Program Overview

Introduction to the Indigenous Governance and Politics Certificate Program

The Certificate in Indigenous Governance and Politics is designed for students interested in developing a deeper understanding of Indigenous political relationships. This program cultivates an understanding and appreciation of the unique socio-political position of Indigenous peoples in Canada, relating to historical and contemporary issues in governance and politics.

Program Overview

• The certificate program is offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science.
• It is a two-year certificate that can be taken full-time or part-time.
• Students can enter this program directly from high school or begin it off-campus.
• The program allows students to study various levels of government affecting Indigenous groups and ongoing relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.

What You Will Learn

You will examine the Federal system of government and its effects on Indigenous identity, community programs, and local autonomy. The program provides specialized knowledge about Indigenous governance and political issues in and beyond Canada.

Featured Classes

• POLS 221: Global Indigenous Politics: Explores what it means to be Indigenous, comparing Indigenous politics in the Global North and Global South, and examining key political issues.
• POLS 222.3: Indigenous Governance and Politics: Analyzes existing and emerging systems of Indigenous governance and politics at local, regional, provincial, and national levels in Canada.
• POLS 422.3: First Nations Governance: Examines First Nations governance strategies in Canada, focusing on cultural, economic, and political development within First Nations communities.

Careers

The Certificate in Indigenous Governance and Politics prepares students for careers in:

• Political and leadership roles in their community
• Management and administration within their own community
• Policy evaluation and development
• Leadership and organizational roles in local, provincial, and national government
• Social justice and equity work in non-governmental organizations

Tuition Estimates

Program Options

• The certificate can be earned on its own, concurrently with a degree, or after having already received a degree.
• International students are recommended to enroll in the certificate program alongside a degree to maintain eligibility for a study permit.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements depend on the student's situation, including their educational background and where they attended high school.

Application Deadlines

Start term and application deadlines vary:

• Winter: December 1 for Canadian students, September 1 for international students
• Spring: April 1 for Canadian students, February 1 for international students
• Summer: May 1 for Canadian students, March 1 for international students
• Fall: July 15 for Canadian students, May 1 for international students

Related Programs

• Ethics, Justice and Law
• Indigenous Studies
• Kanawayihetaytan Askiy
• Political Studies