Aboriginal Health

Program Overview

The Aboriginal Health program at the University of Lethbridge empowers students with the knowledge and skills to address critical health issues facing Indigenous populations in Canada. Through a blend of traditional teachings and contemporary perspectives, the program prepares graduates to develop culturally competent programs and services that promote inclusivity and equity for Indigenous communities. Graduates are equipped for careers in Indigenous health organizations, non-profits, and mainstream health facilities, where they can contribute to improving the health and well-being of Indigenous individuals and communities.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Aboriginal Health program at the University of Lethbridge addresses critical social justice issues in Indigenous health in Canada, focusing on righting historical wrongs and working towards inclusivity and equity for Indigenous populations.
• Objectives: The program aims to develop culturally competent individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and work towards resolving complex issues affecting Indigenous health, including poverty, food and water security, addiction, youth suicide, and family violence.
• Description: Graduates of the program gain an understanding of historical and contemporary factors influencing the health of Indigenous populations and learn to develop programs and services tailored to meet the specific needs of Indigenous communities.

Outline:

• Content and Structure: The program emphasizes traditional Indigenous teachings and contemporary perspectives on health through engagement with elders, knowledge keepers, healthcare professionals, and Indigenous community representatives.
• Course Schedule and Modules:
• PUBH 1000: Introduction to Public Health
introduces foundational principles of public health, health promotion, and disease prevention.
• HLSC 3300: Traditional Aboriginal Health Concepts examines traditional Indigenous approaches to health and healing, cultural beliefs, spiritual practices, and the role of community.
• HLSC 3310: Contemporary Issues in Aboriginal Health analyzes pressing health issues impacting Indigenous populations, such as mental health disparities, intergenerational trauma, and inequities in healthcare systems.
• HLSC 4350: Practicum in Aboriginal Health (15.0 credit hours) provides supervised practical experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills while contributing to the health of an Indigenous community.

Assessment:

• The program utilizes various assessment methods, including assignments, presentations, exams, reflective papers, and community-based projects.
• Assessment criteria focus on evaluating students' knowledge, understanding, critical thinking abilities, communication skills, and cultural competency.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: Instruction is delivered through interactive lectures, discussions, workshops, group work, and experiential learning opportunities.
• Faculty: Faculty members possess expertise in various areas of Indigenous health, including public health, traditional healing, community development, mental health, and policy analysis.
• Unique Approaches: The program prioritizes cultural safety and sensitivity throughout the curriculum, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for students with diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous learners.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the Aboriginal Health program are prepared for roles in diverse health settings, including:
• Indigenous organizations and communities dedicated to health and healing
• Non-profit and non-governmental organizations
• Mainstream health facilities serving Indigenous peoples
• Employment Responsibilities: Program graduates can assist with:
• Identifying and understanding the unique health needs of Indigenous populations
• Developing culturally relevant programs and services to address these needs
• Planning and evaluating healthcare initiatives for Indigenous communities
• Expected Outcomes: Graduates leave the program prepared to make meaningful contributions to improving the health and well-being of Indigenous individuals and communities.