Indigenous Environmental Studies & Sciences Diploma (YKDFN Dechita Naowo)
Program Overview
The Indigenous Environmental Studies & Sciences Diploma combines Dene knowledge and principles with Western science. It prepares students for careers in environmental management, policy development, education, and research. The program integrates experiential learning and credits can be transferred to a Bachelor's degree in IESS or other disciplines. It is delivered in partnership with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, making it a unique collaboration between an Indigenous community and a university.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Indigenous Environmental Studies & Sciences Diploma program is offered jointly by Trent University's School of the Environment and the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies. This diploma program, developed in partnership with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, integrates Dene ways of knowing and being into the curriculum. Courses cover Dene land use protocols, Dene land stewardship practices, and traditional Dene land navigation skills. The program provides a pathway to the Indigenous Environmental Studies/Sciences degree program.
Outline:
The program requires 10.0 credits to complete, divided into three categories:
- IESS (Indigenous Environmental Studies & Sciences) Credits (3.0):
- IESS 1001H Foundations in Indigenous Environmental Studies and Science
- IESS 2601Y Indigenous Knowledge Systems and the Natural Environment
- IESS 3631H Issues in Indigenous Environmental Studies
- IESS 3634H Introduction to Indigenous Food Systems
- IESS 4630H Indigenous Environmental Research Protocols and Ethics
- INDG (Indigenous Studies) Credits (5.5):
- INDG 1001H The Foundation for Reconciliation
- INDG 1002H Foundations of Modern Indigenous Life
- INDG 1011H Foundations of Indigenous Learning: Writing and Reading
- INDG 1012H Foundations of Indigenous Learning: Research and Knowledge Communication
- INDG 1500H Foundations of Indigenous Community Development
- INDG 1510H Foundations of Indigenous Community Economic Development
- INDG 2100Y Introduction to Indigenous Knowledge
- INDG 2800Y Introduction to Nishinaabemowin
- INDG 4050H Alliances: Indigenous/Non-Indigenous Relationships for Justice
- ERSC (Environmental Science) Credits (1.5):
- ERSC 1010H Environmental Science and Sustainability
- ERSC 1020H Cases in Environment and Sustainability
- ERSC 2240H Ecological Assessment for Natural Resource Management
Careers:
The program prepares students for careers such as:
- Indigenous or Non-Indigenous Government Policy Specialist
- Environmental Educator
- Natural Resource Manager or Researcher
- Indigenous Corporate Liaison Officer
- Consultant
- Teacher
- Indigenous/Private Sector Liaison
- Park Warden
- Environmental Activist
Other:
- The program is delivered in the Northwest Territories.
- The program provides opportunities for experiential learning grounded in Yellowknives Dene First Nations Culture.
- The diploma credits can be transferred to the IESS B.A or B.Sc. program, or a general B.A. or B.Sc. degree program.
- This is Trent University's first locally delivered program with a Northern First Nation.
Trent University
Overview:
Trent University is a public university located in Peterborough and Durham, Ontario, Canada. It is recognized as Ontario's top undergraduate university, known for its personalized learning experience and commitment to fostering global citizens. Trent University offers a transformative learning environment that prepares students for leadership and career success.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Trent University offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community. Students have access to a wide range of opportunities to get involved, gain career experience, and make lifelong connections. The university boasts picturesque natural environments at both its Peterborough and Durham campuses, providing a unique and engaging learning experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-ranked undergraduate university in Ontario:
Trent University consistently ranks highly for its overall reputation and academic excellence.High graduate employment rate:
95% of Trent graduates are employed within two years of graduation.Personalized learning experience:
The university emphasizes small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.Strong focus on global citizenship:
Trent University prepares students to be responsible and engaged citizens of the world, equipped to address global challenges.Academic Programs:
Trent University offers over 100 academic programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly known for its strengths in the following areas:
Environmental Studies:
Trent University is a leader in environmental research and education, with a strong focus on sustainability and conservation.Social Sciences and Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in areas such as history, political science, psychology, and sociology.Arts and Culture:
Trent University has a strong arts and culture scene, with a vibrant theatre program, music ensembles, and visual arts studios.Other:
Trent University also offers online learning options, allowing students to access over 100 courses year-round. The university is committed to inclusivity and diversity, with initiatives such as the installation of an ablution station for the Muslim community on campus.
Entry Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
- Program Requirements:
- Students apply directly to the Yellowknives Dene First Nation Dechįta Nàowo Post-Secondary Education Department with the recommendation for admission made to Trent University.
- To qualify, students must have successfully completed the equivalent of Ontario Grade 12 or qualify as a mature student.
