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A Proven Process for Inclusive Excellence
CDP® and CDE® Certification
Choosing the Right Diversity and Inclusion Certification Program for Your Goals
The field of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is increasingly competitive and complex.
With recent demographic trends, globalization, and compliance requirements, there are thousands of Diversity officers, consultants, and human resource professionals who are charged with implementing DEI initiatives around the world.
That's why it's critically important to stand out as a knowledgeable and well-qualified Diversity and Inclusion practitioner. The Institute for Diversity Certification (IDC)® can help you do just that.
IDC® offers two credentials that demonstrate excellence in DEI: the Certified Diversity Professional (CDP)® and the Certified Diversity Executive (CDE)®.
- The CDP® is a foundational certification that is ideal for individuals who are new to DEIA or who want to gain a basic understanding of Diversity and Inclusion principles and practices.
- The CDE® is a more advanced certification that is designed for individuals who have experience in DEI or are responsible for the strategic direction of their organizations.
Both the CDP® and CDE® programs require successful completion of an exam and a peer-reviewed Candidate Project. Candidates have one year from their registration date to complete both the exam and project.
Certified Diversity Professional (CDP)®
CDP® Candidates are new to DEIA or want to gain a foundational understanding of DEI principles and practices.
CDP® Eligibility:
- At least 2 years of experience
- A passing score on the CDP® examination (at least 73.0%)
- A passing score on the Candidate Project or approved professional work
- Compliance with IDC’s Code of Ethics and Standard of Practice
CDP® Experience includes paid or volunteer work in DEIA, human resources, Affirmative Action/EEO, disability programming, gender studies, multicultural affairs, organizational development, management, legal, multi-cultural marketing and communications, sales, recruiting, training, strategic planning, supplier diversity, consulting, or diversity council / resource group participation, to name a few.
CDP® Domains:
- A. Manage DEIA Planning, ROI, and Budget
- B. Lead DEIA Organizational Integration Efforts
- C. Promote DEIA Organizational Culture and Engagement
- D. Manage DEIA Initiatives
- E. Partner With HR to Implement DEIA Strategies
- F. Coordinate DEIA Education and Development
- G. Influence Organization's DEIA Communications
- H. Apply DEIA to Organizational Policies and Compliance Activities
- I. Complete Personal DEIA Professional Development
CDP® Candidate Project Blueprint
Note: These knowledge areas and the overall passing score may change based upon a new job task analysis, which occurs every 3-5 years.
Certified Diversity Executive (CDE)®
CDE® Candidates are managers and leaders responsible for setting the vision and strategy for their organizations.
CDE® Eligibility:
- At least 5 years of experience
- A current leadership role
- A passing score on the CDE® examination (at least 74.0%)
- A passing score on the Candidate Project or approved professional work
- Compliance with IDC’s Code of Ethics and Standard of Practice
CDE® Experience includes one's professional history of managing people or projects, including, but not be limited to, being directly accountable for DEIA, planning, operations, talent management, finances, legal/risk management, marketing/sales, and technology.
A current leadership role includes those who have terminated employment within the last six (6) months. Candidates may serve on a board; oversee an agency, town/city/state/nation, or enterprise; manage (or aspire to manage) a division or department; lead a resource group or diversity council; or work in any other decision-making capacity. The individual may or may not have direct reports.
CDE® Domains:
- A. Engage In Professional Self-Development and Continuous Learning
- B. Advance Leadership for Organizational DEIA
- C. Manage DEIA Strategic Planning and Budget
- D. Champion Organizational DEIA Policies, Compliance, and Governance
- E. Champion Organizational Values and Inclusive Culture
- F. Advance Organizational Staff Education, Development, and Training
- G. Leverage DEIA Stakeholders and Partnerships
- H. Lead Organizational DEIA Initiatives and Integration Efforts
- I. Collaborate On DEIA Organizational Communications and Engagement
CDE® Candidate Project Blueprint
Note: These knowledge areas and the overall passing score may change based upon a new job task analysis, which occurs every 3-5 years.
Which program is right for you?
The CDP® and CDE® programs are both valuable certifications for individuals who are interested in diversity and inclusion in workplaces. However, the two programs were designed for different audiences and have different requirements.
- If you are new to DEI or want to gain a foundational understanding of DEI principles and practices, then the CDP® program may be the best fit.
- If you have experience in DEIA and want to demonstrate your expertise in the field or if you're a leader of your organization, then the CDE® program may be a better option for you.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which program is right for you is to consider your own goals and your own level of experience. If you need help understanding which program is right for you, then please contact IDC; we're happy to help.
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