The program “Understanding Diversity: A basis for Inclusive Practice” is designed to help participants explore and understand what diversity and its various facets really mean in today’s world. Participants will explore how to recognize and address bias, discrimination and systemic inequities and learn to apply concrete strategies to promote equity and inclusive principles and practices across a broad range of settings. Through a combination of conceptual frameworks, real-world case studies, critical reflection and intercultural communication training, participants will be equipped to operate effectively in diverse environments, ultimately becoming themselves agents of change.
Karmen Mlinar

Diversity is often treated like a buzzword, a checkbox. “Diversity: done”. This is not how we want you to feel about it. Therefore, we will build on your experiences. Your needs. Your fears and uncertainties. Because we cannot talk about diversity from a safe academic distance. We need to face reality. And learn, together, how to change it in order to make society a better place.

Ass.-Prof. Dr.
Karmen Mlinar

Study Program Director

Online Info Event

Join our Online Information Session to learn more about our CP “Understanding diversity: a basis for inclusive practices“. We will provide a detailed presentation of the program, including study formats and admission requirements. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with our team. We look forward to welcoming you!

Any questions?

We’re here to help.

Or contact us directly.

You benefit from our program by

  • No matter your educational and professional backgrounds and experiences, this programme will prepare you to work confidently and effectively in diverse environments. 
  • You will be able to successfully address diversity-related challenges, communicate effectively in diverse teams and apply inclusive principles and practises in a variety of settings, from corporate environments to community organisations, educational institutions and others, on a national and international level. 
  • The content and in particular the case studies will be tailored to your specific, following the principles of active participation. 
  • The program also meets the training and continuing education criteria for trainers of the Public Employment Service (AMS) of Lower Austria. Additionally, the program is in the process of being accredited by the wba, so you will be able to use the credits to obtain a wba-certificate in adult education. 
  • solution-oriented skills

  • practice-oriented

  • trending topic

Module "Foundations for Understanding Diversity " will be held in German, while Module "Bridging the divide: addressing bias and embracing diversity" will be held in English. Prior arrangement with the participants, the entire program can be held in English.

ECTS
  • Contents

    This module provides an interdisciplinary introduction to the concepts of diversity and inclusion, equity, equality and social justice, exploring their historical, theoretical, and practical dimensions. Participants will engage with foundational ideas about identity, power, privilege, and oppression, while critically examining systemic inequities and strategies to address them. Through a combination of theory and practical application, participants will develop the skills to assess and respond to challenges of inclusion and exclusion in various social, cultural, and institutional contexts.

    1. Mapping diversity: theories, realities and perspectives (3 ECTS)
    2. The matrix of power: understanding the dynamics of exclusion, inclusion and social justice (3 ECTS)
  • Contents

    This module examines the theoretical and practical frameworks, mechanisms and effects of bias in relation to different forms of diversity. It equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically analyse and address discriminatory practices in various sectors, with the aim of fostering inclusive environments. Through an interdisciplinary approach, participants will evaluate the effectiveness of anti-discrimination policies, practices and interventions. The module also focuses on developing intercultural communication competence and critically analysing the use of inclusive language, as well as the challenges related to freedom of speech and cancel culture. Participants will enhance their ability to bridge divides, embrace diversity and promote inclusion in professional and social contexts.

    1. The weight of bias: theory, policy and practice (3 ECTS)
    2. Speaking diversity: bridging differences through communication (3 ECTS)

Learn more about our program

Admission requirements

  • General university entrance qualification, or  
  • Completed training at least at NQR level IV, or  
  • Several years of relevant professional experience 

Application process

  1. Contact us to clarify your expectations of the certificate program and to make sure you fulfil the admission requirements. 
  2. Online application (enter the study identification number UM 992052 in the online tool). 
  3. Enrolment procedure (interview with the course director). 
  4. Admission to the certificate program. 

We look forward to receiving your application and to welcoming you soon at the University for Continuing Education Krems.

In combination with other continuing education programs, Stackable Programs can be combined to achieve an academic degree.

After the Academic Expert Program (AEP), many other options are open, such as an academic degree (Master).
Tatjana Kohl

The Stackable Program offers me complete flexibility in the design of my studies.

Tatjana Kohl

Student

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