Empowering Indigenous Voices: Algonquin College Introduces  two new Indigenous Studies programs 

Posted on Monday, March 31st, 2025

Diploma and certificate options respond to market demand for employees with Indigenous knowledge

March 31, 2025, Ottawa, ON – Claude Brulé, Algonquin College President and CEO, announced today that registration is now open for learners to apply for the Indigenous Studies diploma and certificate programs for the September 2025 fall academic session.

“Our Indigenous Studies diploma and certificate programs are not only a continuation of Algonquin College’s commitment to reconciliation, but a commitment to develop a better understanding and appreciation of Indigenous Peoples and the issues faced by First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples,” said Brulé. “Launching in Fall 2025, this program for Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners is a comprehensive opportunity for those wishing to find employment in public, private, non-profit and government sectors that engages with Indigenous communities or within Indigenous community organizations and businesses.”

As the only diploma program of its kind in Ontario, the two program offerings present a breadth and depth of knowledge that meets the current workplace demand to educate learners, so they can join the workforce and contribute collaboratively and effectively on reconciliation issues today.

“Our Indigenous professors and curriculum development team have worked closely with Inuit, Metis and First Nations communities to create programs that incorporate transferable personal, and professional skills that are in-demand in a wide range of sectors.” said Heather Ryall, Dean, Faculty of Arts, Media and Design. “The programs incorporate Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being in the disciplines of education, law, healthcare, culture and language.”

Learners have the option to complete their first year of the program to earn an Indigenous Studies Foundations certificate or to continue into the second year to obtain an Indigenous Studies diploma. Additionally, learners may choose to further their studies in a discipline-specific academic program and qualify to receive two transfer credits for courses taken within the Indigenous Studies program.

Employment Opportunities

Graduates of the Indigenous Studies diploma program may find employment in social services/advocacy, policy and governance, education, outreach, community development, international development, cultural liaison, administration/management and creative industries/business.​

Information about the program is currently available on the College website and applications are currently being accepted.  

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About Algonquin College:  

The mission of Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology is to transform hopes and dreams into lifelong success. Algonquin College, an Ontario public sector community college, does this by offering hands-on, digitally connected, experiential learning in more than 250 programs. Algonquin College is the largest polytechnic institute in Eastern Ontario, with campuses in Ottawa, Perth, Pembroke and AC Online.  

For more Information: 

Sara-Lynne Levine 
Communications Officer 
levines2@algonquincollege.com 
613-614-1769 


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