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Indigenous-Focused Academic Programs

The University of Winnipeg actively encourages faculty to incorporate Indigenous perspectives and content in their coursework. Study in the area of Indigenous peoples is integrated in several degree programs, including Anthropology, Education, English, History, Political Science, Religion and Culture, and Sociology, and the University offers language courses in Ininew (Cree) and Anishnabemowin (Ojibway), the two most commonly spoken Indigenous languages in Canada. We have developed a variety of degree and diploma programs specifically to meet the evolving needs of First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students.

  • Master’s in Development Practice (MDP) in Indigenous Development is unique in the world. This program began in September 2011, in partnership with the MacArthur Foundation and as part of a global network of 22 leading universities. The University of Winnipeg has established an MDP Indigenous Advisory Circle led by Dr. Phil Fontaine, former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. The MDP focuses on applied learning in the fields of natural sciences, social sciences, health, and management to provide development practitioners with the tools to work with communities in a holistic practice to address local and global challenges.

  • Master of Arts (MA) in Indigenous Governance is one of the only graduate programs of its kind in Canada. Students earn an MA in Indigenous Governance, a multidisciplinary program grounded in an understanding of Indigenous peoples’ values, principles, and philosophies. An international focus will prepare students of all backgrounds to take leadership positions in the private and public sectors, to create and influence policy, to creatively approach development from an Indigenous perspective, and to promote the visibility and recognition of sovereign Indigenous peoples and communities in Canada and abroad. A pre-MA program is available for students who need additional coursework prior to applying for the MA.

Indigenous Programs UWinnipeg Graduate Tim Coughlan


  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Indigenous Studies is offered as a 3 or 4 year degree. Students earn a BA in Indigenous Studies which can be a stand-alone degree or paired with a complementary major in any field, such as Indigenous Studies and Environmental Studies; Indigenous Studies and Politics; or Indigenous Studies and Urban and Inner City Studies. A diploma option is also available in partnership with Red River College.

  • Community-Based Aboriginal Teacher Education Program (CATEP) CATEP is a partnership between The University of Winnipeg and Seven Oaks and Winnipeg School Divisions. The program provides Aboriginal teaching assistants with the opportunity to attain a university degree part-time and become certified teachers, while continuing to work within the school system.

  • Bachelor of Education ACCESS Program (BA/BEd) provides an opportunity for students from Winnipeg’s inner city with non-traditional academic backgrounds to become teachers. Half the enrolment is reserved for Aboriginal students. Academic supports, counselling services, cultural teachings, and a warm supportive environment are part of the 5 year integrated program.

  • Urban and Inner-City Studies Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Certificate Program is a new, interdisciplinary major that examines the city, and particularly the inner city, as a dynamic environment. The program combines a traditional urban studies focus with a strong community development orientation, and includes courses such as women and the inner city, the urban Aboriginal experience, and immigrants and refugees.

  • Bachelor of Theology (BTh) – partnership with the Sandy-Saulteaux Spiritual Centre to provide theological education to Aboriginal people through the educational resources of the Dr.Jessie Saulteaux Resource Centre, combined with the resources of the the University. An advisory committee including staff members from both the Faculty of Theology and the Centre manage the program.

  • Indigenous Spiritual and Pastoral Care Diploma is a two year post secondary program offered through the Faculty of Theology. It is accredited professional preparation for Indigenous Spiritual and Pastoral Care-giving in Manitoba. The intent is to provide training for Indigenous people by Indigenous instructors, and graduates will have specialized training to provide spiritual care for Indigenous people throughout Manitoba.

  • Bachelor of Science in Science (BSc), Environment and Indigenous Knowledge is a 3 or 4 year BSc combining western scientific methodologies with environmental science from an Indigenous perspective, including field experience and participation by Elders. Courses developed by our partner, the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER), as well as appropriate co-op placements, provide a critical link between Western science and Indigenous worldviews. (In development.)

UWinnipeg’s Professional, Applied and Continuing Education programs

UWinnipeg Student UWinnipeg Graduate
Betsy Mousseau

  • The Indigenous Police Preparation Program is the only one of its kind in Manitoba. It prepares First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students to be successful in meeting the admission requirements of police forces across Manitoba. This full-time, eight month program equips graduates with transferable skills, opening up opportunities in a variety of fields including national, regional, municipal and tribal police forces, Corrections and Justice departments.

  • Industry Workplace Skills Diploma (IWSD) incorporates the necessary business skills, technical skills and essential skills for individuals from First Nation communities to accept job opportunities in the manufacturing sector. This exciting pilot project was launched in September, 2011 in partnership with Workplace Education Manitoba and Winnipeg Technical College. At the conclusion of the eight month program, graduates will receive immediate job offers from a consortium of manufacturers seeking to increase Aboriginal representation in their workplaces and address the growing gap in their hiring pool. Initiated under the Connecting Aboriginals to Manufacturing (CAM) banner, a diverse steering committee incorporating representation from all stakeholders will continue to develop the concept for application to other industries. Additional intakes of this program will take place in 2012 and 2013.

  • Indigenous ProgramsUWinnipeg Graduate Grace Redhead

    Introduction to University: This course is intended for prospective and newly-admitted students wishing to prepare for university level studies. This course provides practical strategies for reading, note-taking and studying effectively. Participants gain an understanding of the key elements involved in the writing process, critical thinking, listening, learning styles, memory, and time management. A writing component is included which provides students with hands-on experience creating thesis statements, doing library research, and writing a research paper. Transfer Credit: The Introduction to University course is eligible for transfer credit toward a University of Winnipeg degree if a minimum grade of C+ is achieved.