Career possibilities

Nicole Mandryk with a drum
Nicole Mandryk (psychology and Indigenous studies) was hired to engage with local Aboriginal communities through summer programs offered at Mary’s Farm and Sanctuary, including nature-based counselling, equine-facilitated wellness workshops, drumming events and youth camps.

What can I do with a degree in Indigenous studies?

A degree in Indigenous studies enables you to develop critical analyses of contemporary social issues that have deep roots in the past, in order to make positive change for the future.

Indigenous Studies offers courses on how to work respectfully and productively with Indigenous communities and organizations through experiential and land-based learning.

At UVic, you'll acquire the analytical and communication skills to build community and help forge new alliances for societal transformation and decolonization.

Co-op for Indigenous studies students

Co-op helps you start building your career while you're still at university. It's designed to work around your academic courses, so you'll complement what you're learning in class with practical workplace experience.

Co-op enables you to try out a range of jobs before you graduate; gain work experience and skills; and make connections with employers. And you get paid for the experience! 

Indigenous studies students have had co-op jobs like:

  • Environmental and social analyst (Two Worlds Consulting)
  • Curatorial intern (Legacy Art Galleries)
  • First Nations and Indigenous Relations Officer (BC Wildfire Service)

and more!

Learn how to join the co-op program.

Career options for Indigenous studies graduates

  • Activist
  • Archivist
  • Children's rights advocate
  • Community educator and advocate
  • Community liaison officer
  • Community-industry liaison
  • Cultural advisor
  • Cultural resources manager
  • Employment equity officer
  • Government agency worker
  • Indigenous issues consultant
  • International aid worker
  • Non-profit organization director
  • Political aid/advisor
  • Public policy analyst
  • Social program manager

Additional education and training may be required.

UVic Co-op + Careers offers co-op and career support for Indigenous students.

Develop your career