The Degree of Master of Education with a specialization in Indigenous Peoples Education (Educational Policy Studies) [Graduate]

Grounded in the traditions of the Aboriginal peoples of Alberta, the international and interdisciplinary focus of this specialization attracts students from a variety of disciplines and locations. This specialization combines the conventional parameters and standards of university education with the collective efforts of Indigenous students, scholars, and Elders.

Its aim is to facilitate and support individuals whose work is grounded in the values, integrity, and knowledge systems of Indigenous peoples locally and globally. Cultural activities include orientation week-ends, sharing circles, Elders support and ceremony.

Program Requirements

In addition to the department core courses (★6), students must complete specialization core courses and optional courses for a total of ★33 for course-based programs, or ★24 for thesis-based programs.

Department core courses (★6)

Specialization core courses (★9 are required)

Specialization electives options

EDPS 536 - Critical Pedagogy and Transformative Practices in Indigenous Education
EDPS 636 - Indigenous Ontologies in the Global Context
EDPS 601 - Cree Language Course

Options/Electives:

500-level and above courses taken across the department or faculty, chosen in consultation with the supervisor or program advisor.
Students may undertake a supervised individual study course if permitted by their specialization program and only with prior approval by their advisor/supervisor and the Graduate Coordinator. Permission will not be granted if the proposed content is available through regular course offerings.

Course-based Programs:

EDPS 900 - Directed Research Project

Thesis-based Program:

Registration in 900-level THES. All students in a thesis-based Master of Education shall present a thesis embodying the results of their research on a topic approved by their supervisor.

Ethics Requirement

Students in both the course-based and thesis-based Master of Education with a specialization in Indigenous Peoples Education fulfill the FGSR Academic Integrity and Ethics Training Requirement through successful completion of EDPS 581 and of the FGSR Graduate Ethics Training course.

Professional Development Requirement

Students in both the course-based and thesis-based Master of Education with a specialization in Indigenous Peoples Education fulfill the FGSR Professional Development Requirement through their program.

Length of Program

There is no residence requirement for the Master of Education program.

The maximum time to complete the course-based MEd program as set by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research is six years.

The maximum time to complete the thesis-based MEd program as set by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research is four years.