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Online Master of Science in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership

DurationPart-time: 18 - 24 Months | Full-time: 16 - 18 Months
locationNew York City
FORMAT Part-time | Full-time
Credits36

Online Master of Science in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership

The demand for skilled professionals who can lead organizations toward greater diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) has never been higher. In an increasingly interconnected and socially aware world, companies and institutions are recognizing that sustainable success hinges not just on innovation and profits, but also on the ability to build inclusive cultures where every voice matters.

The Online Master of Science in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership at IENYC equips you with the skills to spearhead meaningful change across diverse environments, whether in business, nonprofit or educational settings. It goes beyond traditional DEI training, integrating sustainable business practices that recognize diversity and inclusion as drivers of long-term value and positive impact.

A comprehensive and dynamic curriculum sets this program apart. You will explore global challenges and multiple dimensions of human diversity, with special emphasis on (dis)ability, gender and gender identity, language, race and ethnicity, religion and faith, sexual identity and socioeconomic status. You’ll learn to craft strategies that foster genuine inclusivity and promote meaningful social change.

At IE New York College, we’re not just molding DEI specialists: We’re nurturing leaders who can see the bigger picture and are ready to build resilient, inclusive work environments where everyone can thrive.

Apply to this program

We are not currently accepting applications to this program.

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR

This program is designed for leaders and managers passionate about advancing diversity, equity and inclusion to create lasting impact. Ideal candidates are driven, purpose-oriented and eager to implement DEI strategies that transform business, nurture inclusive cultures and promote social impact.

  • IS FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE…

    • Motivated to champion DEI initiatives and create equitable workplaces.
    • Eager to integrate DEI as a core component of organizational strategy.
    • Committed long-term to transforming systemic inequities into opportunities for positive change.
  • LOOKING FOR…

    • Practical skills in building inclusive environments that uplift diverse voices.
    • Expert insights in shaping inclusive business practices and policies.
    • Innovative strategies to navigate complex DEI challenges in a global context.
    • Opportunities to collaborate with industry leaders and implement real-world DEI solutions.
  • TO BECOME...

    • Influential DEI leaders shaping sustainable, inclusive business practices.
    • Strategic decision-makers leading sustainable, people-centered change.
    • Visionaries with the know-how to leverage DEI strategies for long-term business success and positive social impact.

Five reasons to choose this program

  • 01.

    TRANSFORMATIONAL DEI EXPERTISE

    Master the art of inclusive leadership and develop strategic change management skills, equipping yourself to champion equity and effectively guide organizations through DEI transformations.

  • 02.

    HANDS-ON LEARNING

    Become immersed in experiential research and consulting projects with leading industry partners, applying classroom knowledge to make a measurable difference in businesses and communities alike.

  • 03.

    GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

    Develop a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in DEI from a global perspective, preparing you to address complex social issues in diverse, multicultural settings.

  • 04.

    STRATEGIC LOCATIONS

    Gain unique benefits from studying in an institution based in New York City, a foremost international business hub, while benefiting from the connections of IE University, our partner in Europe.

  • 05.

    INTERNATIONAL NETWORK

    Connect with notable DEI professionals, thought leaders and organizations from around the world, expanding your professional network and career opportunities.

KEY PROGRAM INSIGHTS

Inclusive leadership is more than just good practice—it’s smart business.

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THE FOUR PILLARS OF THIS PROGRAM

  • PRACTICAL, RESEARCH-BASED CURRICULUM FOR DEI EXCELLENCE

    Acquire practical research and consulting skills in a collaborative final project addressing real-world DEI challenges for partnering companies and organizations. This pillar highlights the importance of quantitative skills, applied research and data-driven decision making in DEI leadership.

  • SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INNOVATION FOR GOOD

    Develop an entrepreneurial mindset that harnesses business as a force for social good. In this pillar, learn to design and launch DEI initiatives that tackle pressing social issues, creating sustainable ventures that are both purpose-driven and profitable.

  • ADDING LONG-TERM VALUE THROUGH SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES

    Explore how to seamlessly integrate DEI into sustainable business models, aligning profits with positive social and environmental impact for long-term organizational resilience. This pillar provides deep dives into leadership skills, program evaluation and navigating global change.

  • BUILDING INCLUSIVE WORKSPACES AND HUMAN-CENTERED CULTURES

    Master inclusive leadership techniques that empower you to lead diverse teams, inspire collaboration and drive people-centered change. This pillar emphasizes the value of fostering a sense of belonging to enhance employee engagement and retention through topics like values-based leadership.

Study Plan

Program Structure
COURSES
    Thesis
      Program Structure

      Curriculum Highlights

      • FOUNDATIONS OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

        Explore the historical, social and economic contexts that shape DEI, and analyze systemic inequalities and their impact on organizations and communities.

      • INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP & ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE

        Develop the leadership skills to implement inclusive strategies, foster equitable workplace cultures and drive organizational change aligned with DEI values.

      • SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES

        Integrate DEI into broader sustainable business practices, learning how to balance profit with purpose and design business models that prioritize social and environmental impact.

      • DATA-DRIVEN DECISION-MAKING

        Become proficient in using research- and data-driven approaches to identify gaps, track DEI progress and measure the effectiveness of inclusion strategies.

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      Career Opportunities

      Graduates of this program will be empowered to excel in a variety of roles, such as:

      • Chief diversity officer
      • Chief culture officer
      • Head of diversity and inclusion
      • DEI program manager
      • Vice president of talent, inclusion and workplace culture
      • Organizational development consultant
      • Corporate social responsibility (CSR) manager
      • Diversity training and development manager
      • Policy and advocacy advisor
      • Nonprofit program director
      • Community engagement manager