Program Overview
The Bachelor in Ininimowin (BII) is designed to build your capacity in Indigenous languages, allowing you to learn local histories, cultures, and worldviews directly through the language. The program creates a supportive pathway for you to begin your journey toward fluency—no previous language experience is required.
You will develop highly sought-after skills in language acquisition, communication, research, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This program is a vital step in connecting with Indigenous culture, implementing reconciliation in higher education, creating new learning opportunities, and empowering a new generation of specialized professionals and educators.
After successfully completing Year 1, you can choose to exit with a University Certificate in Ininimowin.
Expected Completion Time: 1 Year
After successfully completing Year 2 (60 credit hours), you can exit with a University Diploma in Ininimowin.
Expected Completion Time: 2 Years
The 3-year Bachelor’s degree provides an excellent foundation for entering professional programs at UCN and beyond, including Education, Social Work, Law, and Healthcare. It also prepares you for further studies in graduate programs.
To graduate with a Bachelor in Ininimowin degree, students must complete a minimum of 91 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0.
Expected Completion Time: 3 Years
Why Study Bachelor in Ininimowin at UCN?
- There is an urgent and growing demand for Indigenous language speakers in Manitoba and across Canada.
Career Outcomes and Community
Graduates of this program will be prepared to fill critical roles and become specialized recruits in a variety of sectors, including:
- Education: K-12 language teachers, curriculum developers, language and culture facilitators.
- Public Service: Translators, policy advisors, community liaisons in government and civic organizations.
- Health & Wellness: Interpreters, patient advocates, and cultural support workers in healthcare settings.
- Justice: Court interpreters, victim services advocates, and liaison officers.
- Child & Family Services: Social workers and support staff who can communicate with families in their first language.
Program Schedule
| Course Name |
|---|
| Introduction to Aboriginal Studies, Introduction to Cree Language |
| Course Name |
|---|
| Introduction to Cree Syllabics |
| Research Methods in Aboriginal and Northern Studies |
| Learning Cree Through Storytelling |
| Course Name |
|---|
| Oral History Methodology |
| Applied Linguistics and Field-Based Learning |
| Language on the Land |
| Advanced Language Skills Lab |
Admissions
Requirements
- Grade 12 graduate with a regular or mature high school diploma,
- with Language Arts (English) 40S, one credit, and
- Pre-calculus Mathematics 40S, Applied Mathematics 40S or Essential Mathematics 40S,
- Or equivalencies of above.
For more info on Mature Student and other Bachelor of Arts Admission Requirements (see page 30 of the 2025-2026 Academic Calendar) – Apply Now
Estimated Cost
Application Fee
- Domestic Student Application Fee: $50
- International Student Application Fee: $158
Important Dates and Deadlines
Program Start Date
Program End Date
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The program is designed to implement reconciliation in higher education by increasing Indigenous language proficiency, supporting Indigenous Language Recovery, and creating pathways for Indigenous students to become educators and professionals in various sectors.
No, students can enter the program without any prior language experience. Language skills will be developed and nurtured throughout the program.
