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Honours Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Indigenous Studies allows students to expand their knowledge and understanding of Indigenous cultures, while developing professional skills to work with Indigenous communities.

This four-year degree focuses on the intellectual and cultural traditions of Indigenous Peoples in the areas of history, language, medicine, health and wellness, creative arts, literature, economy, activism, community and political dynamics, peacebuilding, spirituality and traditional ecological knowledge.

The degree also examines a wide range of topics including history, health, literature, land claims, environment and self-determination.

This program prepares students for success in a variety of fields such as education, outreach, advocacy, policy and community development.

Did you know that you can combine Honours degrees?

A combined honours degree provides a unique and enriched academic experience, allowing students to pursue two disciplines simultaneously. This interdisciplinary approach enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, creating well-rounded graduates with expertise in multiple fields, providing you with a competitive edge in the job market.

Popular combinations programs include: Political Science and Communications. If you have specific questions or need more information about combining honours degrees, feel free to ask!

Program Details

Typical Entry Term

Fall (September)

Program Options

Full-time or part-time

Program Length

Four years (full-time)

Program Format

Course-based

Expandable List

Completion of any Level I program, with a Grade Point Average of at least 5.0 (C) and an average of 5.0 (C) in INDIG ST 1A03, INDIGST 1AA3, or 1B03* (*formerly RECONCIL 1A03).

Learn more about Level II Selection

The Academic Calendar lists course requirements and minimum grade requirements for entry to and continuance in the Honours BA Indigenous Studies.

View the Academic Calendar

Sample Courses By Year (Not All Required)

Level I Courses

  • INDIGST 1A03: Introduction to Indigenous Studies
  • INDIGST 1AA3: Introduction to Contemporary Indigenous Studies
  • INDIGST 1B03: Reconciling What? Indigenous Relations in Canada

Level II Courses

  • INDIGST 2A03: Indigenous Peoples’ Spirituality
  • INDIGST 2H03: Indigenous Celebrity
  • INDIGST 2K03: Indigenous Futurisms and Wonderworks

Level III Courses

  • INDIGST 3EE3: Indigenous Representations in Film
  • INDIGST 3Q03: Histories of Indigenous Sport and Recreation
  • INDIGST 3VV3: The Indian Act: A Social Problem

Level IV Courses

  • INDIGST 4J03: Indigenous Erotics
  • INDIGST 4RI3: Colonialism and Resistance in Representations of Indigenous Womanhood
  • INDIGST 4G03: Indigenous Genocide

Honours BA in Indigenous Studies graduates enjoy success beyond the classroom

Based on aggregated Social Sciences data from the Ontario University Graduate Survey from 2017-2021.

70% Employed in 6 months
12% Graduates pursuing additional schooling

Customize Your Studies

Our flexible degrees let you study your way.

Study Abroad STUDY ABROAD

Take your studies beyond Canada. McMaster has exchange agreements with 100+ universities.

Internships Learn More

Apply to an internship and begin building your professional network.

Student Research Learn More

Apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award and get paid to conduct research.

Minors View Minors

Add a minor to your studies to differentiate yourself in the workplace.

Questions about the Honours BA in Indigenous Studies?

Contact Us

Undergraduate Studies and General Inquiries
Enrolment, course permissions, general inquiries
Email: indigenous.admin@mcmaster.ca

Academic Advising Office
Goals, program changes, academic support
Email:socscfac@mcmaster.ca
Phone: (905) 525-9140 ext. 23613

Office Location

Indigenous Studies Department
L.R. Wilson Hall (LRW), 1811
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
L8S 4M4

Campus Map & Driving Directions

Office Hours

Monday – Friday:
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM