15 Best Diversity & Inclusion Training Programs in 2024

Many high-profile cases in the United States in recent years showed companies being penalized for bias and discrimination in the workplace. Such incidents sparked outrage and accusations that tarnished the image of these organizations.

This necessitates dealing with the issue head-on. One effective way is diversity training programs that drive meaningful change within organizations.

Explore the list of diversity training courses for employees below that I’ve curated for you to help cultivate a more inclusive and empowered environment.

List of Diversity Training for Employees

I put together these courses based on their popularity and my own experience. In doing so, I considered the quality, authority, and comprehensiveness of each program.

1. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Training by ProProfs Training Maker

Inclusion is the celebration of diversity put into action.

This online training course from ProProfs Training Maker, a leading provider of a cloud learning management system , is one of the best diversity training programs. It is designed to help organizations build a diverse and inclusive workplace for everyone.

I’ve taken the course as a part of our regular in-house training sessions. The course covers topics on diversity, equity, and inclusion, why they matter, common barriers, and steps to success.

It contains relatable scenarios, handouts, worksheets, assessments, and chapter feedback.

The course is fully customizable, ready to use, and self-paced. Interactive and engaging content, including videos, quizzes, and practical exercises, reports, and completion certificates are other highlights.

Participants can take the course anytime, anywhere, on any device.

Why ProProfs Training Maker?

• The course can be delivered via its integrated LMS
• It is led by an experienced instructor
• Centralized and automated training
• Everyone is guaranteed a certificate of completion

Duration:

1 hr 50 m

Pricing:

Starts at $1.99/learner/month with a dedicated 24/7 customer success manager at no additional cost.

Here is a podcast broadcasted by Harvard Business Review on Diversity and Inclusion at Mars Petcare

2. Diversity & Inclusion Training by HRDQ

HRDQ is a research-based training company and it provides several diversity training courses focusing on diversity awareness, cross-cultural adaptability, generational differences, implicit bias, and many other topics.

The programs suit all individuals, including managers, HR professionals, and employees at all levels.

You’ll find station-based activities that cater to distinct learning preferences, interaction types, and technology options. The learning model combines experiential, social, and emotional elements that encourage learners to explore and absorb new ideas related to inclusivity and diversity.

There are also case studies, blogs, and D&I board games for better engagement and learning outcomes.

Why HRDQ?

• Covers all the major concepts of DEI
• Supports different learning styles
• Self-paced learning
• Compatible with all devices

Duration:

Workshops take 4 to 8 hours. Assessment typically takes 20 minutes to complete and score.

Pricing:

$62.99 to $599.00

3. Diversity & Inclusion Training by GetSmarter

GetSmarter, a partner of edX, is a provider of online education from world-leading universities and institutions. It can be your go-to platform for DEI training, and this is the primary reason why I included it in my list.

Leading Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; and Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging in the Workplace are two short online courses that it provides.

They delve into the ever-changing world of work and how organizations can leverage D&I strategies to keep up with this dynamic corporate environment. The courses also offer insights and practical tools to advance inclusivity within an organization.

Over two to six weeks, participants will explore various topics, ranging from unconscious bias to privilege. They can help participants develop inclusive leadership skills and strategies to create a comprehensive D&I plan specific to their organization.

Why GetSmarter?

• The courses are guided by University of Cape Town (UCT) faculty
• Incremental deadlines for different course components
• Self-paced learning
• Multiple financing options are available

Duration:

2 to 6 weeks

Pricing:

$500.25 to $2,101.08

4. HR University’s Diversity and Inclusion Certification Course

Next, I’ve for you the Diversity and Inclusion Certification Course. It’s from HR University, a world-recognized HR education and community platform for HR professionals worldwide.

The course is targeted at HR professionals and business leaders, and it presents strategies and tactics on how to create a diverse and inclusive workplace.

I’d say it is one of the best diversity training courses for those lacking a formal D&I background and insider tips or resources to manage hard conversations around gender, race, and disability.

Exclusive interviews with professionals, instructor feedback, case studies, and a certificate of completion are some of the highlights of the course.

Why HR University?

