Diversity Studies Undergraduate Certificate
The diversity studies certificate is an interdisciplinary certificate program available to all Ohio University undergraduate students.
We live in a world that is becoming more and more complex; at the same time, it is becoming smaller. We have more access to others whose identities and cultures are different than our own. Given the unique historical circumstances of the United States, a well-rounded education should facilitate an understanding of the historical, political, sociological and legal contexts within the United States and how these various contexts impact our contemporary issues of diversity.
While we know that many types of diversity exist, the Diversity Studies Certificate focuses on five of the most recognized diversity domains in the United States:
- Race/Ethnicity
- Social Class
- Gender
- Sexual Orientation
- Disability
Each of the diversity domains are intersecting and interactive. It is important to “unpack” or deconstruct each diversity domain individually, and then examine their interrelatedness. In learning about these different domains of diversity there is a cross-fertilization of ideas that can be applied to the understanding of diversity issues in general.
Career Opportunities
This certificate prepares students to enter their post-graduation world with a clearer understanding of the dynamics of diversity in the United States, having examined their own assumptions about diversity and how to live with others in a diverse world.
Because of these critical understandings, graduates will find the certificate beneficial for their personal lives, as well as a benefit to moving into their professional work. In addition, the certificate provides academic preparation for those students who wish to pursue graduate degree programs in diversity studies or in social science and humanities graduate programs with relevance to human diversity.
Certificate Requirements
Full Requirements and Courses in the Official Academic Catalog
The diversity studies certificate requires a minimum of 18 semester credit hours hours and six courses.
Contact Us for More Information
Catherine Cutcher
Associate Director, Center for International Studies
cutcher@ohio.edu