Diversity and Social Justice, Undergraduate Certificate

Why Study Diversity and Social Justice?

An undergraduate certificate in social justice provides valuable skills and knowledge in diversity, inclusion, equity, and social change—qualities that are increasingly sought after in today’s workforce. The interdisciplinary structure, with courses across multiple colleges, allows students to explore social issues from various perspectives and apply that understanding in any professional setting. By examining global perspectives, community engagement, and social inequalities, students gain insights into how different social systems shape outcomes and how to build stronger, more inclusive institutions. The Undergraduate Certificate in Diversity and Social Justice equips graduates to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and to contribute meaningfully to positive change in their organizations and communities.

What You’ll Learn

• The certificate in social justice examines contemporary social issues through a sociological perspective, using social theory and research methods to explore how inequality interacts with various aspects of society. It focuses on the nature, extent, consequences, and potential solutions to social problems in both the United States and around the world.
• During the social justice certificate program, you will have the opportunity to explore global cultural and social dynamics, including ethnic literary expressions, world religions, human geography, and cultural differences across nations.
• You can examine international issues and development, such as globalization, conflict and war, sustainability, human rights, and the political systems of developing countries.
• In the public and community engagement coursework, you can choose from topics such as intercultural communication, community relations, educational equity, and ethical decision-making in public service. You will examine how diversity, social justice, conflict resolution, and civic responsibility shape interactions between individuals, communities, and institutions, gaining practical skills for promoting inclusion, engagement, and the public good.
• You will explore how race, gender, sexuality, social class, and ethnicity shape individual experiences and societal structures. Through literature, psychology, sociology, and cultural studies, you’ll critically analyze systems of power, identity formation, intersectionality, and the historical and institutional roots of inequality in both personal and public contexts.