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Create an empowering workplace culture through DEI.

Download our program guide

Our program guides are here to help you make the right choice. Packed with detailed information about studying with UNSW Online, from course content to career outcomes, they’re designed to support you in finding the program that fits your goals and aspirations.

Here's what you'll find inside:

  • Entry requirements
  • Program highlights
  • Course structures
  • Fees
  • Online learning approach
  • Current Step 1
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Complete

Overview

Modern workplaces are recognising that fostering a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is not just a social responsibility – it's a strategic imperative. Organisations that champion inclusivity report higher innovation, improved employee engagement and stronger performance. As businesses and communities address systemic inequalities, there is a growing demand for leaders who can drive meaningful change. For professionals ready to build more equitable environments, the opportunity to make a lasting impact has never been more significant.

The Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from UNSW Online is designed for passionate advocates and emerging leaders seeking to drive positive transformation. This program provides foundational knowledge and practical skills to design, implement and measure effective DEI initiatives. You will explore critical concepts of social justice, inclusive leadership and organisational change, preparing you to create workforces where every individual feels valued, respected and empowered to succeed.

 

Why study with us?


To lead change, you need a qualification that combines academic rigour with real-world relevance. UNSW is a global top 20 university*, recognised for its commitment to social impact and equity. In this program, you will learn from leading academics and industry practitioners at the forefront of DEI research and practice. Our curriculum is designed for immediate application, empowering you to address complex workplace challenges with confidence. You’ll join a network of like-minded professionals and graduate with the credibility to champion inclusion and shape the future of your organisation.

*QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026

Duration
8 months, part time

Courses
4

Intake
Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct

Indicative 2026 fee per course
$5,130

Study mode
100% Online

Program code
7458

The Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion comprises four courses – three core and one elective. Completing these courses will provide you with the knowledge and tools to shape company DEI strategies to empower individuals and teams and foster a culture of wellbeing and celebration.

 

Use your remaining elective to tailor your study to areas of interest, whether they be from the general Human Resource Management stream, Human Resource Analytics stream, Leadership and Organisational Development stream or further electives relevant to your career goals.

 

Core courses

  • Employee Wellbeing and Engagement
  • Sustainability and Human Resources
  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

 

Electives

Choose one of the following electives:

Human Resource Management Elective Courses:

  • Human Resource Strategies
  • Introduction to Employment Law
  • Managing People and Organisation

Leadership and Organisational Development Elective Courses:

  • Leadership Development
  • Organisational Development

Human Resource Analytics Elective Courses:

  • Human Resource Analytics#
  • Human Resource Information Systems
  • Introductory Data Analysis

#Pre-requisite: Introductory Data Analysis.

Further Elective Courses:

  • Attracting, Evaluating and Retaining Talent
  • Change Management
  • Managing Pay and Performance
  • Managing Yourself and Others

 

   To find out more about each course, download your program guide.

The online Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from UNSW Online is designed for professionals passionate about fostering inclusive workplace cultures and driving meaningful change. Studying this will give you the skills to pursue roles such as:

  • Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator
  • Employee Engagement Specialist
  • DEI Program Officer
  • Workplace Wellbeing Advisor
  • HR Policy Advisor (DEI Focus)
  • Sustainability and Inclusion Specialist
  • Talent Acquisition Specialist (DEI Focus)
  • Organisational Development Assistant
  • Community Engagement Officer
  • Culture and Inclusion Analyst

To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, you must have:

  • A  recognised  bachelor's degree (or equivalent qualification); OR
  • A minimum of three years relevant or professional experience* in analytics, clerical or administrative work in a commercial, not-for-profit or public service organisation or other analytics-related positions.

*Relevant experience includes being responsible for tasks that  are non-routine, unstructured, or semi-structured, and engaging in  problem-solving-solving activities. It can include the experience of managing a small team, being a team leader, managing a  project, or being responsible for the management and allocation of resources. Alternatively, engaging in a professional role over a period of time is relevant experience.

