Indigenous Studies University of Winnipeg

Overview

The Department of Indigenous Studies is grounded in the intellectual and cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples in Canada (including First Nations, Non-Status, Inuit, and Métis) and around the globe. Students from all backgrounds and disciplines explore the unique complexities and broad, diverse cultures associated with Indigenous studies.

This Indigenous Studies programme at  University of Winnipeg leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree (3-year, 4-year or Honours) with a Major in Indigenous Studies. Students taking an undergraduate degree in another Major may choose to add a Minor in Indigenous Studies as a secondary area of interest.  

The department also offers a Joint Indigenous Studies/Self-Government Administration degree/diploma with Red River College, as well as a Master of Arts in Indigenous Governance – see separate fact sheets for these two programmes. Employees of Red River College who are interested in the special RRC Cohort Stream to earn a BA in Indigenous Studies from UWinnipeg should consult RRC Human Relations for guidance and funding.

Sample Courses

Indigenous Ways of Knowing - This course offers an introduction to Indigenous ways of knowing through active participation in strategies that facilitate the production of Aboriginal knowledge and through comparisons with Euro-American ways of knowing. By taking part in basic ceremony and related practices, students gain an understanding of how First Peoples of Manitoba relate to each other, to the land, to other animals, and to the world. 

Management and Financial Administration for Community Leadership - As small-scale and not-forprofit structures, community-based and Aboriginal organizations often face unique challenges and political/cultural realities in terms of overall management and operations. This course provides students with a good understanding of the key facets of management and administrative structures within the community and Aboriginal sectors in particular. 

International Rights of Indigenous Peoples - This course examines current developments at the international level with respect to the rights of Indigenous peoples, particularly the right to self-determination.