Indigenous Teacher Education Program

Nipissing University in North Bay, Ontario, blends a long history with a contemporary focus on undergraduate learning. Founded in 1909, Nipissing serves a community of about 5,000 students and is known for small class sizes, accessible faculty, and a campus culture that supports engaged learning. Students benefit from a balanced mix of liberal arts and professional programs, including arts, sciences, education, business, and social work, and a program portfolio that supports exploration and career preparation.

Academically, Nipissing emphasizes interactive teaching, applied learning, and opportunities for research and community-based projects. With roughly 26 program areas and a supportive advising structure, the university helps students build clear pathways from classroom study to internships, practicums, and employment. Class discussions, close mentorship, and experiential assignments make it easier to develop practical skills alongside critical thinking and communication abilities.

For international students, Nipissing offers a welcoming environment in a mid-sized Canadian city that provides safe living, outdoor recreation, and a close-knit campus experience. Services for newcomers include orientation, academic support, and pathways to co-op or work opportunities. Graduates leave with credentials and practical experience that prepare them for careers or further study, all within a community that values student success and holistic development.

This program prepares individuals of Indigenous ancestry to teach using culturally relevant strategies within an Indigenous worldview. Students complete online courses during the school year and on-campus sessions in July. The program leads to a Certificate of Qualification from the Ontario College of Teachers in the Primary/Junior Divisions. Graduates are qualified to teach in elementary schools across Ontario.

Focus areas include Culturally relevant teaching, Indigenous worldviews, Language revitalization, Curriculum development, Community-based education, Policy and advocacy.

Three on-site summer sessions in North Bay, online courses during fall, winter, and spring terms, and three in-school internships. Duration not specified.

Graduates become elementary school teachers in Ontario and work in diverse educational and community settings.

Successful completion of 18 university credits or equivalent, or one year of full-time study at an accredited college or Indigenous Post-Secondary Institute. Minimum overall average of 60%. Proof of Indigenous ancestry required.

Online and on-campus. Part-time. Summer sessions in North Bay.