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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University
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Indigenous Studies Certificate

Develop a better understanding of the priorities and aspirations of Indigenous peoples, locally and beyond.

Actively explore through an interdisciplinary field of inquiry that seeks to understand the ways in which Indigenous peoples worldwide—despite their incredible diversity—share a common experience of colonization. Learn and think about historical contexts, political struggles, cultural expressions, and the lived ongoing effects of colonialism.

Why pursue an Indigenous Studies Certificate at TRU?

Concentrate on Indigenous studies as part of your degree as you are encouraged to analyze issues through a broad range of disciplinary course offerings. As Indigenous issues cross disciplinary boundaries, so too does this certificate.

Unique perspectives offered by Indigenous cultures and communities

An important goal of this certificate is to provide an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners to study Indigenous knowledge in creative, transformative and critical ways.

Bring your knowledge into your community through your chosen career path

The program offers courses that generate a rigorous and respectful understanding of Indigenous peoples’ languages, knowledge, cultures, histories, politics, arts, and traditions.

Program Details

Credential
Indigenous Studies Certificate
Delivery
Kamloops
Length
24 credits
Intake dates
September, January, May
Applications
Now accepting applications

Apply now Request more info Visit the program website Print this page
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What will I learn?

Explore past relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

Gain an understanding of the history of the Indigenous peoples of what is now Canada. Begin with pre-contact perspectives, with an emphasis on the social, cultural, political, economic and interactions.

You’ll learn about the present situation of the Indigenous peoples of what is now Canada, interpreted on the basis of contemporary and historical political, economic and cultural developments, including the Indian Act and the reserve system.

Explore regional variation and adaptation in economy, technology, language, religion, art, medicine and kinship. Understand the contemporary application of narrative structure that shapes the literature of Indigenous cultures, focusing on poetry, drama, short stories, novels, and essays.

89% of employed respondents were in a job related to their program
100% said the quality of instruction was very good, good, or adequate
40% took further studies

*For outcomes, please see this government site. (There is no information available for Master-level programs.)

Requirements

Admission requirements

Admission requirements

  • Grade 12 (or equivalent) or mature student status
  • English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum of 73% (or equivalent)

Career Options / Laddering options

Where will this certificate take me?

Graduates of Indigenous studies programs can find work across several different industries. Just a few of these include:

  • Education
  • Social Work
  • Schools
  • Day Cares
  • Clinics
  • Hospitals
  • Law Firms
  • Non-profit Organizations
  • Community Development
  • Journalism
  • Public Policy Analysis
  • Government Relations

Laddering options

24-credit certificate students can obtain in the course of completing a degree.

Graduates who meet the certificate credit requirements receive an Indigenous Studies Certificate, which can ladder into the completion of their degree.

Indigenous Studies students have gone on to study at the undergraduate, graduate and professional level in programs such as community development and health, anthropology, archaeology, education, environmental studies, geography, law, literature, medicine, political science and social work.

“I really value the new perspectives I have gained through my Indigenous studies. Being able to not only understand, but also use the traditional knowledge of Indigenous cultures will help me succeed in my career in natural resource management.”
—Owen Powers

“Doing the Indigenous Studies Certificate was an incredibly enlightening and enriching experience. Being able to learn from Dr. Lisa Cooke and the other students is a privilege I will always be grateful for.”
—Jessica Kent

Students wearing orange shirts Old Main Indigenous statue Kamloops background with people taking photos Indigenous meetup Indigenous drums Student graduating

Tuition & Fees

Cost for this program per semester:

  • Canadian
  • International
Choose the number of courses:
1741357
Tuition $0.00
Fees $0.00
Books and supplies
Typically about $150 per course
$0.00
Total (CDN) $0.00

Does not include a lab fee of $23.03 that may apply to some courses.

These are only estimates - your actual cost may vary.


Do you have questions about this program?

Canadian students
Email: admissions@tru.ca
Phone: 250-828-5036

Lisa Cooke, Sociology and Anthropology
Phone: 250-852-7290

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