In a landscape marked by evolving social expectations, legal scrutiny, and shifting workplace dynamics, organizational approaches to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice are being actively reexamined—and at times challenged. The Leading Equity and Inclusion in Organizations Certificate (LEIOC) program at Northwestern University remains grounded in an unwavering commitment to people-centered leadership and organizational justice. While strategies may adapt over time, our values do not.
Rooted in the Master of Science in Learning and Organizational Change (MSLOC) program's strength in leading transformation, this certificate invites professionals to navigate complexity with clarity and courage—while staying grounded in the dignity and inclusion of the people they serve. Participants combine rigorous coursework with co-curricular and experiential learning, gaining the knowledge and capabilities needed to meet this moment of transition with skill, purpose, and adaptability.
The LEIOC program offers a values-based, systems-oriented approach to organizational change, equipping professionals with the self-awareness, interpersonal skills, and strategic expertise needed to foster cultures where every person can belong. Participants also learn to align equity, inclusion, and justice with organizational strategy, driving meaningful outcomes that advance both people and performance.
This certificate will be offered in a hybrid format, allowing you to participate in weekly class meetings via Zoom and attend in person 2-day intensive sessions in the fall, winter and spring. The flexibility is ideal for non-residents and working professionals.
You can earn a certificate while pursuing a Master of Science in Learning and Organizational Change (MSLOC). Sequence the certificate and degree according to your schedule and priorities.
To earn your certificate as a stand-alone graduate program credential, complete the four required courses plus co-curricular learning activities, including engagement with the LEIOC Community of Practice and receiving mentorship from a team that has deep experience in the DEIJ field.
“This program has solidified my belief that any organizational problem comes down to people and that having an equity lens strengthens the solution design and realization. I am excited to bring my toolkit, knowledge, and perspective to solving organizational challenges. ”
— Julia Bodette, LEIOC 2021, MSLOC 2022
“It was so phenomenal to have a program with the depth and breadth of work, of thinkers who are at the forefront of DEI work, who were able to bring me along as a person coming from a corporate environment into an academic setting. ”
— Dwayne Maddox, LEIOC 2022
Schedule a personal chat with an advisor, current student or alum. In-Person Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:30am-4:30pm. Remote Office Hours: Friday 9:30am-4:30pm.
847-491-7376
msloc@northwestern.edu
1800 Sherman Avenue, Suite 3500
Evanston, IL 60208