 

Articulation

Articulation pathways exist into the Master of Human Resource Management and the included specialisations from the Graduate Certificate programs in Human Resource Management; Human Resource Analytics; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; and Leadership and Organisational Development; if the student completes these programs with a minimum WAM of 65.

You can also complete up to two eligible Graduate Certificates, which can be stacked towards your Master of Human Resource Management degree. Stacking two Graduate Certificates will allow you to graduate with the master's degree by completing a further four courses.

 

English language

You may need to provide evidence of English proficiency to study at UNSW. This ensures you can succeed in webinars, coursework and assessments. Proof can include:

  • English tests or university courses
  • Prior study in English
  • Other qualifications or waivers

Program fees

At UNSW Online, we’re committed to providing a world-class education that delivers exceptional value. Our programs are designed to fit your lifestyle and career goals, with fees structured on a per-course basis to give you flexibility and control over your investment. Your student fees are calculated based on the courses you take and your residency type, ensuring transparency and fairness.

Indicative 2026 fee per course

$5,130

Indicative 2026 total program fees

$20,500

The total indicative fee varies based on the elective courses you select, the year you complete them and any approved recognition of prior learning (RPL) granted before you begin your studies. Find out more about our course and program fees here.

FEE-HELP available

Eligible domestic students can apply for FEE-HELP, a government loan to cover all or part of your tuition fees for fee-paying places. The loan amount is added to our HELP debt, which is repaid once your income reaches the repayment threshold.

 

You can apply for FEE-HELP as part of your acceptance to UNSW Online. The form will present itself during your final stages of online acceptance if you are eligible.

 

Applications must be submitted before the relevant teaching period census date. Read more about FEE-HELP and eligibility here.

 

At UNSW Online, we’re here to support you every step of the way as you work toward graduating from one of the world’s leading universities. Our online learning environment is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule, giving you the flexibility to access course resources anytime, anywhere on any device. We offer six study blocks, known as hexamesters, each year. These seven-week blocks with orientation time beforehand allow you to focus on one course at a time – providing the perfect balance between study and life’s other commitments.

 

Our academics are among the best in the world and even though you’re studying online, you’ll experience the same high-quality education as our on-campus students. Throughout your journey, you’ll have the dedicated support of your Student Success Advisor. From enrolment to graduation, they’ll be your go-to for all non-academic queries, available by phone or email to ensure you stay on track. You’ll also benefit from Career Success – a self-paced, curated module designed to help you build and implement an effective career plan. With access to tools like Career AI (powered by VMock) and CaseCoach as well as guides for perfecting your LinkedIn profile, resume and cover letter, you’ll be equipped to take the next step in your career with confidence.

Why choose the Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at UNSW Online?

The AGSM advantage

Our Master of Human Resource Management is designed and delivered through the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at UNSW Business School.

#1 for Business and Management

Learn from the top experts and academics in Australia for Business and Management studies*.

*QS World University Ranking by Subject, 2025

Top 20 global university*

UNSW is one of the top universities in the world*, with a global reputation for excellence that opens doors for our graduates.

*QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026

#1 for graduate outcomes

UNSW produces the most employable graduates* who earn the highest average salaries in Australia*.

*AFR, Top 100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020-2025

*Australia, QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2023

Why pursue a career in human resource management?

Projected employment growth by 2035

21.8%

Typical salary in Australia

 

$135,000

 

HR professionals who view DEI as critical

 

84%

 

Job postings in 2025

37,328

 

The course provided a thorough exploration of crucial topics related to employee wellbeing and engagement, such as the extended JD–R model, SMART work design, and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). This comprehensive approach gave a well–rounded understanding of how to enhance workplace wellbeing and foster engagement. The course emphasised the practical application of theories and models, enabling students to directly relate the concepts to real–world scenarios. This focus on actionable strategies made the learning experience more relevant and impactful.

