About
This certificate program is designed for students who have an interest in developing a deeper understanding of Indigenous political relationships. It cultivates an understanding and appreciation of the unique socio-political position of Indigenous peoples in Canada as this relates to historical and contemporary issues in governance and politics.
- Two year certificate
- Full or part-time program
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can begin this program off-campus
What you will learn
You will study various levels of government that affect Indigenous groups as well as ongoing relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. You will examine the Federal system of government and its effects on Indigenous identity, community programs and local autonomy. You will acquire specialized knowledge about Indigenous governance and political issues in and beyond Canada.
POLS 221: Global Indigenous Politics
What does it mean to be Indigenous? In what ways are Indigenous politics similar and different in the Global North and Global South? Which political issues dominant the landscape of contemporary Global Indigenous politics? While the course examines contemporary Indigenous politics in Canada, it privileges a more global and comparative perspective to explore the connections between the Global South (e.g. Africa, Asia, Latin America) and Global North (e.g. Australia, Europe, United States). More specifically, the course is organized around key sections which consider the following: the contentious politics of defining Indigeneity, the diverse historical experiences of Indigenous peoples, the politics around land and natural resources, and global challenges around Indigenous peoples' struggles in the areas of cultural survival and human rights. The course concludes by using a case study approach to consider the above issues in greater detail in select political contexts across Africa, Latin America, North America and Oceania.
POLS 222.3: Indigenous Governance and Politics
An analysis of existing and emerging systems of Indigenous governance and politics at the local, regional, provincial and national levels in Canada.
POLS 422.3: First Nations Governance
Examines First Nations governance strategies in Canada, with particular attention to First Nations in Saskatchewan. Attention is devoted to cultural, economic, and political development within First Nations communities. It is designed to provide students with an academic basis for analyzing existing governance development strategies in First Nations communities.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Careers
The Certificate in Indigenous Governance and Politics will prepare you for careers in:
- Political and leadership roles in your community
- Management and administration within your own community
- Policy evaluation and development
- Leadership and organizational roles in local, provincial and national government
- Social justice and equity work in non-governmental organizations
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $746 per 3 credit unit class | $3,611 per 3 credit unit class |
| Student fees | $1,121 per year | $1,121 per year |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay per class (2024-2025 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access. This estimate reflects the price you would pay if you are a full-time student.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 for this program.
Program options
The Certificate in Indigenous Governance and Politics is offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science. You may earn the certificate on its own, concurrently with a degree, or after having already received a degree from here or another institution.
If you are already enrolled at USask, consult your academic advisor regarding enrolling in this program.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Admission requirements and deadlines
Deadlines
Ready to apply?
If you are a current USask student, consult your academic advisor about enrolling in this program.
To apply to this program as a new student, create an admissions account and apply for admission to any undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Science. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $90 CAD. (Effective December 2, the application fee is increasing to $120 CAD.) After you are admitted, declare your plans to the college.
Questions?
If you are interested in more information about Indigenous Governance and Politics or how to receive credit for the certificate, please contact student-advice@artsandscience.usask.ca