Indigenous Communication & Fine Arts

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Indigenous Communication & Fine Arts

Indigenous Communication Arts and Indigenous Fine Arts combines two programs that engage and empower artistic creativity, critical thinking, and community engagement by developing communication skills in the fine arts and journalism.

Indigenous Communication Arts (INCA)

Do you like telling stories? Are you interested in podcasting, radio, TV, and other forms of communication? Do you want to experience learning in an Indigenous environment, with smaller classes and a family-like feel?

The Indigenous Communication Arts (INCA) program provides a foundation for multimedia storytelling and communications that is grounded in Indigenous history, languages, and worldviews. We offer the following exciting opportunities for all interested students:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Journalism and Communication Arts.
    A four-year degree for students seeking the base qualification for a long-term career in journalism and communications.
  • Bachelor of Indigenous Journalism and Communication Arts.
    A two-year after-degree for students who already hold a B.A. degree and want to add journalism and communications to their career options.
  • Diploma in Indigenous Communication Arts (INCA).
    A two-year diploma for students interested in exploring entry-level communications and journalism career options and/or preparing for degree studies.
  • Certificate in Indigenous Journalism and Communications (INJC).
    A one-year certificate for students seeking new skills in media production and communications.

All courses include hands-on writing, media production training, and real-life working experiences in communications offices and news outlets.  In addition, students gain valuable experience producing podcasts and broadcasts for our campus radio station, CFNU The Stream. Students also take courses in Indigenous media ethics, Indigenous media history, business communications and Indigenous media business development. Through the four-year degree option, students also learn an Indigenous language.

Students graduate from INCA with industry connections, a full portfolio of media projects, and the ability to communicate Indigenous stories and perspectives across cultures.

Students take INCA courses because:

  • They want to tell stories that matter.
  • They want to improve their professional writing and storytelling skills.
  • There is a real market demand for storytellers and communicators who understand and identify with Indigenous approaches and worldviews. 

Alumni have found successful careers as communicators for organizations seeking to reach Indigenous audiences, including businesses, First Nations governments, community-based organizations and public sector offices. INCA graduates have also distinguished themselves as news storytellers at APTN, CBC, Global, Rawlco Radio, MBC Radio, Eagle Feather News and the Regina Leader-Post.  In addition, alum have also found rewarding work in communications across Indigenous and mainstream government and community organizations. 

Notable alumni over the years include Pulitzer prize-winning investigative journalist Connie Walker, CTV assignment editor Nelson Bird, APTN News host Creeson Agecoutay, Eagle Feather News managing editor Kerry Benjoe, CBC North managing director Mervin Brass, and many more.

To qualify for admission to INCA, students must be eligible for admission to the First Nations University of Canada/University of Regina. Proficiency in English is a requirement along with basic computer skills.

See our students in action at www.cfnuradio.ca 

View course offerings and additional program information at www.incaonline.ca


Program Length:

  • 1 – 4 years, depending on Certificate, Diploma or Bachelor

Admission Requirements:

Minimum 65% average using the following courses:

  • English Language Arts A30
  • English Language Arts B30
  • Two approved 30-level Math, Science, Language, or Social Science courses
  • One additional approved 30-level course

Career Opportunities:

  • Journalism
  • Public Relations
  • News Director
  • Broadcast Assignment Editor

  • Television Host
  • Government
  • Public Sector
  • Community-based Organizations

Program Available At: 

  • Regina Campus

INCA has a microsite that provides in-depth information on courses, careers, student support and what you need to get started in the Communications field! Click here to explore INCA Online.

INCA produced the “Words of Wisdom” podcast which aired on National Aboriginal Day 2020 on MBC Radio. The podcast includes stories about late Elder Audrey Cochrane, the FNUniv Art Collection, faculty members Blair Stonechild, Solomon Ratt and Audrey Dreaver.
We welcome you all to have a listen.

https://soundcloud.com/user-550990620/sets/wow-words-of-wisdom-radio-special-for-indigenous-peoples-day-2020


Indigenous Fine Arts

The Indigenous Fine Arts program is structured on the knowledge and appreciation of the significant place the fine arts have had within all cultures of the Americas for millennia. The faculty has expertise in contemporary and historic Indigenous art forms and contemporary aesthetics.

Studio work and hands-on instruction from experienced faculty, combined with skills development, help students determine their artistic direction and future careers in the fine arts, graduate programs, and community leadership. In addition to studio arts instruction, the students will build their communication, writing, research, and analytical thinking skills in the social and natural sciences, cultural fields, and societal contexts.

The Indigenous Fine Arts facilities at the Regina Campus include a 2-dimensional studio, a 3-dimensional studio, a Historic Materials studio-based classroom, and a Preparation studio.

Students who wish to complete a four-year program should consult with the Program Coordinator and or Indigenous Fine Arts faculty. 

Credit Hours:

  • 30 credit hours
  • 120 credit hours
  • 120 credit hours
  • 120 credit hours

Program Length:

  • 2 – 4 years, depending on Certificate, or Bachelor

Admission Requirements:

Minimum 65% average using the following courses:

  • English Language Arts A30
  • English Language Arts B30
  • Two approved 30-level Math, Science, Language, or Social Science courses
  • One additional approved 30-level course

Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Arts) and (Indigenous Art) Portfolio is required.

Certificate in Fine Arts (Visual Arts) and (Indigenous Art) – Portfolio is required

Career Opportunities:

  • Studio Artist
  • Arts Education
  • Entrepreneurship

  • Museum or Gallery Arts – Administration
  • Exhibition Design

Program Available At: 

  • Regina Campus

The Indigenous Fine Arts microsite is available to view https://indigenousfinearts.incaonline.ca/

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