Perceptions of diversity, equity, and inclusion within undergraduate curriculum and university: A qualitative study

Abstract

Objective Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts are important at university campuses, especially preparing students for the workforce. This study aimed to identify perceptions of DEI among seniors related to their major curriculum and at the university. Participants In Spring 2021, 101 graduating seniors, who are future health professionals, completed an online survey. Methods Open-ended and multiple-choice survey items were analyzed. Thematic coding for open-ended questions and SPSS was used for the quantitative analysis. Results Analyses revealed the university kept students informed of DEI activities; however, more could be done. In the department, participants reported that classes focused on DEI activities; however, some faculty entered classrooms without evaluating their own implicit biases. Future suggestions include creating a DEI-focused course and increasing faculty and student representation from underrepresented backgrounds. Conclusions Findings from this study can be used to inform DEI-related courses as well as faculty hiring and student recruitment guidelines.