DEI Certification: What it is and why it matters

A DEI certification equips HR professionals with essential skills to enhance workplace diversity and drive innovation. It explores top programs, their scope, duration, and costs, empowering career advancement in DEI.

By Brad Nakase, Attorney

Email | Call (800) 484-4610

Have a quick question? We answered nearly 2000 FAQs.

Table of Contents

1. What is DEI certification?

2. Reasons for obtaining a DEI certification

3. Top DEI certificates

4. In sum

What is DEI certification?

HR workers frequently use DEI certifications to obtain qualifications and credentials in DEI and advance their careers in the diversity and inclusion domain. Studies have consistently demonstrated that companies with greater diversity perform better financially and in terms of innovation. This is why the field of diversity and inclusion is becoming increasingly important.

In this post, we’ll examine the top DEI certificate programs, including a quick synopsis of who they are intended for, how long they take to finish, and how much they cost, to assist you in selecting the ideal certification path.

Anyone who successfully completes a course or certificate program aimed at promoting and enhancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in the Workplace is awarded a DEI certification.

The ideas of DEIB are taught to HR and other professionals through these certificates, providing them with the knowledge necessary to incorporate these values into business culture. After that, these HR specialists can develop plans to foster a sense of safety, inclusion, and worth in every employee.

Reasons for obtaining a DEI certification

Although a formal education in diversity and inclusion is not needed for success in this kind of work, earning a DEI certification can be quite beneficial. Here are some justifications for thinking about obtaining a DEI certification:

Increasing knowledge and proficiency: Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) certification programs offer thorough instruction and training that enables you to return to your company and implement inclusive workplace policies.

Increased employability and income potential: Obtaining a specialized certification frequently results in a career promotion or change and a pay raise of up to 20%.

Impacting the company: To gain a competitive edge in their sector and draw in top talent—especially younger employees who place a higher value on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace—organizations require skilled D&I specialists.

Networking: Engaging with a network of other thought leaders and experts in D&I will be beneficial to you.

Personal development: Gaining DEI certification enables you to reflect on yourself, see the world from other angles, and comprehend social justice concerns more deeply. These activities promote personal development and raise your level of cultural competency.

Keeping up with best practices: DEI certification programs frequently provide current knowledge on new developments, scientific discoveries, and best practices. This helps certified individuals to remain knowledgeable and apply creative solutions in their work environments.

Nevertheless, choosing the best DEI certification program can be overwhelming given the abundance of options available. The top DEI certificate programs are listed here to help you with your search.

Top DEI certificates

These top-rated DEI certificate programs will help you become more knowledgeable and conscious of DEI. They will position you to effectively integrate inclusion and diversity procedures and practices into any organization you work for, both now and in the future.

Since they’re all online programs, you can sign up from anywhere in the world. Many of them are self-paced, so you can fit them in around your current obligations.

Now let’s get going!

The AIHR Certificate Program in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Program overview: In this internationally recognized online certificate program, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of diversity and inclusion. They will also learn how to identify and overcome biases by developing inclusive conversational techniques and strategies, resolve cross-cultural conflicts and dilemmas, and successfully implement and manage organizational cultural changes.

The program’s module structure is as follows:

Diversity (beginning and intermediate modules): Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Diversity
Inclusive Communication Skills
Corporate Culture: Cross-cultural Disparities
Final Project

To make for an interesting learning experience, every module includes a lot of homework, tests, downloadable resources, and video-based resources. Along with these benefits, students will have access to a global community, live events, a learning coach, and an extensive HR resource library (all included with full access membership). You will obtain your certificate, which acts as a proof of your skill, after completing the certificate program:

Who it’s for: Human resources or diversity and inclusion specialists, managers, and leaders who wish to ensure that their skills and expertise are up to date and complete.

Duration: To finish this program, students must dedicate about three hours per week for eleven weeks. You can go at your own pace and complete the course online.

