First Nations Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in First Nations Studies at the University of Northern British Columbia offers you a profound exploration into the diverse languages, laws, cultures, histories, and governmental structures of Indigenous peoples across Canada. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students passionate about understanding Indigenous perspectives and contributing to processes of decolonization and community empowerment. You will gain a comprehensive academic grounding in critical issues affecting First Nations communities, particularly in northern British Columbia, preparing you for impactful work in fields that value cultural understanding and reconciliation.

This full-time, on-campus program is studied over four years, providing you with a rich, multi-disciplinary learning experience. You will engage with core subjects such as research methods in First Nations Studies and have opportunities to deepen your knowledge through language courses, cultural studies, and an invaluable internship in First Nations Studies during your final year. You will graduate with the analytical skills and cultural competency necessary to pursue rewarding careers in community service, law, education, health care, policy development, or further graduate studies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of First Nations Studies, beginning with foundational courses on Aboriginal peoples and perspectives in Canada. Students can delve into various First Nations languages and cultures, including Dakelh/Carrier, Haisla, Ts'msyen, and Nisga'a. Upper-division requirements focus on research methods and practical internship experiences, complemented by a wide array of ancillary courses in fields such as anthropology, Indigenous literature, history, and health.

1 Lower-Division Requirements

The Aboriginal Peoples of Canada
Perspectives in First Nations Studies
A First Nations Language: Level 1
A First Nations Language: Level 2
Dakelh / Carrier Language: Level 1
Dakelh / Carrier Language: Level 2
Haisla Language (X̄a'islak̓ala): Level 1
Haisla Language (X̄a'islak̓ala): Level 2
Ts'msyen Language (Sm'algyax): Level 1
Ts'msyen Language (Sm'algyax): Level 2
Nisga'a Language: Level 1
Nisga'a Language: Level 2
A First Nations Culture: Level 1
A First Nations Culture: Level 2
Dakelh / Carrier Culture: Level 1
Nisga'a Culture: Level 1
Nisga'a Culture: Level 2

2 Upper-Division Requirements

Research Methods in First Nations Studies
Internship in First Nations Studies

3 Approved Ancillary Courses for a Major in First Nations Studies

Ethnography in Northern British Columbia
Comparative Study of Indigenous Peoples of the World
British Columbia Ethnography
British Columbia Archaeology
Ethnobotany
Indigenous Literature in Canada and the United States
Special Topics in Indigenous Literature
Indigenous Geographies of Climate Resilience
Health and Chronic Disease Management
Global History of indigenous People
British Columbia
History of Indigenous People of Canada
Topics in Cultural Encounters
Aboriginal Perspectives on Land and Resource Management
Introduction to First Nations Health
Indigenous Health and Nursing
Special Topics in Nursing
Russian Politics and Society
Indigenous Governance and Social Policy
Indigenous Wellness: Individuals, Families, and Communities
Individual and Community Wellness for Indigenous Peoples
Indigenous Women: Perspectives
Topics in Aboriginal Women's Studies

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 78,169.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 530.00 - USD 1,716.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,634.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 521.00 - USD 694.00
Utilities & Bills USD 867.00 - USD 1,301.00
Estimated Total USD 7,022.00 - USD 8,063.00

Living cost estimates are based on Prince George Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingArchitecture & Urban PlanningCorporate Finance & TreasuryEdTech & E-LearningIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthReal Estate DevelopmentTransport Engineering & InfrastructureUrban Mobility & Smart Transport

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BC Public Service

Carrier Sekani Family Services

City of Prince George

College of New Caledonia

Government of ALberta

Government of Canada

The University of British Columbia

University of Northern British Columbia

Why Study First Nations Studies at University of Northern British Columbia

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Northern British Columbia in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about First Nations Studies at University of Northern British Columbia

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during the term, with unlimited hours during breaks. They can also work unlimited hours on campus without a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency can be demonstrated through various tests such as Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, with specific score requirements for each. For example, Duolingo requires a minimum overall score of 105.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include community service coordinator, legal assistant, cultural educator, and policy analyst.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program explores the languages, cultures, and histories of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It prepares students for careers in community service, law, and cultural studies while promoting decolonization.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the First Nations Studies program is September.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️