Bachelor of Arts in First Nations Study

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS for International Students:

Application Fees: CAD $ 125

Academic Requirements: International students should have a minimum average of 65% or equivalent in their high school or secondary school studies. This average is calculated based on the applicant's best six academic courses.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 90 on the internet-based test (iBT).
• PTE: A minimum score of 65 on the Pearson Test of English.
• DET: A minimum score of 105 on the Duolingo English Test.

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community. 

International Excellence Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students entering their first year of study at UNBC. The scholarship values range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the academic achievements of the students.

International Major Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students entering undergraduate programs in specific disciplines, such as Business Administration, Environmental Science, Computer Science, and more. The scholarship amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000 per year.

External Scholarships: UNBC also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. The university provides resources and information about external scholarships that international students can apply for, including government scholarships, private foundations, and international organizations.

International Student Work Study Program: UNBC offers an International Student Work Study Program that provides on-campus employment opportunities for international students. This program allows students to gain work experience while studying and earn income to support their education.

Donor-Funded Scholarships: UNBC has a range of donor-funded scholarships that are available to both domestic and international students. These scholarships are supported by generous contributions from individuals, organizations, and businesses who value education and want to support students in their academic journey.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year. Applying for scholarships at UNBC usually requires a separate application process, and some scholarships may require additional documentation, such as letters of recommendation or personal statements. International students are encouraged to carefully review the scholarship requirements and deadlines to ensure a successful application.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in First Nations Studies program at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities that involve working with Indigenous communities, organizations, governments, and industries. 

Indigenous Community Liaison: Indigenous community liaisons work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies to facilitate communication and collaboration with Indigenous communities. They help develop policies, programs, and projects that respect Indigenous rights, traditions, and perspectives, and ensure meaningful engagement and consultation with community members.

Cultural Coordinator: Cultural coordinators work for cultural centers, museums, educational institutions, and Indigenous organizations to preserve and promote Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions. They organize cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions, facilitate cultural exchanges, and support initiatives aimed at revitalizing Indigenous languages and knowledge systems.

Indigenous Rights Advocate: Indigenous rights advocates work for advocacy groups, legal organizations, and human rights agencies to promote Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and self-determination. They engage in legal research, advocacy campaigns, and community organizing efforts to address systemic injustices, advocate for policy reforms, and support Indigenous-led initiatives for social and environmental justice.

Policy Analyst: Policy analysts work for government agencies, research institutes, and advocacy organizations to analyze policies, legislation, and regulations related to Indigenous issues, land rights, and governance. They conduct research, provide policy recommendations, and engage with stakeholders to advocate for policies that advance Indigenous rights, address historical injustices, and promote reconciliation.

Indigenous Education Coordinator: Indigenous education coordinators work in schools, universities, and community organizations to develop and implement culturally relevant and responsive educational programs and initiatives. They collaborate with Indigenous elders, knowledge keepers, and community members to integrate Indigenous perspectives, histories, and teachings into curricula, promote Indigenous language and cultural revitalization, and support the academic success and well-being of Indigenous students.

Treaty Negotiator: Treaty negotiators work for Indigenous governments, tribal councils, and treaty commissions to negotiate land claims, self-government agreements, and resource-sharing agreements with federal and provincial governments. They represent Indigenous communities in negotiations, conduct research, analyze legal documents, and advocate for the recognition and implementation of Indigenous rights and title.

Environmental Resource Manager: Environmental resource managers work for Indigenous governments, resource companies, and environmental consulting firms to manage natural resources in a sustainable and culturally sensitive manner. They develop resource management plans, conduct environmental assessments, and engage with Indigenous communities to ensure that resource development projects respect traditional territories, protect ecosystems, and uphold Indigenous rights.

Indigenous Entrepreneur: Indigenous entrepreneurs establish and operate businesses that contribute to economic development, job creation, and community empowerment in Indigenous communities. They may start businesses in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, arts and crafts, renewable energy, and cultural heritage preservation, using traditional knowledge and values to guide their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Indigenous Health Coordinator: Indigenous health coordinators work in healthcare organizations, public health agencies, and community health centers to address the unique health needs and challenges faced by Indigenous communities. They develop and implement culturally appropriate health programs, advocate for healthcare equity, and collaborate with Indigenous healers, elders, and traditional practitioners to promote holistic health and wellness.

Researcher/Scholar: Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in First Nations Studies program may pursue careers as researchers, scholars, or educators in academic institutions, research institutes, or think tanks. They conduct research on Indigenous issues, publish scholarly articles and books, and teach courses related to Indigenous studies, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and understanding of Indigenous peoples, cultures, and histories.