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Indigenous Education

Bachelor of Education in Indigenous Language Revitalization

A group of DILR graduates are pictured together on campus on graduation day.

BC's Indigenous communities are leading some of the most ambitious language revitalization efforts in the world, and they need qualified, community-grounded teachers to sustain that work in schools and programs. The Bachelor of Education in Indigenous Language Revitalization (BEDILR) prepares graduates to teach Indigenous languages and support revitalization in K–12 and community settings, with eligibility for BC Professional Teaching Certification at Category 5.

Program at a glance

  • Credential: Bachelor of Education in Indigenous Language Revitalization
  • Total units: 75 units over approximately 5 academic years (including CILP and DILR)
  • Delivery: Community-based cohort model (first two years minimum); distributed and campus-based options in later years
  • Ladders from: Certificate in Indigenous Language Proficiency (CILP) → Diploma in Indigenous Language Revitalization (DILR)

About the program

The BEDILR is a laddered, cohort-delivered degree that keeps learners connected to their language and Nation throughout five years of study. It prepares BC Indigenous community members to become certified teachers across elementary school subjects, with their own language and culture at the forefront. Graduates are equipped to teach in immersion schools and lead revitalization within the K–12 context. 

Program structure

The BEDILR is built around a five-year ladder with recognized credentials at each stage. These years may be delivered as a continuing community cohort or through a combination of in-community, on-campus, and distributed learning, including summer sessions.

Practicum & field experience

  • Year 2: Field Experience (IED 251) 
    • A 3-week teaching and learning practicum in a language setting, completed as part of required DILR coursework.
  • Year 4: Field Experience (IED 360 + IED 361) 
    • A field experience seminar paired with a 6-week practicum in an educational setting.
    • Year 5: Final Practicum (IED 461)
      • A 10-week elementary practicum in a school setting, completed with a mentor teacher and faculty supervisor.

Coursework

The complete BEDILR program is 75.0 units, normally taken over 5 academic years. This includes year 1 (CILP, 15 units), year 2 (DILR, 16.5 units) and the BEd coursework completed in years 3-5. The majority of coursework is adapted to the needs of each cultural and linguistic cohort.

View full program and course requirements in the UVic academic calendar.

Ready to apply?

Admission requirements

Students normally enter this program having completed the DILR with:

  • at least 30 units of completed coursework, including Indigenous language studies (22.5 units, with 15 units focused specifically on language proficiency)
  • sessional GPA of at least 3.0 (C+) on the most recent session, or on the most recent 12 units if the session is less than 12 units
  • 3.0 units of required English courses, GPA of at least 3.0 (C+) in both courses

Please email iedlpa@uvic.ca to request a paper application form.

Questions about the BEDILR or partnership opportunities? Contact the IED Program Assistant at iedlpa@uvic.ca or 250-721-7824.