impactful ripple effects. And remember—it's never too late to build a brighter future where every voice matters.

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Description

Courses and fees

Application information

Questions?

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Program at a glance

Program description

The Micro-certificate in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) provides you with a robust knowledge base and essential skills to create inclusive and thriving workplaces for all. By recognizing the significance of EDI principles in both the public and private sectors, organizations are increasingly prioritizing their integration at all levels. This micro-credential is tailored for employers and employees committed to the vital work of challenging systemic and organizational barriers, examining power dynamics, and fostering equity and inclusion.

Through exploring crucial topics such as social location, intercultural communication, accessibility, reconciliation, and the influence of power dynamics and privilege, this program deepens learners' self-awareness, critical thinking and empathy. It equips them to navigate and transform their work environments into safer, more equitable, inclusive spaces.

Program features

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Experiential Learning
This program allows you to integrate theory with practice by engaging with your instructors and fellow classmates. You will be given the opportunity to learn tools and techniques with immediate hands-on real-world experience.
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Manageable
Our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) program is designed with a busy lifestyle in mind. Learn at your own pace, set personal deadlines and propel your career journey forward.
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Online Flexibility
This program is delivered online, allowing you to work independently within deadlines set by your instructor. With this format, you don't have to worry about travel or scheduling conflicts while you study. You can work at your own pace, on your own schedule and maintain a balanced lifestyle. 
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Teaching Talent
Our instructors are industry professionals with years of expertise and lived experience. They’re dedicated to helping you develop the knowledge and skills to realize your full potential.
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Credibility
The University of Victoria is one of Canada's leading universities, recognized for preparing students for careers in a wide range of disciplines. Upon successful completion of this program you will receive a micro-certificate.

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The StrongerBC future skills grant is now available in 2024 (January to March) for midstream learners. For more information and eligibility criteria, view the grant details.

Program outcomes

Students who complete the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion micro-certificate will be able to:

  • identify the historical and ongoing impacts of white supremacy, power, privilege and how they are embedded in organizations
  • explain the significance of EDI initiatives and their impact on the success of businesses and their employees
  • leverage knowledge of diverse histories and perspectives to recruit and support a diverse workforce
  • reflect on their social location and the social identities of others, and discover how identity impacts their worldview and interactions with others
  • develop the skills, confidence and cultural competence to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse communities
  • identify areas for improvement and develop intentional strategies to ensure welcoming, inclusive and accessible workplaces
  • reflect on the importance of reconciliation in EDI initiatives and create actionable steps toward decolonization.

Who is this program for?

The micro-credential program is specifically crafted for professionals, employers and employees who are passionate about fostering equitable, diverse, accessible and inclusive workplaces. The primary goal is to create an environment where every individual feels welcomed, valued and supported to reach their full potential.

If you see yourself reflected in any of the following, this program could be a good match:

  • you recognize the significance and impact of diversity and inclusion initiatives
  • you seek to drive positive change by promoting inclusive and accessible practices within your organization
  • you desire to acquire practical strategies and skills for effective intercultural communication and conflict resolution
  • you are committed to attracting a broader range of talented individuals and hiring the best candidates for your team
  • you want to encourage collaboration and open dialogue in an inclusive environment, leading to the growth and development of new services, products or processes
  • you are eager to enhance diverse perspectives, creativity and innovation within the organization
  • you aim to develop an EDI strategy and expand market reach to a wider customer base

By participating in this program, individuals will gain the necessary knowledge and tools to champion equitable practices and cultivate a culture of inclusivity within their professional spheres.

Career options

Some of our learners pursue careers in the following roles:
  • Manager, executive or leader
  • Human resources professional
  • Community/social service/non-profit worker
  • Educator or administrator
  • Counsellor or independent consultant
  • International development worker
  • Government administrator/manager
  • Employment equity and diversity officer
  • Immigration and settlement officer

Instructors

Courses and fees

The Micro-certificate in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion comprises three mandatory courses that can be completed in any sequence or concurrently. Please note that course availability may differ across terms. Please view our anticipated course schedule for detail about upcoming terms.

All courses are delivered asynchronously online, with defined start and end dates. Depending on the course calendar, certain courses may also be available in a face-to-face format.

Designed to accommodate various schedules, this micro-credential is intended for part-time study. The program duration is flexible, allowing you to tailor it based on the number of courses you take per term. Completion of the requirements can be accomplished in as little as two terms or extended over a longer timeframe to suit individual preferences and commitments.

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= Courses open for registration

Three (3) required courses

Estimated fees

Description Fee
Course 1 $595.00
Course 2 $595.00
Course 3 $595.00
EDI program fee (one-time) $20.00
Estimated Total $1,805.00*
*IMPORTANT NOTE:
Fees listed in this section are an estimate. Total program fees may vary depending on delivery format, course selections, student fees, textbooks and taxes.

Please note that for international students, the course fee is $825 per course.

Application information

Admission requirements

This program warmly welcomes individuals with diverse academic backgrounds, work experiences and personal journeys. However, all applicants are expected to:

  • approach participation with respect, openness and a willingness to explore new perspectives
  • possess some level of post-secondary education and/or relevant life experience
  • demonstrate proficiency in English, encompassing both written and verbal communication skills
  • ensure regular access to a computer with a reliable internet connection

Note: this non-credit, micro-credential does not necessitate admission to the University of Victoria.

How to apply

No application is necessary. Simply select any of the three courses required for the micro-certificate and register for them independently. When registering, you will have the option to purchase the Micro-certificate in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion fee at an additional cost of $20. You are only required to select this when registering for one of the three courses.

Once you have completed your third course, your certificate will be automatically issued and sent to you. Certificates will be sent approximately one month after the completion of your third course.

StrongerBC future skills grant

This program is eligible for the StrongerBC future skills grant. To register using this grant please review the eligibility, registration details and funding dates. 

Application dates

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RELATED TOPICS: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

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