Indigenous Studies

Stó:lõ Studies certificate

The Stó:lõ Studies certificate program is open to all learners. Its collective course content is focused on the local First Nations people, and is grounded in accurate, relevant historical background. The collective of courses prepare learners, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, with a core of knowledge that is integral to the local people and to the traditional territory in which UFV is located. Learning experiences, which foster deeper understanding of the cultural interdependence and mutual appreciation of Aboriginal and mainstream societies, will contribute significantly to the practices of professionals and service providers, as well as researchers and others. Students who complete the certificate program have an opportunity to maintain their connection to the local First Nation communities for future research projects.

The Stó:lõ, like many First Nations, have an oral tradition. It is only the last generation that has begun to document local traditions and stories. The Stó:lõ Studies certificate will encourage First Nation students to work with their communities to begin documenting local history and stories. This will also support the development of much needed written resources.

As a professional development program, this certificate provides opportunities to gain cultural competencies as students immerse themselves in experiences that meld Halq'eméylem language and Stó:lõ background. The courses examine the history, culture, beliefs, and protocol of the Fraser Valley First Nations communities. Students gain cultural competencies by engaging in meaningful dialogue and traditional experiences.

Entrance requirements

The Stó:lõ Studies certificate will require a B.C. secondary school graduation or equivalent or minimum of 19 years of age before the first day of classes.

This certificate is intended for students who wish to complete it at the same time as they pursue another program. Students must ensure that they meet course prerequisites.

Applicants must meet the Entry-level English language proficiency requirement. For details on how this requirement may be met, see the English language proficiency requirement section of the calendar.

How to apply

Students wising to apply for the Stó:lõ Studies certificate should contact the Indigenous Student Centre.

Dates and locations

A student can complete the Stó:lõ Studies certificate in four semesters. Part-time study is also an option. Additionally, the certificate can be completed as a matter of course while completing a Bachelor degree.

Courses may be offered in the evening and are currently offered throughout the timetable in both Abbotsford and Chilliwack.

Residency requirement

A minimum of 25% of the credits required for the certificate must be completed at UFV.

Undergraduate continuance

Students enrolled in undergraduate courses (courses numbered 100 or above) must maintain an undergraduate Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of at least 2.00 to remain enrolled in Good Academic Standing at UFV. Students in Good Academic Standing will have no registration limits placed on them. Failure to meet the minimum CGPA requirement will result in restrictions on registration and may eventually lead to academic suspension from undergraduate studies at UFV. Students on Academic Warning or Academic Probation are limited to registering in 10 credits. For further details, see the Academic standing and undergraduate continuance section of the academic calendar. Academic standing is governed by UFV’s Undergraduate Continuance policy (92).

Graduation

Upon completion of the mandated 10 courses, with a program GPA of 2.0, students may apply for the Stó:lõ Studies certificate.

Transferability

The Stó:lõ Studies certificate has been designed to include several courses whose credits are transferable into diploma and bachelor programs offered at UFV. Students who come to UFV specifically to complete this certificate may choose to continue their studies in Education, Social Work, and/or General Studies at UFV.

24 credits are directly transferable to UFV's Aboriginal Culture and Language Support diploma for graduates wanting to work in an Aboriginal education setting. Graduates will also be able to transfer 12 credits toward UFV's Social Services diploma - First Nations option.

Those wishing to become certified Halq'eméylem teachers are able to transfer 18 credits toward the 90-credit Developmental Standard Term Certificate (DSTC) program at Simon Fraser University.

Fees and additional costs

See the Fees and Other Costs section.

Financial aid

The Indigenous Student Centre has details regarding access to financial support for Aboriginal students. Students are also encouraged to contact the UFV Financial Aid and Awards office for further information on scholarships and bursaries.

Program outline

Semester I (Fall): 6 credits

Semester II (Winter): 9 credits

Semester III (Fall): 6 credits

Semester IV (Winter): 6 credits

Electives (choose one of the following): 3 credits

Note 1: HALQ 100 (6 credits) may be used in place of HALQ 101 and 102

Note 2: HALQ 200 (6 credits) may be used in place of HALQ 201 and 202

Course listings

For complete details on courses see the course descriptions section.