Bachelor of Arts in First Nations and Indigenous Studies

Gain an understanding of the histories, contemporary realities, and political concerns of Indigenous peoples in Canada and beyond. This interdisciplinary program reflects the belief that deep understanding and ethical engagement are central to the well-being of resurgent Indigenous communities and foundational to more respectful Indigenous-settler relations.

First Nations and Indigenous Studies is an interdisciplinary program, open to all undergraduate students. You will enrol in a set of core courses that focus on topics and approaches central to First Nations communities, as well as select from a list of relevant courses in other departments.
Fourth-year First Nations and Indigenous Studies students complete a 6-credit research practicum in partnership with an Aboriginal organization. The practicum provides valuable experience in designing, negotiating, and implementing research projects that respond to community needs.
You can select Major or Minor concentrations, as well as Double Major or Major-Minor options that complement your other interests.
Your future
As a student in the interdisciplinary FNIS program, you will gain a comprehensive education in Indigenous political theory and politics, aesthetics, literature, and contemporary social concerns, as well as in relevant topics from other departments. With this solid foundation, career opportunities include such varied vocations as cultural resource manager, youth worker, media consultant, student/academic advisor, museum curator, community support worker, and more. Graduates of the FNIS program have been successful in gaining admission to competitive graduate programs throughout North America and abroad.

Graduation from a university-preparatory program at a senior secondary school: Higher Secondary School Certificate awarded on completion of Standard XII. Certificates must be official. Photocopies are acceptable if certified by school principal, head, or counsellor. Notarized copies are not acceptable.

English Language Admission Standard: Canadian Academic English Language assessment - Overall 70; Cambridge English Qualifications – 180; UBC Certificate in English – 600; International English Language Testing System (Academic) - 6.5, with no part less than 6.0; Pearson Test of English (Academic) - Overall: 65, Reading: 60, Listening: 60, Writing: 60, Speaking: 60; Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based test - Overall: 90, Reading: 22, Listening: 22, Writing: 21, Speaking: 21.