The Ten Best Degrees For Students With a Passion for Inclusivity and Equity

Different factors drive students when they choose their field of study. For some, it is the money and prestige associated with specific careers, while for others, it involves following their passions. Inclusivity and equity have become essential discussion topics in recent years as society has tried to become fairer and more just. Students passionate about inclusivity and equity have numerous avenues available if they want careers where they can help others reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. Below are some of the best degrees that can help them contribute to the well-being and advancement of others. 

Social Work

Social work is a great degree choice for students with a passion for inclusivity and equity, as it can allow them to make a direct impact on communities. Social workers are trained in ways to empower individuals and communities while addressing issues such as systemic injustices. Earning a degree in social work also enables students to specialize in specific areas, allowing them to focus on the social justice causes they are most passionate about. Completing a social work degree can open doors to various career paths in schools, government agencies, hospitals, community centers, nonprofit organizations, and more.  

Counseling Psychology

Completing a counseling psychology degree equips students to work with clients from diverse cultural, ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Counseling psychologists provide culturally sensitive and inclusive counseling services. They can also collaborate with other organizations to address systemic issues that could impact communities' mental health. Working as a counseling psychologist is a great way to empower individuals to thrive.   

Public Policy

A public policy degree can benefit students who want to contribute to positive societal change. Public policy plays a significant role in the laws and regulations that impact the lives of individuals and communities. With a public policy degree, students can learn to better understand these policies and advocate for changes that promote inclusivity and equity. It can enable them to pursue careers in nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, consulting firms, and more. 

International Law and Human Rights

We live in a complex global society, and an international law and human rights degree can teach students about the intersection between law and human rights. This degree is helpful for students who want to be lawyers specializing in human rights or non-lawyers interested in human rights protection. Students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to hold human rights violators accountable for their actions. After earning this degree, students will also be ready to promote inclusivity and equity at an international level. 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Students who want to positively impact the world through their careers and become agents for change can benefit from a diversity, equity, and inclusion degree. This degree is aimed at students who are passionate about societal change that affects the underrepresented and often includes courses that are part of a business administration minor. Students are taught to understand the factors contributing to inequality and exclusion while honing their critical analysis skills. 

Gender and Women's Studies

A gender and women's studies degree enables students to study how equity and social justice are connected to gender, sexuality, and identity. This knowledge allows them to use more comprehensive approaches to promoting inclusivity and equity. The degree is helpful for students who want to understand gender-based inequalities and injustices and use their skills for empowerment and advocacy. 

Community Development

A community development degree is great for students who are passionate about inclusivity and equity. It teaches them how to deal with issues like inequality, poverty, and injustice. The degree analyzes some of the root causes of inequality and equips students with the skills needed to promote social justice and systemic change. Students can use their skills to work collaboratively with communities, which will help them empower these communities so that they can address their own needs and aspirations. 

Education

Education degrees are available with a concentration in diversity, equity, and social justice. These degrees are aimed at students who want to be change agents in educational policy and practice. They focus on diversity and equity in both formal and informal educational settings and often emphasize aspects such as anti-oppressive theories and pedagogies. After completing an education degree with a concentration in diversity, equity, and social justice, students can take on leadership roles in various fields, including education and the nonprofit sector.  

Labor and Employment Relations

A labor and employment relations degree can help students become advocates for workers' rights and ensure fair labor practices and equitable treatment in the workplace. The degree covers topics such as human behavior in organizations, diversity and inclusivity issues, employment law, workplace leadership, collective bargaining, and more. When combined with a diversity in the workplace concentration, this degree can lead to careers such as diversity specialist, public policy advocate, and public agency staff. 

Nonprofit Management and Leadership

Students passionate about inclusivity and equity are often drawn to nonprofit work. Organizations in this sector need leaders and managers who can successfully address their missions. A nonprofit management and leadership degree can equip students to lead and manage these organizations. Many of these organizations are committed to advancing inclusivity, equity, and social justice, making it a perfect fit for students who want to make a positive impact on their communities and beyond.  

Conclusion

Diversity, equity, and inclusion have become essential focus areas for many businesses in recent years as they strive to become more diverse and inclusive. Students with a passion for inclusivity and equity will find that with the right degree, there are numerous avenues where they can put their skills to good use. Everyone deserves to be valued, respected, and treated fairly, making the work of those passionate about inclusivity and equity incredibly important.