Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience
Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science program in ...
Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies
Brantford
INTAKE: Jan, May & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies program at Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) offers students a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, languages, and contemporary issues. This interdisciplinary program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically engage with Indigenous perspectives, promote reconciliation, and advocate for Indigenous rights and sovereignty.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies at WLU covers a wide range of topics, including Indigenous knowledge systems, colonialism and its impacts, Indigenous languages, land and resource rights, cultural revitalization, and contemporary Indigenous politics and activism. Courses are designed to provide students with a holistic understanding of Indigenous experiences and perspectives, drawing on diverse disciplinary approaches such as history, anthropology, sociology, political science, and environmental studies.
Research Focus: Wilfrid Laurier University is committed to advancing research in the field of Indigenous Studies. Faculty members are actively engaged in research projects that explore various aspects of Indigenous cultures, histories, languages, and contemporary issues. Research topics may include Indigenous governance, environmental justice, language revitalization, Indigenous health, and social movements. Students have the opportunity to participate in research initiatives, collaborate with faculty mentors, and contribute to Indigenous scholarship through independent studies, honors theses, or community-based research projects.
Industry Engagement: WLU recognizes the importance of industry engagement in preparing students for careers related to Indigenous issues and reconciliation. Through its co-operative education program and community partnerships, students have the opportunity to gain practical work experience with Indigenous organizations, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and Indigenous-owned businesses. Co-op placements provide students with valuable hands-on experience, professional networking opportunities, and exposure to diverse career paths in the field of Indigenous Studies.
Global Perspective: The Bachelor of Arts program in Indigenous Studies at Wilfrid Laurier University emphasizes a global perspective on Indigenous issues and experiences. Courses explore Indigenous peoples' experiences in Canada and around the world, as well as their connections to broader Indigenous movements and struggles for self-determination and rights. The program encourages students to critically examine colonial legacies, engage with Indigenous knowledge systems, and understand Indigenous perspectives on global issues such as environmental justice, human rights, and Indigenous rights.
Location
Brantford
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 32251
Application fee: CAD$ 80 + Applying through OUAC 105F Portal charges CAD$ 156 + International Charges CAD$ 10
Academic Requirements: International undergraduate applicants are typically required to have a minimum academic average of 70% or its equivalent in their secondary school studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 83 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- PTE: A minimum score of 59 on the Pearson Test of English.
- DET: A minimum score of 120 on the Duolingo English Test.
Wilfrid Laurier University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
International Student Entrance Scholarships: Wilfrid Laurier University offers several entrance scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. The value of these scholarships varies, with some covering a significant portion of tuition fees.
President's Gold Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional incoming international undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and community involvement. Recipients of this scholarship receive a renewable award that covers a significant portion of their tuition fees.
International Student Scholarship: The International Student Scholarship is awarded to international undergraduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence and are entering their first year of study at Wilfrid Laurier University. The scholarship amount varies based on the student's academic achievements.
In-Course Scholarships: Wilfrid Laurier University also offers in-course scholarships for international students who have completed at least one year of study at the university. These scholarships are based on academic performance and may be awarded to students who have achieved a certain GPA or have excelled in specific areas of study.
Faculty-specific Scholarships: Some faculties and departments within Wilfrid Laurier University may offer scholarships and awards specific to their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be available to international students based on academic performance, leadership, or other criteria determined by the faculty or department.
External Scholarships and Partnerships: In addition to the university-specific scholarships, international students at Wilfrid Laurier University can also explore external scholarships and funding opportunities. The university has partnerships with various organizations and agencies that offer scholarships to international students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
It is important to note that scholarship eligibility and application processes may vary, and some scholarships may have specific requirements or deadlines.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) opens up diverse career opportunities in various sectors.
Indigenous Community Development Coordinator: Graduates can work as community development coordinators, collaborating with Indigenous communities to identify needs, develop programs, and advocate for resources. They may work for Indigenous organizations, non-profit agencies, or government departments, facilitating community engagement, organizing cultural events, and implementing initiatives to promote economic development, health, and well-being.
Cultural Liaison Officer: Graduates can work as cultural liaison officers, bridging the gap between Indigenous communities and government agencies, educational institutions, or corporate entities. They may facilitate cultural competency training, provide consultation on Indigenous issues, and ensure that policies and programs respect Indigenous rights, traditions, and protocols.
Indigenous Education Specialist: Graduates can work in the field of Indigenous education, promoting Indigenous knowledge, languages, and perspectives within educational institutions. They may work as curriculum developers, cultural resource specialists, or Indigenous student support workers, advocating for culturally relevant education, implementing Indigenous curriculum, and supporting Indigenous students' academic success.
Indigenous Rights Advocate: Graduates can work as Indigenous rights advocates, supporting Indigenous communities in their struggles for land rights, treaty rights, and self-determination. They may work for Indigenous advocacy organizations, legal clinics, or human rights groups, conducting research, raising awareness, and lobbying governments and international organizations to respect Indigenous rights and sovereignty.
Indigenous Health Worker: Graduates can work in the field of Indigenous health, promoting culturally appropriate health care services and addressing health disparities faced by Indigenous communities. They may work as health educators, community health workers, or health policy analysts, collaborating with health care providers, advocating for culturally safe practices, and developing health promotion programs.
Indigenous Cultural Heritage Specialist: Graduates can work as cultural heritage specialists, preserving and promoting Indigenous cultural heritage and traditions. They may work for museums, cultural centers, or heritage organizations, curating exhibits, conducting research, and engaging with Indigenous communities to document and revitalize cultural practices, languages, and arts.
Indigenous Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, researching Indigenous issues, analyzing legislation, and developing policy recommendations to address the needs and priorities of Indigenous communities. They may work for government departments, Indigenous organizations, or think tanks, advocating for policy changes that advance Indigenous rights, social justice, and reconciliation.
Indigenous Entrepreneur: Graduates can become Indigenous entrepreneurs, starting their own businesses or social enterprises that contribute to Indigenous economic development and self-sustainability. They may establish businesses in sectors such as tourism, arts and crafts, eco-tourism, renewable energy, or Indigenous cultural services, creating employment opportunities and supporting community development initiatives.
