PhD in Indigenous Studies

Program Overview

The PhD in Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba offers advanced training in research, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, Indigenous scholarship, and ethical community engagement. Students complete coursework, including Indigenous language study, and prepare a thesis, exploring topics such as Métis studies, Indigenous economies, and northern Indigenous issues. The program fosters a supportive learning environment with experienced faculty dedicated to guiding students in their research endeavors.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The PhD in Indigenous Studies program at the University of Manitoba is designed to provide students with a higher degree of specialization and advanced training in research. The program reflects interdisciplinary approaches to research and scholarship that have been developed by Indigenous Studies over the years in its curriculum overall. These include an emphasis on Indigenous scholarship, Indigenous epistemologies, a strong ethical commitment to Indigenous rural and urban communities, and a high regard for peer review processes.

Outline:

Content:

• Coursework: Students are required to complete 12 credit hours of coursework at the 7000 level, including:
• INDG 7230 Methodology and Research Issues in Indigenous Studies (3 Ch)
• INDG 7280 Indigenous Studies Colloquia (3 Ch)
• Plus: 6 credit hours in an Indigenous language if this requirement has not already been satisfied
• Thesis: Students must prepare and successfully defend a thesis.

Structure:

• The program consists of a combination of coursework and a substantial thesis component.
• Students are required to complete a residence requirement of at least one academic year devoted to full-time study at the University of Manitoba.
• Students must pass a candidacy exam.

Individual Modules:

• Métis studies: The department has three Métis scholars, and several students have focused on historic and contemporary Métis issues, literatures, art, and politics.
• Cultural-specific Indigenous areas: Six scholars in the department offer examinations and explorations in various aspects of Inuit studies, Cree studies, Ojibway studies, and Inuit studies.
• Indigenous economies and political organizations: Two scholars focus specifically on Indigenous businesses and political organizations in their research areas.
• Indigenous languages: Regular courses are offered in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut.
• Indigenous aesthetics: Three scholars in the department focus on Indigenous creative and critical expressions found in literature, art, film, beadwork, and performance art.
• Northern Indigenous issues: The department has created innovative opportunities for work in remote northern communities, with two scholars who have studied various aspects of culture, politics, entrepreneurship, and history in a northern context.

Assessment:

Methods:

• Coursework
• Thesis
• Candidacy exam

Criteria:

• Academic performance
• Research skills
• Writing ability
• Oral presentation skills

Teaching:

Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Fieldwork
• Independent study

Faculty:

• The department has a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members who are actively engaged in research and teaching in Indigenous Studies.
• Faculty members are committed to providing students with a supportive and challenging learning environment.

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to research and scholarship.
• The program has a strong focus on Indigenous scholarship and Indigenous epistemologies.
• The program is committed to ethical research practices and community engagement.