Indigenous Land Stewardship University of British Columbia

Overview

The Indigenous Land Stewardship programme at the University of British Columbia provides a comprehensive education in sustainable resource management and cultural resurgence. This interdisciplinary degree is designed for both Indigenous students and allies who wish to support land healing and action-oriented reconciliation. Students engage with diverse knowledge systems to address community capacity and climate resiliency.

Why Indigenous Land Stewardship at University of British Columbia?

The University of British Columbia offers a unique learning environment situated within the traditional territory of the Musqueam people. Students benefit from the award-winning Forest Sciences Centre, which features high-tech labs and nature-inspired study spaces. The faculty also manages over 25,000 hectares of research forests across British Columbia for hands-on training.

Instruction is led by Indigenous scholars, Elders, and knowledge keepers, ensuring a culturally appropriate and relational approach to education. The curriculum integrates multi-disciplinary perspectives, including law, governance, and ecology. This land-based system fosters a deep connection to the environment while honouring the experiences of Indigenous Peoples.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 56145 per year
• National fee: CAD 6687 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum utilizes a land-based approach with significant field components. Modules may include:

• Indigenous Ways of Knowing
• Ecology
• Law and Governance
• Economics
• Communication
• Business Management
• Research and Data Management Methods
• Community Capacity Building

Careers with Indigenous Land Stewardship

Graduates are prepared for professional roles within government agencies, the resource sector, and private consulting firms. The programme equips students to work as policy advisors, public administrators, or resource experts who can bridge Indigenous and Western knowledge systems. Many find opportunities with environmental non-governmental organisations (ENGOs) focused on holistic management.

The training emphasizes sustainable natural resource management, making graduates valuable assets to Nations and organisations involved in land stewardship. By focusing on community sustainability, the degree opens pathways into leadership roles dedicated to environmental and cultural revitalization.