Associate Degree in Arts | First Nations
Associate of Arts
In 2021/2022 sections may offered in-person or via Distributed Learning. Learn more about Distributed Learning at CMTN. Individual sections may vary, please contact info@coastmountaincollege.ca if you have any questions.
The First Nations Studies Specialization provides all students with the opportunity to learn about the people upon whose territory they reside, to learn about First Nations people from their voices, perspectives and worldviews, while gaining an understanding of the diversity amongst First Nations peoples' cultures, values, beliefs, traditions, protocols, history, languages, and relationship with the land.
New and exciting First Nations Studies courses include:
- Ethnobotany: Plants & First Peoples
- Introduction to First Nations Studies
- Aboriginal Language Preservation and Revitalization
- First Nations Community Research
- First Nations Education
- First Nations Health
Other courses include an overall First Nations focus or a portion dedicated to First Nations issues and/or themes.
Apply to CMTN
Visit Apply to CMTN for an Admissions Checklist and to apply online.
Our Educational Advisors are here to help if you have any questions or need guidance along the way.
Dates and locations
| Intake | Location |
|---|---|
| September and January | Terrace and Prince Rupert |
Study on a full or part-time basis. Some courses are available online and by teleconference.
Note: not all courses are offered at every campus. Speak with an Educational Advisor for assistance with course selection.
This specialization program allows students to focus on First Nations Studies while still receiving the benefits of an Associate Degree. This program has been designed to facilitate maximum transfer-ability to a full Degree program or to conclude after two years at CMTN.
First Nation Studies- associate degree
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENGL 101 | University Writing | 3 |
| or ENGL 151 | Technical Writing I | |
| ENGL 102 | Introduction to Literature | 3 |
| or ENGL 152 | Technical Writing II | |
| 3 credits of any Math/Computer/Science/Stats Course: | 3 | |
| FNST 110 | Ethnobotany: Plants & First People | 3 |
| 3 credits of any Science Course | 3 | |
| ANTH 111 | First Nations of Canada | 3 |
| ANTH 112 | First Nations of B.C. | 3 |
| FNST 120 | Aboriginal Languages - Preservation and Revitalization | 3 |
| HIST 209 | A History of Native People of Canada | 3 |
| or ARTH 210 | Northwest Coast Art Museum and Gallery Studies | |
| 3 credits of any 1st year Aboriginal Language Course: | 3 | |
| FNST 101 | Introductory to First Nations Studies | 3 |
| FNST 200 | Aboriginal Community Research | 3 |
| FNST 210 | Aboriginal Health: Community Wellness & Healing | 3 |
| 3 credits of any Arts Course | 3 | |
| 3 credits of any Arts OR Science Course | 3 | |
| Category 2 Courses | ||
| 3 credits of any 1st year Arts Course | 3 | |
| 3 credits of any 2nd year Arts Course | 3 | |
| 3 credits of any 1st year Arts OR Science Course | 3 | |
| Category 2 or 3 Courses | ||
| 3 credits of any 1st year Arts Course | 3 | |
| 3 credits of any 2nd year Arts Course | 3 | |
| 3 credits of any 2nd year Arts OR Science Course | ||
| Total Credits | 60 | |
Existing CMTN courses with First Nations Content - Category 2 and 3. The courses listed in Category 2 and 3 are not an exhaustive list of courses with First Nations content and may include other university credit courses.
- Apply direct to the University Credit Program.
- Submit proof of English Studies 12 or First People's English 12 or equivalent.
- Once admitted, register in the courses required for this specialization.
English proficiency is required for all students entering CMTN programs. Please visit our English Language Alternatives page to see how this requirement can be met.
Need help with the application process? Contact an Educational Advisor.
Admission to an intake does not guarantee completion in 2 years.
| Fees | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | 30 Credits | 30 Credits |
| Tuition | $2,964.90 | $12,602.10 |
| Mandatory fees | $226.50 | $274.44 |
| Lab fees (16.49 per credit)1 | $49.47 | $49.47 |
| Student Union fees2 | $83.98 | $83.98 |
| Health and Dental Insurance4,5 | $250 | $548.75 |
| Total Tuition: | $3,575.15 | $13,558.74 |
| Books & supplies2 | $2,000.00 | $2,000.00 |
| Field School fees3 | $900.00 | $900.00 |
| Total: | $6,475.15 | $16,458.74 |
Tuition and fees effective August 1, 2021 for the 2021/22 Academic Year.
1Lab fees are mandatory. All associate degrees require a minimum of 3 credits in laboratory science, and students may take up to 42 lab credits.
2Costs are approximate and may vary depending on courses taken. Student union fees are term based.
3Field schools have additional costs between $100 - $900 per field school, depending on the location and the activities. Field schools are not a mandatory component of all associate degrees, however, students are strongly encouraged to attend a field school during the spring/summer semester. Associate Degrees specializing in Environmental Geoscience are encouraged to attend a minimum of two field schools. Field schools are subject to different deposit requirements and refund rules.
4The Coast Mountain Students Union (CMSU) is pleased to announce that Extended Health and Dental Insurance has been approved by student referendum held in March 2021. Additional information will be provided by CMSU July 2021, including details of the coverage and directions for the opt out process for students with equivalent coverage. For any inquiries about the plan or referendum, please contact Golnoosh Namazi, organiser@mycmsu.ca
5Basic Health insurance is mandatory for all international students. Health insurance costs will be charged every term until students provide proof of MSP.
Career opportunities
First Nations students receive credentials and/or qualifications to work in their communities (administrative, research or supervisory positions). All students acquire the tools to carry out honourable and useful research with First Nations communities because they learn and understand the importance of knowing the community they are working with (e.g. background, history, cultural protocols).
For those wanting to complete university degrees, an Associate's Degree in First Nations Studies can ladder into other degree programs, such as a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Social Work, or a Bachelor of Education.