South Offering Diversity and Cultural Competence Certificate Program

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Posted on July 27, 2023

Lance Crawford

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The University of South Alabama is now offering an undergraduate certificate in Diversity and Cultural Competence. The certificate program provides students with an in-depth understanding of contemporary social diversity needed to successfully interact with clients, patients, students, co-workers and community members from a broad spectrum of experiences and cultures in a diverse and global society.  

“The capacity to understand and work with people different from oneself creates a dynamic and creative workforce that builds on everyone’s strengths,” said Dr. Laureen Fregeau, ​​USA’s coordinator for the ​​Diversity and Cultural Competence certificate program.​ “Being culturally competent leaves the impression that one’s behavior is appropriate and effective in each context.”

Either current undergraduate students at South or others seeking to earn a stand-alone certificate can enroll. 

The program requires 15 credit hours, nine of them in core courses and six in electives selected from courses in two of nine categories related to diversity and cultural competence. A minimum grade of C is required in all courses.

“The certificate program provides students with an in-depth understanding of contemporary social diversity needed to be a success in today’s business world,” Fregeau said.  

The National Association of Colleges and Employers, in consultation with employers in all fields, has identified eight competencies that employers desire in potential employees. They are career and self development, communication, critical thinking, leadership, professionalism, teamwork, technology, and equity and inclusion. 

There are a variety of careers and abundant employment opportunities for individuals who can work with people from underrepresented groups. Understanding diversity and culture is critical in successful recruitment and retention of employees from the spectrum of backgrounds that makes businesses, institutions of higher education, public agencies and other organizations competitive in markets beyond the dominant culture. 

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