About Us
Indigenous Studies @ Western
Indigenous Studies is an interdisciplinary program of study, examining topics relevant to Indigenous peoples' realities. Housed in the Faculty of Social Science, the program allows students to either specifically focus on Indigenous issues or to combine their program with any other undergraduate degrees.
As an interdisciplinary program, it provides scholars with multiple points of reference to examine key issues such as history, language, politics, psychology, cultural studies, health, sociology, arts, economics and education. This approach attempts to reach a more holistic understanding of the factors that impact local and global Indigenous peoples. At Western, we utilize a model that focuses upon the local as the main point of reference to better understand the global.
Our small class size offers students more interaction with their professors. We offer many stand-alone classes but there is also opportunity to take a series of cross-listed offerings with departments such as English, History, Geography and Environment, Media, Information & Techno-culture, and Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies.
In the course of your studies in the Indigenous Studies Program, you will develop skills to conduct research, gain an understanding of Indigenous societies, their language, culture, identity, philosophies, history, world views, social structure and political issues and learn to identify complex issues and challenges facing First Nations.
The program offers minor, major and honours specialization Modules. Indigenous Studies also offers a number of Distance Education courses that may be of interest to individuals not living in London but wishing to expand their knowledge of Indigenous issues.
The Indigenous Studies program at Western is instructed by professors with cross-appointments in other departments as well as appointees in Indigenous Studies. Courses are also taught by other members of the full-time faculty and several excellent part-time instructors who bring specialized knowledge to the classroom as well as a wealth of first-hand experience working with Indigenous communities.