Cost: A 12-month subscription to the certificate program is $1,125. Alternatively, students can sign up for a 12-month subscription to all certification programs at the Academy for $1,850.

eCornell’s Certificate Program in Diversity and Inclusion

Overview of the program: This certificate program, offered as part of Cornell University’s online course offerings, gives students a grasp of the organizational and psychological factors that influence how individuals interact with one another within the framework of diversity and inclusion. Students will acquire useful abilities and knowledge in:

Boosting Workplace Morale
Addressing Inadvertent Discrimination
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Promoting a welcoming environment
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (Symposium)

After completing the course, participants will be able to:

Assess and raise the degree of employee engagement
Create a culture of positivity inside the company
Acknowledge and deal with unconscious prejudice in the workplace
Determine and eliminate any preconceptions and stereotypes that can affect team dynamics.
Boost workers’ psychological security

Who it’s for: Executives in charge of strategic culture initiatives and decision-making, team managers, supervisors, and anyone interested in fostering an inclusive workplace.

Duration: Students must dedicate three to five hours a week for two months to finish this program.

Cost: $3,699 is the usual price. In addition to the monthly payment option, there are occasionally discounts.

Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace – ESSEC Business School

Overview of the program: The degree of diversity and inclusivity in the workplace is significantly influenced by power dynamics. This is the primary goal of the ESSEC Business School’s Diversity and Inclusion curriculum, which teaches students how to encourage their coworkers. Pupils will learn about the dynamics and paradoxes of workplace prejudice and how to go past it and achieve better outcomes.

There are four modules in this course:

Foundation for Diversity and Inclusion
Classification and Views of Diversity
Bringing Diversity to the Table
Worldwide Diversity and Inclusion

Who it’s for: Young professionals who wish to increase their awareness of diversity and inclusion or are just beginning their HR careers.

Duration: It takes about 10 hours to finish this course, and it is advised to dedicate 3 hours a week for a period of three weeks.

Cost: Depending on the subscription plan, the cost will change because this program is available on Coursera. A complimentary trial is offered.

Professional Certificate in Inclusive Leadership from Catalyst

Overview of the program: Graduates will be equipped with inclusive leadership abilities that will help them succeed in the modern global economy.

Three courses are included in this online training program:

Become an Effective Leader
Transcend Work-Life Balance and Lead With Skillful Communication

Participants in this program will:

Gain expertise in inclusive leadership and discover how to successfully implement EACH (empowerment, accountability, courage, and humility) behaviors in various settings.
Gain access to case studies, tests, and conversations with students around the globe.
Learn inclusive communication tactics and methods for leadership roles.

Who it’s for: Beginners looking to improve their abilities and advance into inclusive leadership or management positions, as well as those aspiring to managerial positions.

Duration: Participants will need to dedicate up to two hours each week for three months. You dictate the speed.

Cost: The program has a $207 fee. Keep an eye out for sales.

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate Program of the American Management Association

Program overview: This diversity and inclusion certification program aims to give students the tools they need to build inclusive teams and become diversity ambassadors in their workplaces. After completing this course, pupils will be able to identify the distinctive and multifaceted facets of each individual identity, have a greater understanding of implicit biases and stereotypes, and cultivate a vibrant culture.

The course’s primary modules are as follows:

Overview of Inclusion and Diversity
Overcoming Communication Gaps
Diversity, Inclusion, and Emotional Intelligence
Managing a Successful Multicultural Team and Having Successful Conversations
Your Goals and Strategy for an Inclusive Workplace
Capstone: Use and Implementation
Implementing Your Strategy

An outline of the program’s main lessons is provided below:

Knowing the many kinds of biases and creating plans to lessen their effects
To overcome leadership obstacles, cultivate emotionally intelligent communication methods and acquire mindfulness practices.
Developing abilities to promote participation and inclusivity
Encouraging civility, respect, and trust in the working environment.

Who it’s for: HR specialists, leaders at all levels, and anybody else who wants to or is accountable for promoting inclusion and diversity in their companies.

Duration: This is a four-day online live learning session that can be attended in person for three days.

Cost: The price is $3,295 for non-AMA members and $2,995 for members.

Understanding Diversity and Inclusion at Purdue University

Overview of the program: This is a business management course with an emphasis on investigating and valuing diversity and fostering more welcoming, open, and inclusive environments.