• Work on a capstone project after completing this course and get instructor feedback
• Bonus content and exclusive interviews
• Lifetime access
• 120+ video lessons

Duration:

4 hours/week to finish in 10 weeks

Pricing:

$299 to $499

5. Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace by Coursera

I had to feature Coursera in this list because it is clearly one of the largest providers of online courses.

By enrolling in this Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace training course, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

They will understand the paradox of diversity and its dynamics, and identify ways to manage it, so that they can channel the diversity potential in the workplace for greater performance and innovation.

The course is of beginner level and it offers a flexible schedule. It includes assessments and shareable certificates.

Why Coursera?

• Offered by ESSEC Business School
• Includes hands-on learning projects
• Case studies from around the world to give a global context
• Available in 19 different languages

Duration:

3 hours a week for 3 weeks

Pricing:

N/A

6. Diversity & Inclusion Training by Compliance Training Group

I learned about Compliance Training Group many years ago. It is a well-known company in the field of compliance training solutions. Its training solutions have been recognized for generating measurable results for organizations.

The training center provides three main courses on DEI. They cover essential concepts, awareness about unconscious bias, and a workshop edition.

These diversity and inclusion training programs emphasize the significance of cultural competence, the persistent issue of biases and stereotypes, and the importance of employers and employees working together to achieve the organization’s goals.

Similarly, the programs highlight the quality of personal interactions among individuals with diverse backgrounds, thereby minimizing conflicts and improving workplace productivity. Apart from creating awareness of prejudice, stereotypes, and discrimination, the courses recommend measures to prevent these behaviors.

Why Compliance Training Group?

• Experienced and knowledgeable trainers
• Customized DEI training solutions
• In-person, virtual, and self-paced learning
• Experiential learning

Duration:

1 to 5 hours

Pricing:

Starts at $24.99

7. eCornell’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

   
Share our similarities, celebrate our differences. – M. Scott Peck

eCornell is Cornell University’s external education unit that provides online professional and executive development programs.

This certificate program on diversity, equity, and inclusion works for anyone committed to developing a truly aware and inclusive work culture, moving beyond mere compliance.

With this program, you can build an inclusive workforce by understanding the psychological and perceptual processes that impact interactions among people.

It provides a one-year free access to symposiums involving Cornell faculty and experts. These sessions tackle the most pressing diversity and inclusion topics, such as equity, unconscious bias, psychological safety, inclusive leadership, and cross-cultural conversations.

Why eCornell?

• The course is developed by Cornell University faculty
• A collaborative learning experience to learn from peers and build a DEI network
• It fits busy schedules, no matter the time zone
• Completing the course earns learners a professional certificate

Duration:

2 months 

Pricing:

$3,699 or $975/month

8. Diversity and Inclusion Training by Atana

I haven’t explored Atana (formerly Media Partners) personally, but many of my colleagues attested to its credibility.

This provider combines award-winning content with a breakthrough analytics engine in offering training backed by science and proven by data.

The courses are designed to help overcome learner resistance and disinterest, whether you need to meet a requirement or enhance vital workforce skills. The courses contain pre-measurement modules.

Atana’s courses complement one another and so they are often used together to create well-defined learning journeys.

They can be a valuable resource to make your employees feel included and respected and drive positive change in the workplace culture.

Why Atana?

• Attention-grabbing high-quality content
• Closely aligns with the core values of companies worldwide
• Recipient of nearly 10 global awards of excellence
• Atana is the culmination of 30 years of eLearning innovation

Duration:

45 mins to 48 mins

Pricing:

N/A

Watch:How to Create a Positive Work Environment | Training Course Introduction

9. Diversity Training by Udemy

As the largest provider of massive open online courses (MOOCs), Udemy boasts an extensive course catalog covering numerous topics.

My team and I have taken its free and paid courses on several occasions.

Its diversity and inclusion courses deal with practical strategies for overcoming diversity challenges. They focus on building better employees and leaders through improved DEI knowledge and skills.

The courses include on-demand videos, closed captions, downloadable resources, access on mobile and TV, and a certificate of completion.

Udemy’s learning experience arranges coursework into a series of modules and lessons that can include videos, text notes, and assessments.

Why Udemy?

