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Humanities & Culture

Indigenous Studies Program

Your University of Toronto degree doesn’t train you for one career, it prepares you for many careers.

Indigenous Studies graduates are interdisciplinary critical thinkers who have a rigorous and respectful understanding of Indigenous peoples' languages, cultures, histories, politics, arts and intellectual traditions. Knowledge and research methodologies of Indigenous Studies open gateways to different academic disciplines and professions. Employers value the research skills and the interdisciplinary perspective learned through the Indigenous Studies program.

What do employers value about Indigenous Studies Program graduates?

Within two years of graduation, 83% of graduates who are in the labour market are employed with a median salary of $48,176/year upon entering the workforce. 60% pursue further post-secondary studies. (Source: StatsCan Career Tool)

your degree after graduation

University of Toronto Indigenous Studies alumni most frequently apply their communication and critical thinking skills in these industries:

  • Education
  • Community and Social Services
  • Research
  • Business Development
  • Media and Communication
  • Arts and Design
  • Consulting
  • Healthcare Services
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Operations

graduate or professional school

An Indigenous Studies degree equips students with the research and analysis skills for a variety of academic next steps, including graduate programs in:

  • Adult Education
  • Community Development
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology 
  • Community Health
  • Education
  • Environmental Studies
  • Forest Conservation
  • Global Affairs
  • Health Sciences
  • Geography
  • Law
  • Library Science
  • Literature
  • Linguistics
  • Medicine
  • Political Science 
  • Social Work

exploring opportunities while you're a student

Learn About yourself

Register for the Job Shadowing Program to connect with professionals in your career area of interest. During a half or full day job shadowing placement, you’ll begin to clarify your goals and better understand your career options.

Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in a variety of occupations within one organization.

Find a Work-Study Position and gain paid, on-campus positions that provide you with an opportunity to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills and explore how your academic studies translate to career possibilities.

Attend a career workshop or small group conversation to explore career possibilities, understand your skills, and plan for your career or further education. Visit clnx.utoronto.ca for more information.

Connect with Alumni

The Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) program provides opportunities for students and recent graduates, to meet and mingle with alumni, faculty, staff and fellow students from their department or academic unit. Alumni who volunteer for b2B Industry Nights, Career Panels, Speed Networking events and Mentorship Meals, offer guidance, career advice and encouragement to A&S students. By taking part in b2B, students will learn about the array of career possibilities available to them as A&S degree recipients. 

Explore Your Options

While you’re a student, get the support and make the connections you need to transition into your dream career.

Talk to your professors to better understand and prioritize your opportunities in the context of your discipline.

Enrol in the Community-Engaged Learning Course (INS460H1) to design a research project and gain hands-on experience.

In your third or final year, take independent courses to pursue a research topic that interests you.

Attend social and academic events organized by the Indigenous Studies Students’ Union.