This curriculum will cover the following subjects:

Stages of diversity dexterity
Knowledge, abilities, and attitudes that promote diversity
Unintentional prejudices
Mindsets that are ethnocentric and ethnorelative
Components of inclusivity and diversity

Who it’s for: This course is intended for anyone who wants to improve at working with different individuals by developing their knowledge, attitude, and abilities (including HR personnel, corporate trainers, and marketing experts).

Duration: For three weeks, students must work three hours a week.

Cost: There is no cost for the length of this program. However, students who meet the eligibility requirements may pay a course upgrade to have lifetime access to the course, including any available examinations. They will also receive a digital and paper Certificate of Achievement or Statement of Participation.

Program for NDC Certification

Program summary: Students participating in the National Diversity Council Certification Program will learn firsthand how to develop and execute highly effective diversity and inclusion strategies to improve performance. After finishing, participants ought to be capable of:

Determine which factors influence employee engagement and organizational success in the modern corporate climate: diversity and inclusion.
Perform effectively in your role as a D&I specialist.

The five diversity domains covered by this program are:

The D&I business case
Measuring and responsibility
Cultural sensitivity
Top Diversity and Inclusion Practices for Inclusive Leadership

Who it’s for: Professionals in the D&I industry and any other professionals with an interest in it.

Duration: The virtual training program lasts five days.

Cost: To enroll, students must pay $5,550 for the CDP (Certified Diversity Professional) examination, access to the NDC toolset and graduate network, and a five-day virtual classroom.

HRCI – HR Management Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion (Assessment, Inclusion, and Retention)

Program overview: The D&I in HR Management certificate program lays the groundwork for developing an environment at work where all workers are valued and treated as respected members of the team, are free to take advantage of work-related opportunities, can pursue career paths that make the most of their abilities, and are paid fairly.

The following courses are part of the HRCI program:

Developing a Culture of Inclusivity
Evaluating Inclusion and Diversity
Acquiring and Preserving Diverse Skill

The International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO 30415:2021) guidelines on diversity and inclusion for organizations have been followed in developing this certificate. Additionally, students will receive 12 HRCI recertification credits upon completion of the study route.

Who it’s for: HR and/or D&I professionals who wish to get useful advice on creating an inclusive workplace culture.

Duration: It takes roughly 12 hours to finish the program.

Expense: $239, which grants 180 days of course access.

SHRM – Specialty Credential in Inclusive Workplace Culture

Overview of the program: HR professionals can successfully change organizational culture with the tactics and resources provided by the Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential. Participants in this workshop will discover how to harness the organizational benefits of a diverse and committed workforce by cultivating a pleasant work environment based on inclusivity and belonging.

Included in the program are:

Participation in the educational program Inclusive Workplace Culture: Leading and Sustaining a Culture Transformation
Three extensive SHRM online courses that address the competencies to foster an inclusive workplace culture
An online knowledge test on inclusive workplace cultures.

Who it’s for: People who want to obtain a specialized certification that shows they are committed to promoting progressive change and forward-thinking in the workplace.

Duration: Whether you select the self-paced or instructor-led option will determine how long this program takes.

Cost: Members pay $1,830 for this program’s live online or in-person seminar version, while non-members can enroll for $2,105. Members pay $1,755 for the self-paced option, while non-members must pay $2,030.

The Sarah Jane Academy: Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity for Professionals

Overview of the program: The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Practitioners program will teach you how to guard against unconscious bias and microaggressions, how the DEI industry has evolved, and what a DEI practitioner does. You will also learn about common threats to DEI and how to use tools to combat them.

This program’s curriculum is divided into four sections, each lasting one week:

Week 1: Evolution of DEI and Key Difficulties
Week 2: What a DEI Practitioner You Are
Week 3: Reporting for Duty
Week 4: Applying DEI

Who it’s for: Professionals and advocates for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion who wish to acquire a DEI certificate and discover practical strategies for DEI.

Duration: This four-week class is offered once a month. Weekly live ninety-minute virtual sessions are optional; recordings are provided.

Cost: The enrollment fee is $300 for this online DEI certification course.

