How to become Equalities officer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- a college course
- applying directly
University
You could do a degree in a relevant subject, such as:
- law
- psychology
- sociology
- community or youth studies
- human resources
Postgraduate courses
You could also do a postgraduate qualification if you want to learn more about equality and diversity.
You could study something like:
- disability studies
- race and ethnic relations
- equality and diversity studies
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
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College
You could get an introduction to this type of work from a relevant college course, like a Level 2 Certificate in Equality and Diversity.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
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Apprenticeship
You could do an advanced apprenticeship in HR support to help you get started in this role.
This typically takes about 18 months to complete and is a mix of learning in the workplace and the classroom.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Volunteering
You will find it useful if you have experience of working in the community.
You can get this by volunteering:
- to help with equality and diversity issues in a student union or trade union
- with a local community group, tenants' association or charity
- in a related career like housing, regeneration, social work or youth work
Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs if you have work experience and knowledge of equal opportunities issues and laws.
You might find it helpful to have experience in human resources, youth and community work or social work when you are looking for jobs.
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Career tips
If you want to work as an equality and diversity officer in a school, you may first need to qualify as a teacher.
Professional and industry bodies
Some employers will prefer you to be a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
Further information
You can find out more about working as an equalities officer from the Equality and Human Rights Commission.