York’s Division of Continuing Education is launching a new post-graduate certificate in diversity and human rights starting January 2013.
The program is designed to contribute to a comprehensive, human rights-oriented conceptual framework for the analysis and support of diversity in Canada. It’s designed to help train people in diversity and human rights issues, as well provide a resource for increased diversity awareness among the modern workforce.
“At York University we are well aware of the growing demand in the Canadian workplace and society for people who have the skills to manage and improve diversity, equity and human rights,” says Professor Lorne Foster, 
director of the Master Public Policy, Administration & Law in the School of Public Policy & Administration.
Lorne Foster
“The Diversity and Human Rights Certificate program combines an academic curriculum with professional training, which is designed to enhance delivery of services by human rights field operations, diversity officers, human resource practitioners, business planners and related professionals, as well as providing a resource for individuals who want to acquire knowledge and marketable skills preparing them to excel in today’s diverse workforce.”
By blending a theoretical understanding of human rights with the practical knowledge of processes and policies, the program can 
help improve the quality of decision-making at all organizational levels within a human rights context, which is perceived as socially conscious and progressive.
In addition, the curriculum is fundamental to increase awareness of the issues surrounding the fair and equitable treatment of all employees, which can lead to inclusive work environments, says Marina De Bona, program and logistics manager of the Division of Continuing Education in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies. It is intended to deliver a student-centered, professionally-grounded and experiential learning experience.
The first course in the Diversity and Human Rights program, Issues in Diversity, Equity & Human Rights, will run from Jan 7 to April 1, Mondays and Wednesdays, from 6:30 to 9:30pm at a downtown location.
The second course, Introduction to Social Justice, will run Tuesdays from May 7 to July 30.
The third course, International Diversity & Human Rights, will run Tuesdays from Sept. 10 to Dec. 3.
The fourth course, Introduction to Diversity & Human Rights Compliance Processes for Organizational Settings, will run Thursdays from Sept. 12 to Dec. 5.
The program is co-sponsored by York’s School of Public Policy & Administration and the Department of Equity Studies.
For more information on courses and instructors, click here for the brochure or visit the Division of Continuing Education website.