The Diversity Movement: A selection of certificate courses

Program summary: The Diversity Movement provides DEI programs to meet needs and professional goals. Each program has undergone comprehensive peer review and is instructed by its Certified Diversity Executives.

The ERG and Inclusive Leadership courses are individual sessions held remotely or in person upon request. The intensive CDE and CDP programs are taught online on Zoom and follow a cohort approach.

Who it’s for: Leadership teams, employee groups, and DEI practitioners.

Duration: Training sessions for the ERG certificate program last four hours, inclusive leadership programs six hours, and intensive, CDE, and CDP programs twenty-four to twenty-eight hours spread over four days.

Cost: Depending on your chosen course, costs begin at $2,500.

The Certified Diversity Professional (CDP) and Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) programs offered by the Institute for Diversity Certification

Overview of the program: Study global case studies, research, and trends in DEI. Hear from real professionals who have worked with international corporations for a long time. Discover how to manage DEI better using practical (qualitative and quantitative) tactics for more significant results.

Who it’s for: HR and inclusion and diversity specialists who wish to obtain official certifications that attest to their expertise in developing and executing workplace diversity and inclusion programs.

Course length: Eight weeks of online instruction or four days of Zoom virtual instruction make up diversity and inclusion courses. Both cover the same material.

Cost: Each participant must pay $3,305 for the CDP (online and virtual) and $4,139 for the CDE (online and virtual).

In sum

Which DEI certification is best for you will depend on your professional goals, learning objectives, and personality. Consider your professional aspirations and any fields you would like to specialize in, then make a difference.

Have a quick question? We answered nearly 2000 FAQs.

See all blogs: Business | Corporate | Employment

Most recent blogs:

What Is a Pay Stub and Why It Matters for Employees and Employers

Pay stubs detail wages, deductions, and taxes, helping employees track earnings and employers comply with state payroll regulations. They support loan applications, reduce payroll disputes, and are required or regulated in many states across the U.S.

What Are the Proper Steps to Fire Someone in California?

Terminating an employee in California requires following legal guidelines, maintaining professionalism, and ensuring proper documentation. This guide outlines lawful termination reasons, key procedural steps, and best practices to reduce legal and financial risks.

How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record in California?

A misdemeanor conviction in California stays on public record indefinitely but may be eligible for expungement under specific conditions. Background checks typically show misdemeanor convictions for seven years, but expungement can remove them from most employment screenings.

How Do I Prepare a Script for Firing Someone?

Learn the professional steps for firing an employee, from preparing a script to handling emotional reactions. Understand the proper procedures, reasons, and communication techniques to ensure a smooth and respectful termination.

What Is Involved in a PAGA Lawsuit?

PAGA lawsuits allow employees to file claims for labor code violations on behalf of themselves and others in California. Employers can face significant penalties, prompting many to settle to avoid costly judgments.

What Are the Rules for 10-Minute Breaks?

California law mandates two paid 10-minute breaks and a 30-minute unpaid meal break for an eight-hour shift. Employers who fail to provide required breaks may face penalties, and employees can seek legal action for compensation.

Can I Work Six Hours Without a Lunch Break?

California law requires a 30-minute meal break for shifts over five hours, but employees can waive it if working exactly six hours. Employers must comply with strict labor laws, ensuring uninterrupted meal breaks and legal protections for workers.

What Can I Do If My Employer Didn’t Pay Me on Payday?

Employers in California must pay workers on time, or they may face penalties of up to 30 days' wages for delays. Employees can file wage claims, seek legal assistance, or report violations to the California Labor Commissioner's Office for unpaid wages.

What Qualifies as a Hostile Work Environment in California?

Employees in California facing severe or persistent harassment based on protected traits may have legal options under state and federal laws. Filing a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department or consulting an employment attorney can help protect workplace rights and seek compensation.

When Is a Doctor’s Note for Work Required in California?

California employers generally cannot demand a doctor's note for sick leave, but exceptions exist under specific laws and circumstances. Legal conflicts persist, and employers may require medical documentation for disability accommodations, FMLA leave, or other valid reasons.

What Does California Law Say About Final Paycheck Rules?

