What to expect from a career in Aboriginal Services
Aboriginal studies programs at Ontario Colleges have a variety of focuses, from education and advocacy to health and wellness. But what they all have in common is recognition of the unique perspective offered by Aboriginal cultures and communities. The goal of these programs is to help preserve these perspectives and prepare graduates to bring their knowledge into their communities through their chosen career paths.
If you're interested in combining your career with Aboriginal studies, here's what you need to know.
Aboriginal Studies Courses
Many types of programs in the Ontario college system are taught from the perspective of the Aboriginal community and are designed to meet the needs of its members. The general categories into which these programs fall are:
Health and Wellness. Aboriginal social services, family services and counselling programs help focus on the unique health and wellness needs of Native Americans in modern times, with respect for Aboriginal culture, traditions, values and beliefs.
Community and Education. Education programs, such as Native early childhood education or Aboriginal general arts and sciences, examine the social and cultural traditions and values of Native Americans and how they should be included in the education system. Community-based programs, such as Aboriginal community development and advocacy, help ensure the preservation of cultural practices and the protection of legal and cultural rights of Native Americans in Canadian society.
Preparatory Programs. Some Aboriginal studies programs are intended to help Aboriginal students gain or preserve their sense of cultural identity, while prepping them to transition into another college program. These programs will focus on Native culture and heritage but will also provide foundations for overall academic success.
General Aboriginal Studies Program Requirements
Many Ontario college Aboriginal studies programs are intended to help Aboriginal students find careers, but others are open to anyone with an interest in Native culture. Specific requirements for the different types of Aboriginal studies programs will vary, so be sure to check program details carefully.
Aboriginal Studies Jobs and Salaries
Graduates of Aboriginal studies programs can find work across a number of different industries, depending on the particular program they have completed. Just a few of these industries include:
Schools and day cares
Salaries will depend on the chosen industry and role.
Ontario Colleges Offering Aboriginal Studies Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of Aboriginal studies programs at Ontario colleges.
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada