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Indigenous Education

Certificate in Indigenous Language Proficiency

Three CILP graduates on campus for graduation.

About the program

The Certificate in Indigenous Language Proficiency (CILP) is a community-based certificate program focused on building proficiency in a specific Indigenous language. The program supports Indigenous communities in creating new adult speakers by providing a strong foundation in language learning and the methods that support ongoing language acquisition.

Each program delivery is specific to one language community. Coursework is adapted to the cultural and linguistic needs of the cohort, and learning is situated in communicative, community contexts.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for Indigenous community members who want to learn their language and build real proficiency and who may want to become language teachers. It gives learners the skills, methods and mentorship they need to move toward fluency and to carry their language forward. Graduates leave with:

  • a strong foundation in their specific Indigenous language
  • practical language learning methods and self-directed strategies
  • an understanding of language revitalization in a social and community context
  • experience working with language mentors and community experts
  • a recognized credential from UVic and an optional path toward a diploma or degree

Program structure

This program is delivered entirely in community, in partnership with a specific Indigenous nation or organization. Students progress through the program together as a cohort. Instruction draws on local language experts, Elders and mentors alongside UVic coursework.

On completion, students may continue directly into year 2 of the ILR ladder, which is the Diploma in Indigenous Language Revitalization, by completing a re-registration form at no additional cost.

Practical learning

This program emphasizes immersive and self-directed language learning alongside structured coursework. Students work with language mentors and engage in direct language practice as core components of the program, not just electives. This hands-on approach is central to building genuine communicative proficiency.

Coursework

The CILP is a 15-unit certificate program. The majority of coursework is adapted to the needs of each cultural and linguistic cohort, with Indigenous language courses tailored to the specific language being studied. Course offerings will vary by cohort and community partnership. Students move through the program together as a cohort in a predetermined set of courses delivered in community.

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

How to apply

Applications are submitted by paper application only and are coordinated through established community partnerships. Students apply as a cohort when a new community partnership begins. Applications are processed in collaboration with the sponsoring community partner and UVic Undergraduate Admissions.

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