UNSW Online student (Employeee Wellbeing and Engagement)

Frequently asked questions

This program is ideal for current or aspiring HR professionals eager to drive meaningful change and foster inclusive workplace cultures. It’s perfect for those passionate about advancing employee wellbeing, embedding sustainability and integrating diversity, equity and inclusion principles into modern HR practices. With flexible online delivery and pathways to further qualifications, it’s also suited for professionals seeking to tailor their learning to career goals or transition into leadership roles in DEI-focused environments.

The Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion includes three core courses – Employee Wellbeing and Engagement, Sustainability and HR and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – along with one elective of your choice. Elective options span various focus areas, including Human Resource Management, Human Resource Analytics, Leadership and Organisational Development, and other career-relevant streams. This allows you to tailor your studies to align with your professional aspirations.

We offer six study blocks, or hexamesters per year. Each hexamester runs for seven weeks with some orientation time beforehand. You study one course per block, offering balance and flexibility with life's other commitments. This flexible online certificate consists of four courses and can be completed in as little as eight months, part-time (15 - 20 hours a week study commitment).

There are six intake periods each year for the Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – January, March, May, July, September and October. This allows you to choose a start date that aligns with your personal and professional commitments, providing the flexibility to begin your learning journey when it suits you best.

To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, you’ll need either a recognised bachelor's degree or a minimum of three years of relevant full-time professional experience. This experience can include roles in analytics, clerical or administrative work, HR-related tasks, project or team management, or other positions requiring problem-solving and resource management in commercial, not-for-profit, or public service organisations.

Yes, the Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion offers a pathway to the Master of Human Resource Management with a DEI specialisation, provided you achieve a WAM of 65 or above. 

 

Alternatively, you can stack two eligible Graduate Certificates and complete an additional four courses to earn your master’s degree, providing a flexible pathway to further your education and career. 

As a UNSW Online student, you’ll receive extensive online student support, including personalised guidance from a dedicated Student Success Advisor. You’ll also gain access the UNSW Career Success platform with exclusive tools including resume builders, LinkedIn optimisation, Career AI, and CaseCoach. You will also have access to academic facilitators and wellness services, and be provided with online opportunities to network with peers and UNSW staff, ensuring a successful and enriching learning experience. 

This program equips you with practical skills to tackle real-world HR challenges, focusing on inclusion, engagement, wellbeing and sustainability. Through UNSW Online's comprehensive curriculum, you’ll gain the expertise to influence HR strategies and lead impactful DEI initiatives at individual, managerial and organisational levels, preparing you to drive meaningful change in modern workplaces.

If you're interested in careers that support Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), you'll find a range of roles dedicated to advancing inclusive workplace practices and culture. Common DEI job titles include:

  • Chief Diversity Officer
  • DEI Manager
  • Diversity Advisor
  • Culture Manager
  • DEI Consultant

These roles focus on building inclusive cultures, promoting equitable practices and supporting the organisation’s strategic goals.

To build a career in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), a bachelor's degree in human resources, business or social sciences provides a strong foundation. However, specialised qualifications will help you stand out.

A program like UNSW Online’s Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is designed for professionals who want to lead meaningful change. You will develop the skills to create and implement effective DEI strategies, including data analysis, change management and strategic thinking. This prepares you to align inclusion initiatives with organisational goals and foster more equitable workplace environments.

To become a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) specialist, you can start by building a strong foundation in a related field like human resources or social sciences.

To elevate your expertise and stand out, a specialised qualification like UNSW Online’s Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is invaluable. This program is designed to equip you with essential skills in data analysis, change management and cultural competence. It prepares you to foster inclusive workplace practices and drive meaningful, strategic change within an organisation.

Our suite of Human Resource Management programs at UNSW are designed to empower, inspire and equip aspiring HR leaders with the necessary insights to navigate the complexities of the modern workforce. By delving into these integral areas of contemporary HR, students will gain an industry-relevant toolkit to transform their careers and contribute significantly to their organisation.

 

Dr Helen Parker
Academic Lead for UNSW Online Human Resource Management Programs
 

Image
UNSW Faculty Dr Helen Parker

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