Is First Nations Studies for you?

If you are interested in the culture, ancient and modern histories, art, politics and languages of First Nations peoples, then the answer is “yes”. Students in the Department are encouraged to have an open mind, and to be curious, accepting and understanding of different cultural values and new ways of thinking.

Areas of study

First Nations Studies offers courses on First Nations issues from a First Nations perspective, especially related to traditional knowledge and practice. First Nations elders, community members and scholars are frequently invited to share their knowledge and expertise with our students.

Students may take a range of courses on the cultures, languages and origins of Canada’s first peoples, Aboriginal peoples’ perspectives on history, First Nations research methods, Aboriginal rights and government relations, First Nations literature, First Nations women in Canada, and indigenous knowledge in the modern world. Students gain the opportunity to participate in an Aboriginal Studies field school jointly offered with universities in Australia and New Zealand, and to choose from several academic streams [e.g. major, joint major, minor, post baccalaureate diploma, certificates].

Where can First Nations Studies take you?

• Aboriginal community administration and leadership
• Policy analysis or research
• First Nations environmental and heritage resource management
• Secondary or post-secondary teaching
• Aboriginal language instruction
• First Nations Museology and Art
• Law, Human Rights and Justice
• Consulting on First Nations in the private or public sector
• Cultural resource management in First Nations communities
• Public administration, civil service and governance

First Nations Studies Department website

Saywell Hall Room 9091
Tel: (778) 782-4774
Fax: (778) 782-4989

Director: Eldon Yellowhorn
Manager, Academic and Administrative Services: Lorraine Yam
Advisor: Lorraine Yam