Starting autumn 2019, The Ohio State University College of Arts and Sciences will offer a certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. This 12-credit hour certificate is open to degree-seeking undergraduate Ohio State students as well as anyone with a bachelor’s degree. Many of the certificate courses can be completed in person or online.

The certificate, an interdisciplinary curricular program, is designed to provide current and future leaders and thinkers with the tools they need to thrive in increasingly diverse workplaces, teams and other social environments. Earning this certificate will equip participants with the understanding, knowledge and skills to support and promote equity.

“Thanks to the world-class faculty and instruction available in the College of Arts and Sciences, the curriculum will expose participants to cutting-edge social research on diversity and inclusion and prepare them with the analytic tools necessary to work toward maximizing societal equity," said Wendy Smooth, associate dean of diversity, equity and inclusion. 

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will possess an in-depth understanding of the evidence behind contemporary social inequalities, particularly with respect to three dimensions that inform major societal rifts: social class, race/ethnicity and gender/sexuality.

“This certificate program is designed for students and working professionals alike to pursue a deeper understanding and context for the important issues of diversity, equity and inclusion. In receiving this certificate, they will be equipped with essential skills, knowledge and experience to bring back to their classrooms, research projects and workplaces,” added Ryan King, professor and chair of the Department of Sociology.

The Department of Sociology in the College of Arts and Sciences will provide advising support for students pursuing the certificate program. Professor Reannne Frank and Associate Professor Townsand Price-Spratlen spearheaded the development of the program.

Get more information, including details on how to apply for the certificate as a current Ohio State student or as a post-bachelor's degree student. Eligible employees interested in pursuing the certificate can take advantage of the Faculty and Staff Tuition Assistance Plan.

About Academic Certificates at Ohio State
The Ohio State University offers a variety of academic certificate programs that are intended to allow students to pursue specific topics in order to supplement their current degree program; gain knowledge in a chosen field of employment; earn credit or continuing education units (CEUs) for workforce development; prepare for exams for professional certification; or for professional licensure. Certificate programs are offered in many different areas, both for credit and non-credit.