The Department of Native Studies offers programs leading to a three or four year Bachelor of Arts degree. The three year program may be taken as a single or combined concentration, while the four year program may be taken as a single or combined specialization. An Honors Diploma in Native Studies is available for students who wish to update their general degree to a four year honours. Further, an Aboriginal Legal Education Certificate is offered with the purpose of preparing students for law school while familiarizing them with legal issues relevant to aboriginal peoples. Please see the department link below for further information on programs and course descriptions.
Link to the department of Native Studies web site
Skills developed:
- Understanding of the history and diversity of Native peoples and their traditions
- Knowledge of the complex issues now facing First Nations
- Appreciation of Aboriginal world views, philosophies, cultures, and languages
- Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
- Strong research skills
- A well rounded multidisciplinary perspective which includes knowledge of Native Human Services, Law & Justice, & Political Science
Areas of employment
Graduates of the Native Studies program can expect employment in areas like social services, education, religion, ethics, and law. Laurentain graduates have found careers in counseling, administration, social work, teaching, and more. Additional careers are available in areas like, public relations, public policy, and advocacy.
Sample Careers:
| Archivist |
Lawyer |
Child Protection Worker |
| Lobbyist |
Civil Service Manager |
Political Aide |
| Community Wellness Worker |
Professor |
Cross Cultural Consultant |
| Program Manager |
Employment Manager |
Project Aftercare Worker |
| Family Counsellor |
Public Policy Analyst |
First Nations' Governance |
| Rehabilitational Worker |
Guidance Counselor |
Researcher |
| Heritage Interpreter |
Social Worker |
Journalist |
| Supervisor |
Legal Assistant |
Teacher |
*Some careers will require a Masters, PhD or further education
Who’s hired Laurentian Grads (sample)
| Cambrian College |
MacLeod Public School |
Canadian Council on Learning |
| Metis Nation of Ontario |
Casino Rama |
Nipissing First Nations |
| Child and Family Centre |
Nipissing University |
ConAgra Foods |
| Northern Regional Recovery Continum |
Cree School Board |
Rainbow District School Board |
| Dokis Health Centre |
Sudbury-Manitoulin Children's Aid Society |
Grand Erie District School Board |
| The University of Western Ontario |
Laurentian University |
Université de Sudbury |
Native Studies undergraduates qualify for employment in entry level positions in business, government, and the non profit sector. Graduate studies are necessary for careers in law, counseling, ethics, and related areas. A Ph.D. is generally required for teaching at the university or college level Students should consider combining their degree with other disciplines to increase their marketability following graduation. Skills in computers, statistics, and business are especially valuable contributions to a Native Studies degree.
For more information, contact: the Career and Employment Centre by telephone 673-6598 or by email CareerEmploymentCentre@laurentian.ca
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updated: August 2010