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Indigenous Education

Master of Education in Indigenous Language Revitalization

The Master of Education in Indigenous Language Revitalization (MILR) is the only graduate program of its kind in Canada. Offered jointly by the Faculties of Education and Humanities, the program prepares community leaders to breathe new life into Indigenous languages through rigorous scholarship, relational practice and deep accountability to community.

Language is a vital link to cultural identity, to the land, to the past and future and to the health and well-being of individuals and communities. When you enter this program, you join an ever-growing network of language activists doing that work.

Pathways & coursework

The MILR offers two pathways to a master's degree, plus an early exit certificate option:

Graduate Certificate in ILR - 6.0 units

Complete 6.0 units and exit with a recognized credential, in consultation with the Department Chair and Graduate Advisor. This pathway is ideal for students seeking focused professional or community-based training in Indigenous language revitalization without committing to the full master’s program. 

Master of Education (MEd) in ILR - 16.5 units

Complete a major project. All MILR students are initially admitted to the MEd stream. This pathway emphasizes research-based applied learning and practical contributions to language revitalization work in educational and community settings.

Master of Arts (MA) in ILR - 18.0 units

Focus on a research thesis. After your first three semesters, you may request a transfer to the MA program. The MA pathway is designed for students interested in advanced academic research and developing deeper expertise in Indigenous language revitalization scholarship.

See the full program and course details on the UVic academic calendar.

Program structure

The MILR is built for working professionals. You don't have to choose between your community and your graduate degree.

Cohort model

Move through the program with a close-knit peer group. New cohorts begin every two years.

Intensive format
Attend on-campus sessions for approximately three weeks each summer, plus five- to six-day sessions each fall and spring.
Blended learning
The majority of coursework is completed online, so you stay rooted in your community while you study.

Career & community outcomes

Our MILR graduates lead in the following areas:

  • Community revitalization: Leading local language recovery efforts and community-based initiatives with the credentials and networks to back you up.
  • Educational impact: Building and supporting post-secondary programs focused on the recovery and maintenance of Indigenous languages.
  • Policy and governance: Meeting the growing demand for Indigenous leadership and language expertise in government and non-profit sectors.
  • Applied research: Producing theses and major projects that are practical tools and resources for your language community to use.

How to apply

Ready to apply? Here's what you need to get started:

  • Online application: Submit through the UVic graduate admissions portal.
  • Two references: From an academic authority, a professional colleague, or a recognized Indigenous Language Authority.
  • Statement of intent: 500 words on your community connection, language background and goals.
  • Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.

Exceptional entry: No undergraduate degree? If you have significant, relevant experience in language revitalization, you may qualify for exceptional entry. Contact us to learn more.

Visit UVic graduate admissions

Contact us

Colleen Juricic
Program Assistant & Graduate Secretary
250-721-7824
colleenjuricic@uvic.ca
MacLaurin Building, Room A260

For academic inquiries: iedlpa@uvic.ca