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Explore the histories, current realities, and political issues affecting Indigenous communities in Canada and globally. This multidisciplinary program emphasizes that profound comprehension and ethical involvement are vital for the thriving of revitalized Indigenous societies and crucial for fostering more respectful relationships between Indigenous peoples and settlers.
The First Nations and Indigenous Studies program welcomes all undergraduate students as an interdisciplinary field of study. You'll take foundational courses covering key subjects and methodologies important to First Nations communities, while also choosing from related courses across various departments.
Senior students in First Nations and Indigenous Studies undertake a 6-credit research practicum collaborating with an Indigenous organization. This hands-on experience helps develop skills in creating, coordinating, and executing research initiatives that address community priorities.
You can pursue Major or Minor specializations, or combine them with Double Major or Major-Minor configurations to align with your other academic interests.
Career prospects
Through the FNIS program's interdisciplinary approach, you'll acquire extensive knowledge of Indigenous political theory, governance, arts, literature, and modern social issues, along with relevant subjects from other disciplines. This robust preparation opens doors to diverse career paths such as cultural heritage manager, youth counselor, media specialist, academic advisor, museum director, community outreach coordinator, and beyond. FNIS alumni have successfully entered prestigious graduate programs across North America and internationally.
Graduation from a university-preparatory program at a senior secondary school: Higher Secondary School Certificate awarded on completion of Standard XII. Certificates must be official. Photocopies are acceptable if certified by school principal, head, or counsellor. Notarized copies are not acceptable.
English Language Admission Standard: Canadian Academic English Language assessment - Overall 70; Cambridge English Qualifications – 180; UBC Certificate in English – 600; International English Language Testing System (Academic) - 6.5, with no part less than 6.0; Pearson Test of English (Academic) - Overall: 65, Reading: 60, Listening: 60, Writing: 60, Speaking: 60; Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based test - Overall: 90, Reading: 22, Listening: 22, Writing: 21, Speaking: 21.