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Other University Programs & Transfer Options

Arts One—First Nations

The Program

Arts One—First Nations is a multi-disciplinary learning community for first-year university students. The program is intended for students who are interested in the intersection and interaction between First Nations and western cultures within a broad introduction to interdisciplinary study in the Humanities and Social Sciences. Enrolment in the program is managed to ensure that First Nations students comprise at least two-thirds of the class.

Students will study the history and effects of interaction between the First Nations of North America and those who came to this land from Europe. The program curriculum incorporates concepts of First Nations and Western European governance, community and culture. Students will explore such questions as: What happens when different cultures collide? How do people use myth, ceremony, writing, and story-telling to understand family, spirituality, and economics?

The curriculum for the Arts One—First Nations program is completely integrated and is taught by a team of instructors, the majority of whom are of First Nations ancestry. Much of the teaching takes place in small seminars. First Nations leaders and elders are regular participants in the program.

Arts One—First Nations is designed to provide an integrated introduction to the Humanities and Social Sciences. The program is compatible with a wide variety of career objectives and is suitable for most students, except those planning to go on to some science and engineering degrees.

Students combine the 12 credits of Arts One—First Nations (FNAT 101/102) with 6 credits of English and 12 credits of electives (4 courses) to complete their first year (30 credits) of university study.

A range of support services is available and has been designed to foster academic success in an atmosphere that is culturally supportive for First Nations students.

For further information, please contact the First Nations Studies department, 250-740-6194.

A free information session for prospective students is usually held in early spring. Check with the Advising Centre for more details, 250-740-6410, or visit viu.ca/infosessions.

Admission Requirements

Note on Admission

  • Enrolment in this program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September and applications are accepted between November 15 and March 31. For further information regarding late applications, program contacts, and scheduled information sessions check the Program Availability List.

Updated July 22, 2010