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Learn about gender equity with online courses and programs

Gender equity is the act of treating people of all genders fairly. It addresses different forms of discrimination and violence to work toward ensuring that every person in society is safe, happy, and able to pursue their interests without barriers.

What is gender equity?

Gender equity aims to eliminate gender-based discrimination and bias and provide individuals with equal access to opportunities, resources, and rights, regardless of their gender. It recognizes that anyone should have equal access to opportunities in various aspects of life, such as education, employment, politics, and social participation.

Some of the key components in achieving gender equity include:

  • Eradicating discrimination and stereotypes that can limit someone’s ability to pursue their interests and goals.

  • Implementing non-discriminatory policies that can promote inclusivity, such as fair employment practices.

  • Recognizing intersectional experiences, which may compound the challenges that some individuals face.

Closing the gender gap is part of a broader effort toward gender equality, which focuses on correcting historical and systemic disparities between genders. As an active participant in any society, you can position yourself as an advocate for gender equity by learning about the complexities of gender inequality.

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Gender equity course curriculum

Understanding gender equity means looking at the ways in which sex and gender have been framed in cultural and social context throughout history. As you embark on your learning journey, start with courses that address the ways in which gender is understood, constructed, and performed. Classes may encourage learners to question the representations of genders in different regions of the world and how they impact conversations around gender identity.

Business leaders may also find it helpful to gain important tools to model and practice effective gender partnership as a means of creating meaningful change in the workplace. You can learn why gender partnership matters and what effective partnerships look like. You may also want to explore gender in the wider context of workplace equity, which can help you develop a stronger understanding of unconscious bias and the communication skills to foster more inclusive spaces.

Learning about gender equity can supplement your experience in almost any field. edX offers a variety of educational opportunities for learners interested in studying these topics, as well as a host of other disciplines. A boot camp can provide flexible hands-on learning for those who want to upskill quickly, while executive education courses are designed for busy professionals. You can also pursue a more comprehensive curriculum in a bachelor’s degree program or, for more advanced learners, a master’s degree program. Find the right learning path for you.

Explore jobs focused on gender equity

Promoting gender equity is important in all facets of society. Many professionals spend their careers working with individuals to help them navigate gender-related issues. Others may use their expertise to advise organizations or clients in ways they can achieve gender equity. Here are some of the roles that contribute to gender equity efforts:

  • Human resources manager: Plays a crucial role in ensuring that workplaces have gender-inclusive policies, practices, and anti-discrimination measures.1

  • Diversity and inclusion manager: Focuses on creating inclusive environments that embrace diversity, including gender diversity, within organizations.2

  • Physician: May be involved in ensuring equitable access to healthcare services, addressing gender-specific health concerns, and promoting reproductive rights.3

  • Elementary school teacher: Plays a role in promoting gender equity through inclusive curricula and classroom practices.4

  • Social worker: Provides support to individuals and families affected by gender-based discrimination, violence, or inequality.5

Each of these roles will have different education and skills requirements. For example, some employers may seek candidates with a degree in education or social work, depending on the role. Before deciding on a specific learning path, research the positions you hope to pursue and align your coursework with your career goals.

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    1. What Human Resources Managers Do. (2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 27, 2023.

    2. What does a Diversity and Inclusion Manager do?Indeed. Retrieved September 27, 2023.

    3. What Physicians and Surgeons Do. (2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 27, 2023.

    4. What Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers Do. (2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 27, 2023.

    5. What Social Workers Do. (2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 27, 2023.