PhD Indigenous Studies

Become part of an international movement to decolonize academic institutions and recognize the centrality of Indigenous Knowledges as foundations for contemporary Indigenous life. 

The first Indigenous Studies Ph.D. program in Canada, this program ensures that the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of Indigenous Knowledges are articulated, discussed, documented, recognized and respected within the overall program field of Indigenous Knowledges: Peoples, Lands, Cultures.

Indigenous Peoples, particularly Elders and Knowledge Holders, are central to the program and curriculum. The program features three innovative components including a full year, land-based Indigenous Knowledge course; a three-month practicum field placement with an Indigenous community or organization; and the Bimaadiziwin/Atonhetseri:io – an exceptional opportunity to apprentice with an Elder or Knowledge Holder in the second year.

• Learn from faculty members (including Elders and Knowledge Holders) who have connections to Indigenous communities across the country and around the world.
• Conduct scholarly research, develop innovative theoretical approaches and methodologies and use associated research tools that are appropriate in an Indigenous research context.