California law mandates that final paychecks be provided promptly, with termination pay due immediately and resignation pay within 72 hours. Employers must include all owed wages, expenses, and accrued benefits, with penalties for late or incomplete payments.

Can an Employer Deny a Doctor’s Note?

An employer may deny a doctor's note if the absence does not qualify for legal protections under disability or family leave laws. Employers must evaluate medical documentation, employee statements, and applicable laws before considering disciplinary action.

How Much Can You Sue an Employer for Misclassification?

An employer's misclassification tactics can deny you fair wages, benefits, and legal protections. You may be entitled to compensation, including back pay, retirement contributions, and potential punitive damages, by pursuing legal action.

How Serious Is an EEOC Complaint?

An EEOC complaint can lead to costly legal battles, reputational damage, and mandatory policy changes for businesses. Employers may face financial penalties, investigations, and compliance requirements, impacting operations and workforce morale.

Do You Have Sample Letters for Termination of a Contract?

A contract termination letter formally ends a business agreement while protecting interests. This guide outlines key steps, considerations, and sample letters.

What Is a WARN Notice in California?

The California WARN Act requires businesses with 75 or more employees to provide 60 days' notice before mass layoffs, plant closures, or relocations. Noncompliance can lead to fines, back pay, and healthcare costs, making adherence essential for legal and financial stability.

What Is FICA and How Does It Impact Payroll Taxes?

FICA is a payroll tax that funds Social Security and Medicare, requiring contributions from both employers and employees. Employers must withhold, match, and submit FICA taxes while following IRS guidelines on deposit schedules, wage bases, and additional Medicare tax requirements.

What Is At-Will Employment and How Does It Impact Employee Rights?

At-will employment allows employers and employees to end their working relationship at any time without cause, impacting job security and flexibility. While it provides businesses with staffing flexibility, employees face fewer legal protections and potential job instability.

Employers Should Exercise Caution When Terminating Employees After Disability Leave

Employers should exercise great caution when considering whether to terminate an employee who is on leave. Employers are cautioned not to automatically terminate employment solely because an employee has used or exhausted their disability leave entitlement.

What Is FUTA? 2025 Rates and How to Calculate FUTA Tax

The Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) imposes a payroll tax on businesses that have employees, collecting revenue that funds unemployment benefits.

What Is the Difference Between a 1099 Contractor and an Employee?

A 1099 contractor operates independently, covering their own taxes and expenses, while a W-2 employee receives benefits and employer tax contributions. Misclassifying workers can result in fines, making it essential to assess control, financial arrangement, and job nature before classification.

How Do Contractors Typically Get Paid? Payment Methods and Legal Guidelines

Contractors receive payments through direct deposits, checks, payroll services, or online transfers, following legal and tax regulations. Proper classification, documented agreements, and compliance with IRS reporting ensure smooth transactions and avoid penalties.

What Is the Definition of a Non-Exempt Employee?

Non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay and must earn at least the federal minimum wage under FLSA regulations. Unlike exempt workers, they are typically paid hourly and receive 1.5 times their wage for extra hours.

Can Union Representatives Be Present at Disciplinary Meetings?

Employees have the right to request a union representative during investigative interviews that may lead to disciplinary action. Employers must comply or face potential labor law violations under the National Labor Relations Act.

What Is an FTE (Full-Time Equivalent)?

A full-time equivalent (FTE) measures employee work hours, combining part-time and full-time schedules into a standardized metric. Businesses use FTE calculations for staffing, budgeting, and compliance with regulations like the Affordable Care Act.

What Are the Signs of Unfair Treatment at Work?

Unfair treatment at work includes discrimination, pay gaps, and biased promotions, impacting employees' well-being and career growth. Recognizing signs like harassment, favoritism, and wrongful termination helps employees take action against workplace discrimination.

What Is a Statutory Employee on a W-2 Form?

A statutory employee is a self-employed worker classified as an employee for tax withholding purposes, receiving a W-2 instead of a 1099-MISC. These workers can deduct business expenses on Schedule C but typically do not receive traditional employee benefits like health insurance or retirement plans.

What Laws Protect Employees From Workplace Bullying

622