Program Description
The Ph.D. Program in Indigenous Studies has one field, Indigenous Knowledges: Peoples, Lands, Waters, Cultures. Over the course of four years, students complete coursework, comprehensive examinations, a dissertation proposal, and a dissertation.
The Ph.D. Program brings together, at the graduate level, Indigenous and non-Indigenous students to engage at an advanced level with the historical, cultural and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples.
Graduate students conduct scholarly research, develop innovative theoretical approaches and methodologies and use associated research tools that are appropriate in an Indigenous research context.
Upon completion of the program graduates will have a unique set of skills and experiences to draw upon as they transition into a profession of their choice.
As an interdisciplinary program, we offer students the opportunity to draw from and also situate themselves ethically in a variety of disciplines (history, law, science, education, performance, literature, etc...). The program combines academic, cultural and experiential pedagogies through a partnership between the University and Indigenous communities. Indigenous peoples, particularly Indigenous Elders who possess knowledge of traditional cultures and languages, are central to the Program.
Specific Objectives of the Program:
• to advance Indigenous Studies as an interdisciplinary field of study through the rebuilding and recognition of Indigenous knowledge systems and the creation of knowledge which reflects Indigenous peoples’ experiences.
• to make available to students, at an advanced level, education that will enable graduates to employ a range of experience and skills in their chosen profession.
• to explore research methodologies that reflect Indigenous knowledge systems.
• to provide non-Indigenous students with tools to become good allies to Indigenous communities and organizations.
• to prepare students for a variety of careers that will benefit from highly educated individuals who wish to contribute to the strengthening of human dignity and relationships with the planet and all its inhabitants.