Native Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies at the University of Alberta is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to explore the histories, cultures, and contemporary issues facing Indigenous peoples in Canada and around the world. This interdisciplinary program provides students with a deep understanding of Indigenous worldviews, sovereignties, and traditions, integrating perspectives from anthropology, history, political science, law, and cultural studies. Throughout their studies, students engage with Indigenous literature, art, language, and social movements, fostering a nuanced appreciation of Indigenous contributions and challenges. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural awareness, and experiential learning, encouraging students to develop skills necessary for careers in Indigenous governance, social services, education, research, and community development. Collaborative courses are often taught in partnership with Indigenous communities and organizations, offering students valuable real-world experience and opportunities for community engagement. The curriculum includes core courses that cover Indigenous histories, contemporary issues such as land rights and reconciliation, and traditional knowledge systems, as well as electives allowing specialization in areas like Indigenous law, language revitalization, and cultural expression. Students are encouraged to pursue research projects and internships that connect academic learning with community needs. The program aims to foster a respectful understanding of Indigenous cultures and contribute to positive social change. Graduates are prepared to work effectively in diverse settings that require sensitivity to Indigenous issues and a commitment to social justice. The Native Studies program at the University of Alberta is committed to supporting Indigenous students and promoting Indigenous perspectives within academia, ensuring their voices are central to the program’s intellectual environment. Whether students are interested in advocacy, policy development, education, or scholarly research, the Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies offers a rich, engaging, and impactful educational experience.

The Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies at the University of Alberta offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of Indigenous histories, cultures, languages, and contemporary issues within Canada and beyond. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Indigenous worldviews, knowledge systems, and social realities, fostering critical thinking and engagement with Indigenous communities and scholarship. The curriculum encompasses a broad range of topics, including Indigenous governance, sovereignty, treaties, traditional ecological knowledge, art, literature, and contemporary political movements. Through a combination of coursework, research projects, and community engagement, students develop a nuanced perspective on Indigenous issues and their impact on Canadian society and the world.

The program emphasizes the importance of Indigenous perspectives in shaping a more inclusive understanding of history and society. Students are encouraged to critically analyze the legacies of colonization, residential schools, and systemic inequalities, while also exploring pathways toward reconciliation and social justice. Courses are often taught by faculty members with expertise in Indigenous studies, and many classes incorporate Indigenous pedagogical approaches and oral histories.

In addition to theoretical learning, students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, co-op placements, and community projects, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in Indigenous governance, policy development, education, social work, tourism, arts, and cultural preservation, among others. It also provides a solid foundation for students wishing to pursue graduate studies in Indigenous Studies or related fields.

By completing this program, students gain critical skills in research, cross-cultural communication, and ethical engagement. They become well-equipped to contribute to Indigenous communities, governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions, promoting a greater understanding and respect for Indigenous Peoples and their diverse cultures. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies at the University of Alberta is dedicated to fostering informed, engaged, and culturally competent individuals committed to advancing Indigenous rights, knowledge, and reconciliation efforts.

The Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies at the University of Alberta requires students to complete a minimum of 120 undergraduate credits to graduate. The program emphasizes the exploration of Indigenous histories, cultures, and contemporary issues, integrating courses from various disciplines such as Anthropology, History, Political Science, and Indigenous Studies. Students must take core courses in Indigenous worldview, contemporary Indigenous issues, and research methods relevant to Native Studies. In addition to mandatory courses, students are encouraged to select electives that align with their specific interests within Indigenous communities, cultural practices, and policy studies. Practical experience through community engagement or fieldwork is also a component of the program, fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous contexts. The curriculum aims to develop critical thinking, cultural awareness, and advocacy skills, preparing graduates for careers in community development, policy analysis, education, or further academic research. Students are advised to consult academic advisors to tailor their course selections to meet their academic and career goals. Overall, the program promotes an interdisciplinary and inclusive approach to Indigenous knowledge and issues, reflecting the diversity and resilience of Indigenous peoples across Canada.

The University of Alberta offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in the Native Studies program. Undergraduate students can access various forms of financial support, including government-sponsored grants and loans, scholarships, bursaries, and work-study opportunities. The Alberta government provides student financial aid programs such as the Alberta Student Grant and the Canada Student Loans Program, which are designed to assist eligible students with tuition costs and living expenses. Additionally, many scholarships are available specifically for Indigenous students or those pursuing degrees in Native Studies, recognizing the importance of supporting Indigenous communities and promoting diversity in higher education. These scholarships often require a demonstrated commitment to Indigenous issues, academic excellence, or community involvement.

The University of Alberta also offers internal bursaries that are awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, or leadership qualities. These bursaries aim to lessen the financial burden of post-secondary education and are renewable for multiple years provided certain academic criteria are met. Students are encouraged to apply early and submit all necessary documentation to be considered for these awards. Furthermore, the university promotes work-study programs that enable students to work part-time on campus or within the local community. These positions provide students with valuable work experience and help offset educational expenses.

For international students enrolled in Native Studies, the university offers specific scholarships and financial aid options, although these may be more limited compared to domestic students. It is recommended that international students explore external funding sources, including Canadian government scholarship programs and Indigenous-specific grants from various organizations.

Students are advised to consult the university’s Financial Aid Office and the Native Student Services Centre for personalized guidance on available funding opportunities and application procedures. It is important to carefully review all eligibility criteria and deadlines to maximize chances of securing financial support. Overall, the University of Alberta is committed to making education accessible and affordable for Native Studies students through a variety of financial resources, ensuring they can focus on their academic pursuits and community contributions without undue financial stress.

The Native Studies program at the University of Alberta is dedicated to exploring the histories, cultures, languages, and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous peoples of Canada and beyond. The program offers undergraduate and graduate degrees designed to foster a deep understanding and appreciation of Indigenous worldviews, knowledge systems, and socio-political realities. It emphasizes the importance of Indigenous self-determination, cultural preservation, and reconciliation in Canadian society. The curriculum includes courses in Indigenous history, law, politics, arts, and languages, providing students with a multidisciplinary perspective. Students have opportunities to engage with Indigenous communities through fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects, thus promoting experiential learning and community-based research. The program encourages critical thinking about themes such as sovereignty, identity, and social justice, preparing graduates for careers in education, policy, community activism, and academia. The Faculty of Arts at the University of Alberta supports Native Studies through dedicated faculty members who are experts in their fields, as well as resources like Indigenous student centers and research initiatives. The program also aims to contribute to reconciliation efforts by promoting awareness and understanding of Indigenous issues and by fostering respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Overall, Native Studies at the University of Alberta serves as a vital platform for fostering Indigenous scholarship and supporting Indigenous students in their academic and community pursuits.