Frequently Asked Questions

Below, you'll find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that isn't answered below, please email us at nativestudies@ualberta.ca.

What is Native Studies?

Native Studies is an exciting, emerging area of study that seeks to understand the experiences and lives of Indigenous people and communities, past, present, and into the future. It also studies how Indigenous communities and the countries in which they live influence and define each other. 

Native Studies combines many university disciplines, such as anthropology, history, law, science and sociology, and combines them with Indigenous knowledge systems and perspectives. Through understanding Indigenous peoples locally, nationally and globally, Native Studies aims to build bridges that will help create better communities.

Why should I study Native Studies at the University of Alberta?

At the Faculty of Native Studies, we provide a common ground for all students — regardless of ethnic background — to learn, research, explore and critically examine the historical and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples and communities. Our small class sizes allow us to be student-centred, while our internationally recognized interdisciplinary research puts us at the forefront of Indigenous studies both in Canada and in the world.

How will I benefit from taking a course in Native Studies?

In Canada, First Nation, Inuit and Métis people make up approximately 1.8 million, or 5 per cent of the total population. About 61 per cent of the population lives in urban areas, and it's one of the fastest-growing populations in Canada.

Chances are, your daily life intersects with the life of an Indigenous person.

Canadians' lives are also deeply intertwined with Indigenous interests such as oil and gas, natural resources extraction, land, water, health, history, treaties, identity and community wellbeing. Being aware of the ways in which we are all connected means you will be better equipped to understand the complexity of Canada and function as an enlightened citizen.

You will also be more likely to succeed in whatever career you choose if you understand perspectives, values and needs of your Indigenous clients, customers, suppliers, patients or partners.

Can I get a degree in Native Studies?

Yes! You can receive a:

We also offer two undergraduate certificate programs:

Will a Native Studies degree get me a job?

The most recent employment survey of UAlberta graduates indicates that Native Studies students are in demand across the workforce. 100 per cent of those surveyed report finding employment within three years of graduating.

Graduates are prepared for many careers in education, fine arts, government and law, history/research, government and non-profit organizations. 

What introductory Native Studies courses should I take?

NS 110, NS 111 and NS 290 are prerequisites for most Native Studies courses. NS 152 is the introductory Cree language course needed if you are a Native Studies major. NS 200 is a survey course of topics in Native Studies aimed at students outside the Faculty (not available to NS majors). All of these courses offer students a window into the world of Native Studies.

What other courses in Native Studies are available at a higher level?

Because of the interdisciplinary nature of Native Studies, we offer courses across a wide range of topics that include oral traditions, urban Indigenous identities, law, treaty, land claims, health, Indigenous art, negotiation strategies, management issues, research methods, the Cree language and more.

Are there any Elders involved in Native Studies?

Elders are involved on a regular basis with the Faculty of Native Studies. Elders sit on our Faculty Council and participate in most activities organized throughout the academic year, including guest lectures, conferences, special events and gatherings such as our semi-annual Tea & Bannock.

What is the history of the Faculty of Native Studies?

Establishing an academic unit focusing on Native Studies had been discussed within the University of Alberta since 1972, when such a unit was proposed in a University Senate Committee meeting by representatives of the Indian Association of Alberta.

Standing Committee Created

In 1978, 20 recommendations were made to the University Senate by its task force regarding improved service to Native people and a more coherent involvement in Native Studies. In that year, the University of Alberta GFC established a Standing Committee on Native Studies consisting of University of Alberta faculty members and students and representatives of the Native community at large.

After several years of research, discussion, and consultation with interested individuals and groups from inside and outside the University, the Committee on Native Studies opted for an ambitious program of Native Studies.

Establishment of the School

The Committee on Native Studies proposed the establishment of a School of Native Studies that would be multidisciplinary in character, instead of a small department that would confine itself to Native history, language and culture.

The School would offer a wide range of courses leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree in Native Studies, as well as minor concentrations for students in other Faculties. Faculty members and students would engage in research with special attention to language and land use. Though not parochial in its outlook on Native Studies, the Faculty would pay particular attention to Native peoples -Indian, Inuit, and Métis of the Canadian West and North.

Bachelor of Arts established

The establishment of a School of Native Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies was approved by GFC and the Board of Governors of the University in Spring 1984. In the same year, the Universities Coordinating Council also approved the School and the degree. In 1988, the GFC and the Government of Alberta approved a program of study leading to the Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies.

With the growth in student and faculty numbers and the expansion of teaching and research came the change from School to Faculty of Native Studies in June, 2006.