• Taught by industry experts with practical experience in their field
• Available in English, French, German, and other languages
• Full lifetime access
• The platform frequently offers discounts and promotions

Duration:

39 mins to 4 hours

Pricing:

$4.68 to $95.08

10. Diversity Training by American Management Association

The diversity training courses by the American Management Association (AMA) are among the highly sought-after programs. These programs can help participants recognize the value and challenges of diversity at the individual, team, and organizational levels.

By completing these programs, they can enhance their leadership skills and gain insight into how biases impact employee engagement, productivity, and innovation.

The courses are manned by experienced instructors and facilitators with expertise in diversity and inclusion. You’ll find customization options and a variety of formats.

High-performing teams can use these courses to explore key cornerstones of diversity and inclusion, champion diversity, and foster an inclusive culture.

Why American Management Association?

• Leadership-focused courses
• Both classroom and online sessions are available
• Current, relevant, and well-led
• Filled with discussions, exercises, and activities

Duration:

3.5 hours to 8 hours

Pricing:

$249 to $2,221.00

11. Diversity and Inclusion Training by SkillPath

SkillPath has been a leader in learning and development since 1989. It provides professionals worldwide with strategic and innovative training solutions.

In the realm of diversity training programs, some of the courses it offers include Diversity & Inclusion in Hiring; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace; and Managing Neurodiversity in the Workplace.

The program format is flexible, and you’ll have the option of choosing from in-person events, virtual seminars, onsite courses, on-demand videos, or webinars. Training participants will also find white papers and podcasts.

SkillPath’s commitment to providing quality training is evident in these extensive resources.

Why SkillPath?

• The courses are accredited and recognized by leading organizations
• Closed captioning in virtual seminars for individuals with hearing challenges
• SkillPath leads 9,000+ training sessions each year
• The training solutions are as unique as your business needs

Duration:

3 hours

Pricing:

$199.00 to $279.00

12. Inclusive Leadership by edX

In my constant search for the best online education and training providers, I often come across edX. On a closer examination, I realized that it has been growing in popularity since its foundation 12 years ago, even achieving record global enrollments of over 110 million.

The Inclusive Leadership Program by edX is a professional certificate program to build the skills of an inclusive leader. The program consists of “EACH”: Empowerment, Accountability, Courage, and Humility.

Participants will get hands-on experience that encourages teamwork and innovation. Additionally, the program offers a 45-minute “mini-course” that provides practical techniques for working with individuals having varying beliefs, appearances, and thinking styles.

The program is taught by Catalyst, a global expert in the field.

Why edX?

• Delivers professional programs across nearly every discipline
• Works in collaboration with top universities and organizations
• Pathways that are flexible to personal & professional achievement
• Educational opportunities at every investment level

Duration:

3 months, 1-2 hours per week

Pricing:

$186.44

13. Inclusion Workshops by Catalyst

Catalyst’s Inclusion Workshops are focused on promoting inclusive workplaces where diversity is valued and everyone feels included and heard.

These workshops are made up of different training programs that aim to build awareness, skills, and knowledge around inclusion and diversity issues.

The topics covered in these workshops are:

• unconscious bias
• managing diverse teams
• inclusive communication
• becoming an inclusive leader
• microaggressions
• allyship

The interactive workshops include a self-reflection process where learners examine their biases and behaviors and practice necessary skills through engaging activities, case studies, and practical self-assessments.

Upon completing the workshops, participants will understand the significance of inclusive leadership in today’s global marketplace. You can also customize the workshops according to your organization’s learning requirements.

Why Catalyst?

• Opportunities for practice through activities, case studies & self-assessments
• A space for participants to express thoughts, ask questions, and challenge assumptions
• High flexibility in terms of customizations
• Supported by some of the world’s most influential CEOs & leading companies

Duration:

2 hours

Pricing:

Custom quote

14. Inclusive Workplace Culture by SHRM

SHRM is a prominent and respected professional association known for its educational and career development programs. So, my list will be incomplete without it.

A part of SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential, the Inclusive Workplace Culture: Leading & Sustaining a Culture Transformation course is a scenario-based and enlightening course.

Here, participants will discover the characteristics and impact of diversity, equity and inclusion, including how to increase diversity and support equity within an organization.

There’s a 2-day in-person and a 2-day live online program as well as a 1-week live online program and a 5-week live online program.

