The Education After Degree – Secondary (Indigenous Education) program at the First Nations University of Canada is a comprehensive and culturally responsive teacher preparation program designed to equip future educators with the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to serve Indigenous communities effectively. This program emphasizes the integration of Indigenous pedagogies, histories, and cultural perspectives into effective secondary school teaching practices. Students engaging in this program will benefit from an innovative curriculum that combines rigorous academic coursework with practical classroom experience, fostering the development of pedagogical strategies that are respectful, inclusive, and culturally relevant.
The program is tailored to meet the unique needs of Indigenous students aspiring to become secondary teachers, providing them with a supportive learning environment that respects and promotes Indigenous worldviews and values. Throughout the program, students will explore topics such as Indigenous history, language revitalization, Indigenous ways of knowing, and culturally responsive teaching methods. This knowledge equips educators to create a learning environment that is safe, welcoming, and reflective of Indigenous cultural identities and perspectives.
In addition to academic coursework, students will participate in practicum placements within Indigenous and mainstream schools to gain hands-on teaching experience. These placements allow aspiring teachers to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, receive mentorship from experienced educators, and develop classroom management skills rooted in Indigenous pedagogical approaches. The program also encourages ongoing research and reflection on Indigenous education issues, preparing graduates to become leaders and advocates for Indigenous students and communities.
Graduates of the Education After Degree – Secondary (Indigenous Education) program will be well-prepared to work as secondary school teachers in Indigenous and mainstream schools. They will possess the cultural competency, pedagogical expertise, and community awareness necessary to foster positive learning outcomes for Indigenous youth. Moreover, the program aims to inspire educators who are committed to social justice, equity, and reconciliation through their teaching practices. Graduates are encouraged to engage in lifelong learning and community collaboration to continually improve Indigenous education and contribute meaningfully to the development of culturally sustaining educational environments.
The Education After Degree ??? Secondary (Indigenous Education) program at First Nations University of Canada is a comprehensive postgraduate pathway designed to prepare educators with a deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories, and pedagogies. This program aims to equip future teachers with the specialized skills necessary to support Indigenous students and communities effectively, fostering an inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment. Throughout the program, students engage with a diverse curriculum that covers Indigenous worldviews, language revitalization, decolonization strategies, and current issues facing Indigenous peoples in the educational system. The coursework emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills, providing opportunities for students to develop their pedagogical techniques through field experiences, internships, and community-based projects. Emphasizing collaborative learning, the program encourages students to work closely with Indigenous elders, educators, and community members, ensuring that their teaching practices are rooted in respect and cultural authenticity. The program also offers workshops and seminars on Indigenous sovereignty, storytelling methods, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge systems into mainstream curricula. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to work as certified teachers in Indigenous schools, community education programs, and broader educational settings that serve Indigenous populations. They will be equipped to advocate for Indigenous perspectives within the education sector and contribute to the ongoing movement towards equitable and culturally sensitive education. The program’s unique approach combines academic rigor with cultural relevance, aiming to produce educators who are not only qualified but also committed to advancing Indigenous education and supporting Indigenous learners’ success.
The Education After Degree ??? Secondary (Indigenous Education) program at First Nations University of Canada requires applicants to possess an appropriate undergraduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution. prospective students must submit official transcripts demonstrating their prior academic performance, along with a completed application form, a statement of intent outlining their interest in Indigenous education, and letters of reference from academic or professional sources familiar with their qualifications. In addition to these foundational documents, applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS, unless they have completed previous studies in an English-language institution. The program emphasizes a strong understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories, and pedagogical approaches, so prior knowledge or experience in Indigenous communities or education is advantageous. Once admitted, students are required to complete coursework in Indigenous pedagogies, curriculum development, and classroom management tailored to Indigenous contexts, along with practicum placements in local Indigenous communities. The program also includes components on Indigenous languages and cross-cultural communication to prepare educators for effective teaching in diverse settings. To graduate, students must complete a specified number of credit hours, successfully pass all coursework assessments, participate in community-based projects, and demonstrate reflective practice through portfolios or presentations. The program aims to develop culturally competent educators who can support Indigenous students and promote reconciliation within the educational system. Continuous evaluation through assignments, participation, and practicum performance ensures that graduates meet the professional standards expected by the university. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for certification as secondary school teachers with specialization in Indigenous education, enabling them to work in schools across Canada, particularly within Indigenous communities.
