Indigenous Studies
Enrich your spirit
We work with the Anishnaabe Education and Training Circle, a group of 21 communities and organizations, to develop programs and services for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students.
Our programs include a blend of contemporary and traditional teaching methods, with Indigenous cultural values and perspectives embedded in the curriculum. Our goal is to provide our students with exceptional learning experiences that enhance all areas of their life – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
Why Indigenous Studies at Georgian?
Highlights
- Enjoy a home away from home in the Indigenous Resource Centre! Take part in cultural teachings, craft workshops, guest speaker events, feasts and more
- Gain valuable work experience and workplace connections with exciting work-integrated learning opportunities
- Indigenous Studies programs are open for everyone, Indigenous and non-Indigenous students alike!
- Learn in a college community dedicated to embedding as much Indigenous culture and knowledge as possible
- Enrich your learning experiences with access to Niwijiagans (peer mentors), Getsijid (Indigenous student counsellor), Indigenous student advisors and Visiting Elders
Programs
Certificates (1 year)
- General Arts and Science – Shki Miikan (New Road)
- Maajii-Anishnaabemdaa (Start Speaking the Language)
Diplomas (2 years)
Not sure about your next career move?
Find the career that’s right for you, and the Georgian program that will take you there.
Have questions?
Connect with us for more information
Do you have questions about our Indigenous Studies programs? Do you want to learn more about your next steps to becoming a Georgian student?
We’re here to help answer your questions and connect you to all things Georgian College!
Indigenous Education Excellence Award
Georgian is extremely proud to be the gold winner of the 2022 Indigenous Education Excellence Award, presented by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan).
The Indigenous Education Excellence Award recognizes a college or institute that has a demonstrated commitment to Indigenous education through innovative approaches and dedicated structures, curriculum, holistic support services and community partnerships that contribute to learner success, as well as socio-economic development and reconciliation within communities.
Watch a video to learn more about Indigenous initiatives at Georgian, and see the many ways students experience not only academic success, but also personal growth and development for their future lives.
Learning experiences
Indigenous Resource Centre
Georgian has Indigenous Resource Centres at our Barrie, Midland, Orillia and Owen Sound campuses.
The centres provide a culturally supportive and comfortable environment where you can study, socialize, and access a wide range of resources. Our friendly staff are here to support you, whether academically, personally or spiritually.
Annual Pow Wow
Georgian’s annual traditional Pow Wow draws dancers, drummers, vendors and spectators from all over Turtle Island. The one-day cultural celebration is open to all and attracts thousands of people to the Barrie Campus.
Hosted by Georgian College’s Indigenous Resource Centre staff and students, the Pow Wow is a celebration of traditional Indigenous culture, song and dance.
Taking the Shki-Miikan (New Road) program and then later Indigenous Community and Social Development program at Georgian College helped me feel proud of my Native heritage. That pride turned into higher self-confidence and shaped me into the person I am today. —Charmaine Whitman
Connect with us
Join us IN PERSON for Open House on Saturday, Nov. 12 at all campuses!
RSVP to attend Open House
Attend a Get to Know Georgian
virtual information session.
Register for an upcoming session
Take a guided, in-person tour
of our campuses.
Book a campus tour
Book a phone appointment
with a recruitment specialist.
Connect with a recruiter
Continuing education
Take a single course, or work towards a diploma, certificate or degree—all at a pace that’s right for you. Part-time courses are offered at night or on weekends, or you can opt for online learning.
Looking for credit?
Select from a range of programs, register class-by-class and study on your time. Georgian offers degrees, certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas and graduate certificates.
Professional development
Looking to advance your career, meet an industry requirement or learn a new skill? We offer a variety of evening and weekend courses to support your ongoing growth.
Study online
Take a course or program online instead as an alternative to in-class. Online courses for a range of subjects are available to part-time and full-time students through OntarioLearn.