Meaningful discussions in the course revolve around what an inclusive culture is, why it matters, and how to develop one. Alongside this, learners will acquire tools and techniques to foster a culture of belonging.

Why SHRM?

• Up-to-date and relevant content covering the latest trends & best practices
• Enrolling in courses like this provides an opportunity for networking with other professionals
• Access to resources, including research reports, templates, toolkits & guides
• Industry-recognized certificates that are accepted globally

Duration:

2 days to 5 weeks

Pricing:

Starts from $1,545.00

15. Inclusive Leadership Learning Journey by Corporate Education Group

 “Diversity is the art of thinking independently together.” – Malcolm Forbes

Like in the case of other organizational ethos, the success of cultural diversity training depends on the leadership to a great extent. It needs leaders who actively seek and value diverse perspectives.

The Inclusive Leadership Learning Journey program by Corporate Education Group is one such program that I find helpful in developing inclusive leadership skills.

The program consists of the following:

• a pre-program assessment
• five virtual learning sessions
• two self-paced assignments
• one 1-1 coaching session

The program is suitable for mid-level managers, directors, and HR professionals who want to enhance their leadership capabilities and promote inclusivity within their teams and organizations.

The program combines self-awareness, inquiry, and interactive learning experiences.

It’s flexible and scalable, allowing organizations to customize the duration and delivery method of the program to suit their needs.

Why Corporate Education Group?

• Subject-matter experts & specialist-consultants with a professional track record
• Partnership with Duke University to offer joint certificate programs for individuals & organizations
• Discounts for federal government agencies, government contractors & their employees
• Training grant services for clients seeking training grant funds

Duration:

3 weeks

Pricing:

N/A

Race Discrimination Case Study

Have you heard about the recent lawsuits filed against Amazon by five employees, alleging racial and gender discrimination?

One of the cases involved an employee who claimed that her supervisor used a racial epithet to refer to her. The lawsuit also alleged that Amazon had a pattern and practice of discriminating against Black employees in its hiring, promotion, and compensation.

The plaintiffs argued that the company’s reliance on subjective performance evaluations and lack of diversity training contributed to a culture of discrimination.

Amazon denied the allegations and stated that it has zero tolerance for discrimination and harassment and has implemented initiatives to improve diversity and inclusion. It also established a diversity, equity, and inclusion board and conducted mandatory diversity training for managers.

The case highlights organizational challenges in addressing systemic racism and the need for effective D&I initiatives to create a more equitable and inclusive workplace.

Read the full story here.

Bring Diversity Training Programs Into Focus

By investing in diversity and inclusion training, you can build a workplace culture where everyone feels valued and respected.

These diversity training program examples can be your ultimate arsenal to spread awareness about the topic and provide practical strategies to advance the cause of inclusivity within your organization.

Choose paid or free diversity training programs that align with your employees’ learning needs and preferences as well as business objectives.

Online training software, such as an LMS, can help you deliver, manage, and track these courses from a centralized location. So, make sure you consider such platforms at the same time.

Start your D&I journey today and positively impact your workplace and community with diversity training programs online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a diversity training program?

A diversity training program is an organized educational program to promote awareness and understanding of how individuals with different cultural backgrounds, ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, and beliefs can work together harmoniously in a workplace. The program aims to dissuade employees from bias and discrimination on the basis of physical and other differences. For more, watch: What Is Diversity Training in the Workplace? Benefits & Requirements

How effective is diversity and inclusion training for employees?

The effectiveness of this training depends on the quality of courses, delivery method, and qualifications of instructors. With the right ingredients, it can be highly effective in fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace. This leads to improved employee engagement, job satisfaction, and organizational performance.

What should diversity training programs include?

Diversity training should include topics on unconscious bias, stereotypes, cultural competency, inclusive language, allyship, and creating an inclusive work environment. They should incorporate interactive activities, case studies, and real-life examples. Also, address specific issues relevant to your organization and provide resources for ongoing learning

How often should diversity training programs be delivered?

The frequency of diversity training programs can vary depending on your organization’s needs and goals. That said, regular and ongoing training initiatives are recommended rather than a one-time event. Include periodic refresher courses and continuous learning opportunities.