Diploma in Indigenous Language Revitalization

A group of students and community members dance together with drummers

About the program

The Diploma in Indigenous Language Revitalization (DILR) is an undergraduate diploma that prepares students to work more deeply and effectively in Indigenous language revitalization (ILR). Building on the Certificate in Indigenous Language Revitalization (CILP)'s foundation in language proficiency, the diploma adds advanced study in language teaching methodology, revitalization contexts and the practical skills needed to engage in effective ILR programming.

Graduates of this program are equipped to:

engage in effective ILR programming in community language nests, schools, cultural programs and beyond
design and lead ILR programs and initiatives
mentor and support emerging language learners and teachers
navigate the sociolinguistic, political and cultural dimensions of language work
continue to a degree program in ILR if desired

Program structure

The DILR is structured as a two-year program. Year 1 is the CILP or equivalent*. Year 2 (DILR) builds on that foundation with advanced language teaching methodology and applied community engagement, anchored by a 3-week practicum. Students normally move through the program as a cohort, connected to an established community partnership.

Students transfer directly into year 2 by completing a re-registration form—there is no additional application fee. Communities that have completed a certificate elsewhere can transfer year 1 credits and enter this program as a year 2 cohort.

*The Certificate in Indigenous Language Revitalization (CILR), offered through UVic Continuing Studies, can also satisfy year 1 of the DILR with the addition of 3 units of language coursework.

Coursework

The DILR is a 31.5-unit program. Year 1 (15 units) is satisfied through the CILP or an approved equivalent. Year 2 (16.5 units) is completed through the DILR coursework. Coursework is adapted to the cultural and linguistic needs of each cohort, with Indigenous language courses tailored to the specific language being studied.

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

Field experience

Students completing year 2 participate in a 3-week practicum (IED 251: Indigenous Language Teaching and Learning Practicum) as part of their required coursework. This hands-on placement provides students the opportunity to apply their teaching preparation in a real language learning setting with guidance from an experienced instructor.

Before beginning the practicum, students must complete all required coursework and obtain a criminal record check.

Ready to apply?

Continuing from the CILP (UVic students): Request a paper application by emailing iedlpa@uvic.ca.

Transferring from another institution: Communities that have completed a certificate-level program elsewhere may enter the DILR as a year 2 cohort with year 1 transfer credits. Contact the IED Program Assistant to discuss eligibility and next steps.

Degree pathways after the DILR

On completing the diploma, students who wish to continue to a degree choose between two pathways:

Path A

Bachelor of Education in Indigenous Language Revitalization (BEDILR): For those pursuing BC K–12 teaching certification. Includes a 6-week practicum and a 10-week final practicum in years 3-5.

Path B

Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Language Proficiency in SENĆOŦEN (BAILP): For those whose primary goal is deep SENĆOŦEN fluency and community language use. Includes an individual capstone project.

Both degree pathways are offered through the Department of Indigenous Education and require completion of the DILR or equivalent approved coursework.