Skip to main content - Skip to contact information

First Nations Programs

More than 1,000 Aboriginal students are enrolled in a wide variety of programs at VIU. While many courses in different programs include some Aboriginal content, the following programs have a distinct First Nations focus.

Bachelor of Arts, Major/Minor in First Nations Studies

Exploration of contemporary First Nations issues in an integrated, multi-disciplinary manner that prepares students for living within First Nations societies and the larger world, and focuses on the physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual well-being of each student.

  • 4-year Degree program taken as a major, or as a minor in combination with another minor.

Arts One—First Nations

Multi-disciplinary learning community and introduction to First Nations Studies.

Child and Youth Care First Nations

Provides theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to work across a variety of practice settings that provide support to Aboriginal children, youths and their families. Ladders into Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care Degree program.

UBC Native Indian Teacher Education Program (NITEP)

To prepare for teaching positions in B.C. elementary and secondary schools. Offered in partnership with the University of British Columbia.

Forestry Bridging Program

First two years towards Forestry degree offered at the University of British Columbia.

Aboriginal University Bridging Program

Provides Aboriginal adult learners with access to knowledge, tools, and skills to successfully enter University.

Aboriginal Sports Management

Learn how to plan, implement, and manage Indigenous sport and recreation/tourism opportunities.

Shq’apthut – A Gathering Place
Services for Aboriginal Students Centre

viu.ca/sas

Shq’apthut – A Gathering Place on the Nanaimo campus is staffed by a Services for Aboriginal Students team that supports Aboriginal students to succeed in achieving their academic goals.

Shq’apthut Hours

Monday to Thursday, 8 am to 9 pm
Friday, 8 am to 4 pm

Hours for Services for Aboriginal Students

Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm

Services

  • Listen and provide support to students with academic or personal concerns.
  • Provide information on, or referrals to, the following:
    • community services
    • personal counselling
    • substance abuse counselling
    • career planning
    • employment information
  • Assist new students with applications, registration and timetabling.
  • Provide information about Aboriginal bursaries, scholarships, student loans, and funding for Status, non-Status and Métis students.
  • Assist out-of-town students to find accommodation and day-care.
  • Promote cultural, recreational, and social activities in partnership with Aboriginal students and the Aboriginal Student Union Representative.
  • Liaise with Bands, Tribal Councils, Aboriginal Organizations, students, faculty, and Elders.

For More Information

Nanaimo Campus
Bldg. 170
Tel: 250-740-6510
Fax: 250-740-6385
Toll Free: 1-888-920-2221 local 6510
E-mail: sas@viu.ca
Website: www.viu.ca/sas/

Phone, email, or drop by Shq'apthut to make an appointment.

Elders

Resident elders are an integral part of the Vancouver Island University community on the Nanaimo and Duncan campuses. They work closely with the Arts One—First Nations program, B.A. First Nations Studies, and Child and Youth Care First Nations Diploma program. They participate in all aspects of the academic community and offer support to faculty, staff and, most importantly, to students.

Regional campuses

Services for Aboriginal students are also available at the Cowichan and Powell River campuses. For information, please call

  • in Duncan: 250-746-3535
  • in Powell River: (604) 485-2878

Updated July 11, 2011