Certificate in Reconciliation Studies

Certificate in Reconciliation Studies

The First Nations University of Canada’s Certificate in Reconciliation Studies (CRS) is available online to serve a national audience. FNUniv has created an 18-credit (6 course) Certificate in Reconciliation Studies. Following the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the Certificate in Reconciliation Studies focuses on recognizing the shared history of Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples and the need to promote healing, equity, and respect for/of Indigenous cultures and values in Canadian Society. The course will be delivered in person at one of the three First Nations University of Canada Campuses as well as through online delivery to increase the availability of the program across Canada.

Who would benefit from the program?

The Certificate in Reconciliation Studies is intended to benefit non-degree seeking individuals who may apply this certificate toward career advancement. The Certificate in Reconciliation Studies courses can also be used toward various degree programs at the First Nations University of Canada such as Indigenous Studies, Indigenous Social Work, Indigenous Education, and Indigenous Health Studies.

Program Outline

This 18-credit program (6 courses) provides a core of coursework and electives from across FNUniv departments that will familiarize students with efforts to close the gap between First Nations and non-First Nations societies within Canada. Course options include class options in INDG, INHS, INSW, ILP, and ADMN. The Certificate in Reconciliation Studies will be available at our campuses and online. 

Core Courses: 

• INDG 100 Introduction to Indigenous Studies 
• INDG 260 Residential School History 
• INDG 262 Reconciliation and Indigenous Resurgence in Canada 
• ILP 100 Introduction to Intercultural Leadership 

One of: 

• INHS 100 Introduction to Indigenous Health Studies 1 
• INSW 200 Introduction to Indigenous Social Work 
• EIND 205 Introduction to Indigenous Education 

One of:

• INHS 101 Introduction to Indigenous Health Studies 2 
• ADMN 225 First Nations Economic Development 
• INSW 377 Traditional Self-Healing 

Course Information: 

• INDG 100 Introduction to Indigenous Studies
  • This course is subject of Indigenous Studies with a survey of Indigenous peoples in Canada from their origins, through European influence and to the present. 
  • *Note: INDG 100 and INDG 101 can be taken concurrently with permission of the Department Head. 

• INDG 260 Residential School History
  • A historical look at the rationale, ideology, operations, and deficiencies of the Indian Residential School system of Canada including underfunding, physical and spiritual abuse, and student mortality. 
  • *** Prerequisite: INDG 100 or permission of Department Head

• INDG 262 Reconciliation and Indigenous Resurgence in Canada
  • This course explores different perspectives and policies towards renewing the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and Settler Canada. Students will consider how the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation calls to action may guide reconciliation and Indigenous resurgence in Canada.  

• ILP 100 Introduction to Intercultural Leadership
  • An introductory seminar examining theory and the skills required for future leaders to lead organizations and communities in the context of the changing demographics and emerging labour force in Saskatchewan. Students will assess their attitudes, biases, beliefs and current leadership skills and create a personal leadership development plan. 

• INHS 100 Introduction to Indigenous Health Studies 1
  • Introduction to health science emphasizing Indigenous perspectives. Topics: history of health and health care, theories of health, personal health, consumerism, interpreting health information and statistics, health careers. 

• INSW 200 Introduction to Indigenous Social Work
  • This course provides an overview of both First Nations and western social work models, historical development, and current practice issues. Students are introduced to a critical analysis of the social work profession, and exposed to a range of social work theories and models. 

• EIND 205 Introduction to Indigenous Education
  • The implications of culture and cultural change for education are examined using examples from First Nations cultures. Ways of integrating First Nations cultures into classroom practice are examined. 
  • ***Prerequisite: EPS 116 or permission from the First Nations University of Canada, Indigenous Education Department Head.

• INHS 101 Introduction to Health Studies 2
  • Introduction to health science emphasizing Indigenous perspectives. Topics: organization of health services, mental health, nutrition, fitness, sexuality, human relationships, substance abuse, communicable and chronic disease, aging, environmental health, ethical issues. 
  • *** Prerequisite: INHS 100

• ADMN 225 First Nations Economic Development
  • This course is designed to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of various approaches to band entrepreneurial development undertaken by government agencies, research and planning groups, band organizations, band councils and individual band entrepreneurs. Problem areas and alternative approaches will be investigated in relation to the physical and social environments, external factors, and the socio-cultural environment. 
  • *** Prerequisite: ADMN 100

• INSW 377 Introduction to Traditional Self-Healing
  • This course, taught by a traditional person, assists students in self-healing following First Nations teachings. This course uses the sacred circle to discuss personal issues. There is a concentration on traditional principles, protocols, philosophies of traditional healing, and ceremonies. 
  • ***Prerequisite: INSW 200. Concurrent enrolment is allowed.