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
The Education After Degree ??? Secondary (Indigenous Education) program at First Nations University of Canada offers a variety of financial aid options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore funding opportunities such as government student loans and grants, which are available to eligible students based on financial need and academic merit. The Saskatchewan Student Finance program provides loans and bursaries specifically for students attending institutions within Saskatchewan, including First Nations University of Canada. Additionally, the Indigenous students may access dedicated bursaries and scholarships funded by provincial and federal government programs, as well as by Indigenous organizations committed to supporting Indigenous education and community development.
In addition to government funding, the university offers various scholarship opportunities. These include merit-based scholarships awarded to students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, or community involvement. First Nations University of Canada also partners with Indigenous communities and organizations to provide targeted funding and bursary programs to support Indigenous students pursuing graduate or undergraduate studies in education and related fields. Some scholarships are offered directly through the university’s Office of Student Services, with application processes designed to assist students in securing financial support.
Students are urged to complete the Saskatchewan Student Loans and Awards Application, as well as apply for university-specific scholarships early to maximize their funding options. The university’s financial aid office provides personalized assistance to guide students through the application processes and identify eligibility for various funding sources. Work-study programs are also available for qualified students, offering part-time employment opportunities on campus that help students offset their educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience.
Students should consider additional funding sources such as private scholarships from Indigenous organizations, which often have specific eligibility criteria related to community service, academic performance, or commitment to Indigenous culture and language. Some students may explore employer-sponsored education assistance programs if they are employed or have sponsorship from community organizations. Payment plans may be arranged through the university’s bursar office, allowing students to spread their tuition payments over a semester or year to make financing more manageable.
It is important for students to stay informed about application deadlines and specific requirements for each funding opportunity. The university encourages early planning and proactive engagement with financial aid advisors to ensure they access all available resources. The overall goal of these financial aid options is to reduce barriers to education for Indigenous students and to promote equitable access to advanced educational opportunities. Through these combined efforts, students enrolled in the Education After Degree ??? Secondary (Indigenous Education) program can focus on their studies with less financial worry, supporting their career goals of becoming educators dedicated to serving Indigenous communities and cultures.
The Education After Degree ??? Secondary (Indigenous Education) program at the First Nations University of Canada is designed to prepare educators who are committed to serving Indigenous communities through culturally relevant and responsive teaching. This program builds on prior post-secondary education, offering a pathway for individuals who already hold an undergraduate degree and wish to specialize in Indigenous education at the secondary school level. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of Indigenous knowledge, histories, and pedagogical practices into teaching strategies, fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures and the unique educational needs of Indigenous students.
Students in this program are introduced to core concepts of Indigenous worldviews, language revitalization, and community engagement, equipping future educators with the skills necessary to create inclusive and equitable learning environments. The program includes practical components such as student teaching placements in Indigenous communities, allowing candidates to gain firsthand experience and strengthen their teaching competencies within real-world contexts. Collaboration with Indigenous elders and community leaders is an integral part of the training, ensuring that future teachers are grounded in the cultural realities of the populations they will serve.
The program often collaborates with Indigenous organizations and institutions to offer a comprehensive, culturally sensitive education that promotes respect for Indigenous sovereignty and traditions. Graduates of the program are prepared to work in secondary schools across Indigenous and non-Indigenous settings, where they can support students' academic success while honoring their cultural identities. The curriculum aligns with national standards for teacher certification and Indigenous educational priorities, fostering a workforce of educators who are both academically prepared and culturally competent.
Given the First Nations University of Canada's focus on Indigenous education and community-led learning, students also engage with research and policy analysis related to Indigenous schooling, advocating for equitable educational opportunities. The program typically spans one year of full-time study, although part-time options may be available, and leads to a Teacher Certification in Saskatchewan or other provinces depending on accreditation arrangements. Overall, this program aims to contribute to the development of Indigenous educators who are devoted to transforming education systems and improving outcomes for Indigenous youth through culturally meaningful instruction and community involvement.