The University of Northern B.C. (UNBC) is offering new First Nations programs this fall.
The program is joint between Terrace and Quesnel campuses, and offers a four year Bachelor of Arts in First Nations Studies, or a one-year certificate in First Nations Studies.
Dr. Phil Burton, northwest campus Regional Chair, says part of the university goal in developing this program is growing scholarship and research capacity to address the concerns of First Nations in northern B.C.
“With the richness of First Nations cultures across the northern BC region, it is imperative that we better serve and empower those communities,” he said.
The courses offered in the program focus on First Nations culture and emphasize skills needed to deal with Aboriginal contemporary issues, government relations, communication, problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork, information management, and personal management.
UNBC President Dr. Daniel Weeks said in a news release that the program is also to raise up leaders.
“Students enrolled in First Nations Studies programming gain the knowledge they need to become leaders in their communities,” he said.
Courses offered at the Terrace campus this year are about learning strategies, Canadian native literature, and Tsimshian culture. Offered by video conference from Quesnel is Introduction to First Nations of Canada and a course about research writing.
Graduates from the program are well qualified to work in fields such as band and tribal council administration, traditional use researcher, cultural affairs officer, or multiculturalism educator.
Burton says interested students need to apply as soon as possible for the program.
