Support for Indigenous students
We acknowledge with respect the history, customs and culture of the Coast Salish and Straits Salish peoples on whose traditional lands our university resides.
Our commitment
We offer support to Indigenous students throughout their university experience from their first contact with UVic through graduation and beyond.
The grand opening of our First Peoples House took place in early 2010, strengthening services for Indigenous students. We are continuing to develop curricula and methodologies reflective of the needs of Indigenous communities. We welcome you to take part in these exciting new developments.
Indigenous student support
UVic offers a diverse and welcoming network of support systems - it's part of our commitment to the well-being of Indigenous students. You are encouraged to self-identify so that UVic can send you relevant information. The voluntary declaration will NOT be used for admission decisions. Documentation of Indigenous ancestry is not required.
Indigenous students have access to a variety of culturally relevant services, including the Office of Indigenous Affairs, the Native Student Union, and the Indigenous Counselling Office.
Finances
Sponsored Indigenous students should connect with the Office of Indigenous Affairs at the University of Victoria. The office will liaise with the sponsor and advocate on the student's behalf for funding.
Visit Student Awards and Financial Aid for information on costs (tuition, fees and living expenses), loans, bursaries and scholarships.
Check our listing of external student awards for Indigenous students.
Programs
The university has many undergraduate programs that may be of special interest to Indigenous students.
The school of Social Work offers First Nations specializations, including one in child welfare that can help students prepare for leadership roles in their communities.
There are six designated seats for Indigenous applicants wishing to go into nursing.
There are also many certificates that focus on Indigenous issues, such as a teaching certificate in First Nations Language and Culture, Foundations in Indigenous Fine Arts and Aboriginal Language Revitalization.
Students can also take advantage of the Indigenous Studies Minor program or enjoy one of the dozens of courses with Indigenous content in many departments including English, history in art, linguistics, women's studies, history, anthropology, environmental studies, geography, political science, and sociology.
For a full list of undergraduate programs with Indigenous content, see the Indigenous Student Handbook.
Links of interest
Academic calendars
University terminology
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Indigenous Student Handbook
An overview of programs and services of particular interest to Indigenous applicants, including student and faculty profiles.