Charles Sturt University

What you'll study

This short postgraduate qualification introduces core concepts and applied practice in intersectionality, diversity and inclusion. The program typically comprises a sequence of postgraduate subjects that combine theory, evidence and workplace-focused application.

• Foundations of Intersectionality and Inclusion — key theoretical frameworks, historical and contemporary debates, and how intersectional analysis is used to understand overlapping systems of disadvantage and privilege.
• Inclusive Policy and Program Design — principles and methods for designing policies, programs and services that respond to diverse needs and reduce structural barriers.
• Inclusive Leadership and Organisational Change — leadership approaches, change management, stakeholder engagement and strategies to embed inclusion into organisational culture and practice.
• Data, Evaluation and Evidence for Inclusion — approaches to collecting and using quantitative and qualitative data, monitoring outcomes and evaluating the impact of diversity initiatives.
• Practical Project or Applied Workplace Unit — an applied assessment or workplace-based project that allows you to apply learning to a real-world inclusion challenge.

Delivery is designed to be accessible to working professionals, using a combination of online learning, case studies and applied assessment tasks. Subjects emphasise interdisciplinary perspectives, critical reflection and strategies that can be implemented across sectors including government, not-for-profit, education and corporate settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold an undergraduate degree (or recognised equivalent) in any discipline. Charles Sturt University also considers applicants with substantial professional experience in relevant fields such as human resources, community services, education or policy development where the undergraduate degree requirement is not met.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating completion of a recognised bachelor degree, or evidence of equivalent professional experience.
• For international applicants, demonstration of English language proficiency to the university's required standard is necessary (e.g. recognised test scores or prior study in English).
• Some applicants may be asked to provide a resume and a statement outlining their reasons for undertaking the program and how it aligns with their professional practice.

Career prospects

Graduates develop practical skills and frameworks relevant to roles that require leadership in diversity and inclusion. Common career directions include:

• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) advisor or manager within public, private or not-for-profit organisations.
• Human resources professional with a focus on inclusive recruitment, retention and workplace culture.
• Policy advisor or program officer working on social inclusion, community development or social policy.
• Consultant or practitioner delivering training, audits and practical interventions to improve accessibility and equity.
• A foundation for further postgraduate study in related areas such as social policy, governance or education.

Why study at Charles Sturt University

Charles Sturt University is known for its strong focus on work-integrated learning and accessible, flexible delivery that suits working professionals. The university offers practice-led curriculum with connections to regional, public sector and community organisations, enabling applied projects and real-world learning opportunities.

• Flexible study modes, including online learning, to support study alongside ongoing employment and professional commitments.
• Interdisciplinary teaching staff with expertise in social policy, human resources, community engagement and applied research.
• Emphasis on applied assessment and workplace-relevant projects that help you translate theory into action in diverse organisational contexts.
• Support services for professional development, academic skills and career planning designed for postgraduate students.