Indigenous Studies
Undergraduate Program Overview
All Students
Explore Indigenous Knowledge. Engage in Cultural Revitalization. Empower Communities.
Nipissing University’s Indigenous Studies program offers a transformative learning experience that explores Indigenous histories, cultures, governance, and contemporary issues. Rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems, this program equips students with the critical thinking skills and cultural awareness needed to support reconciliation, community development, and policy change in Canada and beyond.
Program Highlights
Nipissing University’s Indigenous Studies program offers a transformative and culturally grounded learning experience. Students explore Indigenous histories, governance, cultures, languages, and contemporary issues affecting Indigenous communities in Northern Ontario, across Canada, and globally.
Through coursework, community engagement, and research opportunities, students develop the cultural awareness and critical thinking skills required to support reconciliation, community development, and policy change.
Program Related Certificates:
Resources
Program Related
Why Nipissing's Indigenous Studies Program?
Rooted in Indigenous Knowledge Systems
Learn from faculty whose teaching and research are grounded in Indigenous worldviews, reciprocity, and community connections.
Flexible Study Options
Choose online, in-person, or a blend of both to suit your learning style and personal commitments.
Holistic & Interdisciplinary Curriculum
Explore Indigenous governance, languages, cultural practices, history, and contemporary issues shaping Indigenous–Crown relations today.
Community Engagement & Partnerships
Participate in community-based learning, collaborations with local Indigenous organizations, and opportunities to learn from Elders and Knowledge Holders.
Supportive Environment
Benefit from smaller classes, mentorship opportunities, and access to the Office of Indigenous Initiatives.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission, students must meet the General Admission Requirements, plus program specific prerequisites.
General Admission Requirements include:
Ontario Secondary School Diploma including six 4U/4M courses
Future Careers
Where Can an Indigenous Studies Degree Take You?
- Policy & Governance: Work with government agencies, Indigenous communities, or advocacy groups to shape policies, support self-determination, and improve services.
- Cultural Revitalization & Community Engagement: Support language revitalization, land-based education, and cultural programming in schools, museums, and community organizations.
- Education & Public Awareness: Promote reconciliation through curriculum development, outreach, community education, or museum programming.
- Research & Historical Preservation: Contribute to oral history projects, community-led research, and archival preservation of Indigenous knowledge and traditions.
Real People, Real Impact
I love the Bachelor of Indigenous Studies and History program because of the amazing opportunities to research Indigenous histories and ways of knowing!
William M.
Class of 2029
From day one, I felt welcomed as a First Nation student at a university rooted in the traditional territory of Nipissing First Nation, within the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850, that actively fosters a warm and inclusive environment in partnership with the Office of Indigenous Initiatives.
Tanya M.
Class of 2023
Program Requirements
How the Common Degree Structure Works
At Nipissing, you can choose a minor, major, specialization, or honours specialization—each offering a different level of focus and flexibility to match your goals.
Check out this breakdown of the Common Degree Structure to see how you can make your interests fit your degree.
Program Options & Course Requirements
Find required courses for each type of specialization using this link.
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Disclaimer:
While every effort is made to ensure accuracy on this site, in the event of a discrepancy, Nipissing’s Academic Calendar is the official reference.