Indigenous Environmental Studies & Sciences Diploma (YKDFN Dechita Naowo)
The Indigenous Environmental Studies & Sciences Diploma program, developed in partnership with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, incorporates Dene ways of knowing and being, including course work involving Dene land use protocols, Dene land stewardship practices, and traditional Dene land navigation skills. The Diploma is offered jointly by the Trent University School of the Environment and Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies, with links to Indigenous Environmental Studies/Sciences degree program.
COURSES
The following 10.0 credits are required to complete the program:
3.0 IESS credits consisting of:
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IESS 1001H Foundations in Indigenous Environmental Studies and Science
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2601Y Indigenous Knowledge Systems and the Natural Environment
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3631H Issues in Indigenous Environmental Studies
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3634H Introduction to Indigenous Food Systems
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4630H Indigenous Environmental Research Protocols an Ethics
5.5 INDG credits consisting of:
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INDG 1001H The Foundation for Reconciliation
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1002H Foundations of Modern Indigenous Life
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1011H Foundations of Indigenous Learning: Writing and Reading
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1012H Foundations of Indigenous Learning: Research and Knowledge Communication
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1500H Foundations of Indigenous Community Development
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1510H Foundations of Indigenous Community Economic Development
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2100Y Introduction to Indigenous Knowledge
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2800Y Introduction to Nishinaabemowin
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4050H Alliances: Indigenous/Non-Indigenous Relationships for Justice
1.5 ERSC credits consisting of:
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ERSC 1010H Environmental Science and Sustainability
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1020H Cases in Environment and Sustainability
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2240H Ecological Assessment for Natural Resource Management
Degrees Offered:
- Diploma
Resume Boosters:
- Earn a diploma from Trent University while studying in the Northwest Territories
- Apply your learning in contexts specifically related to the culture and ecology of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation in the Northwest Territories
- Fast-track your bachelor’s degree by transferring your diploma credits to the IESS B.A or B.Sc. program, or a general B.A. or B.Sc. degree program
- Study in Trent University’s first locally delivered program with a Northern First Nation

Career Paths:
Career Opportunities
- Indigenous or Non-Indigenous Government Policy Specialist
- Environmental Educator
- Natural Resource Manager or Researcher
- Indigenous Corporate Liaison Officer
- Consultant
- Teacher
- Indigenous/Private Sector Liaison
- Park Warden
- Environmental Activist
Admission Requirements
More Requirements
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