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Mandatory requirements
To apply for this program, you must self-identify as an Indigenous Person (Status/Non-Status First Nation, Metis or Inuit.)
Overview
Our Indigenous Pathways Program offers a series of courses and experiences to ease your transition into further study at SAIT or other post-secondary schools.
This three-semester, 12-month program begins at the Grade 9 level and ends with your completion of Grade 11 and 12 courses.
You will experience a blend of academic courses, cultural activities and post-secondary readiness sessions in a welcoming and supportive environment. You will engage with like-minded Indigenous learners who share your commitment to pursuing post-secondary education and a new career.
Our program team partners with you to support your academic, cultural and personal success. From program applications to funding applications to connecting you with services and supports, we will walk alongside you throughout your learning journey.
Upon successful completion of the program, you will:
- meet the minimum Math and English requirements for entry into many SAIT programs and some programs at other post-secondary schools
- know how to access services and support in post-secondary school to help you achieve your goals.
Supports and services
A dedicated student advisor will act as your personal coach. They will be available to support you throughout this program with any challenges you may experience. They will also connect you with services supporting your success.
You will receive mentorship and insight from Elders and knowledge-keepers. You will engage in cultural activities with those in your program.
Finally, you will have access to all the services SAIT has to offer, including our recreation facilities, learning support services, employment centre sessions and counselling. A transit pass is included as part of your tuition funding in the second and third semesters of the program.
Courses
This program runs from September 3, 2024, to August 15, 2025 (45 weeks).
You must be able to commit to and attend 20 hours of classes each week.
This is a general breakdown of the courses offered. There can be flexibility depending on each person's needs.
Cultural mentorship courses
Every semester, you'll also take cultural mentorship courses by participating in Indigenous coaching, advising and mentorship to support the application of learning strategies and personal skills, as well as Indigenous cultural practices (30 hours per semester).
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
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Develop the skills you need to balance your personal and academic life at SAIT (45 semester hours). |
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Gain practical skills in Windows file management, internet, e-mail, word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software (45 semester hours). |
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Cover the basics and prepare for further studies in mathematics. Topics include operations on whole and real numbers, fractions, decimals and more (90 semester hours). |
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Focus on writing sentences, paragraphs, emails and essays. Further develop your verbal and written communication skills by working with an Indigenous community to identify a research topic (90 semester hours). |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
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Develop a basic understanding of algebra, number systems, measurement, trigonometry, relations and functions and more (90 semester hours). |
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Explore different types of literature through primary and secondary research on a topic of interest related to an Indigenous community (90 semester hours). |
Choose one of:
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
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Develop the basic science and math skills you need to move on to higher level chemistry and physics courses. (90 semester hours) |
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Explore the biosphere, diversity of life, cell structure and function, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, as well as selected topics in human anatomy (90 semester hours). |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
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Dig deeper into algebra, trigonometry, relations and functions through learning about expressions and equations, trigonometric ratios and more (90 semester hours). |
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Build on your understanding of primary and secondary research and referencing through exploring a variety of literary and visual content. Analyze your research and present your findings to community members (90 semester hours). |
Choose one:
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
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Investigate the nervous and endocrine systems, human reproduction and development, molecular and classical genetics, cell division and populations and communities (90 semester hours). |
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Apply mathematical, scientific and laboratory standards for chemical measurement, elements and compounds. Learn about atomic theory and more (90 semester hours). |
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Explore dynamics, circular motion, work and energy, oscillatory motion and mechanical waves. Problem solve technological challenges (90 semester hours). |
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This exciting new elective is a diploma level Indigenous studies course. |
Admission requirements
You are eligible for this program if you:
• self-identify as an Indigenous Person (Status/Non-Status First Nation, Metis or Inuit)
• achieve a minimum of 60% on an English and math placement test
• complete a Letter of Introduction where you explain your career and educational goals and demonstrate that you are ready, willing and able to engage in this program.
If you do not meet the 60% pass requirement on the placement tests, you are able to meet the academic requirement by completing the 15 week Indigenous Foundations Program with final grades of 60% or higher. Applications close for Indigenous Foundations on February 23.
Available intakes
Applications are now closed for the 2024/25 academic year (beginning September 2024).
Costs
This program is eligible for Foundational Learning Assistance program funding, as well as University and College Entrance Preparation program (UCEP) funding.
We will help you apply for tuition and living allowance coverage for this program. Eligibility criteria will be provided during the information sessions.
Your booklist becomes available in late August.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Financial aid
Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.
Learn moreAdmission process
To apply for this program, you must follow these steps:
- Complete the expression of interest form.
- Attend an information session. In-person and online options are available. Sessions are available here. If there are no information sessions listed for Indigenous Pathways or Indigenous Foundations programs, please email natoysopoyiis@sait.ca.
- Complete the Math and English placement tests.
- Write and submit your letter of introduction.
If accepted to the program, support will be provided to assist you with applying for funding.
Placement tests
To demonstrate academic readiness for the courses that form part of the Indigenous Pathways Program, you must complete an English placement test and a math placement test.
You are expected to take these tests without using external resources, including calculators, the internet or another person. Placement testing takes place in Natoysopoyiis on Fridays. Please register for a testing time by emailing natoysopoyiis@sait.ca.
English test
The English placement test consists of multiple-choice questions on English comprehension, grammar and a written paragraph on a topic indicated in the test.
A passing mark of 60% must be obtained to fulfill English academic readiness for the program.
You'll have up to 120 minutes to complete the English test.
The level for this test is approximately Grade 9.
You only get one attempt to take this test.
Math test
The mathematics test consists of 20 to 25 multiple-choice questions, which must be done without a calculator.
A passing mark of 60% must be obtained to fulfill the mathematic academic readiness for the program.
You'll have up to 60 minutes to complete the mathematics test.
The level for this test is at approximately Grade 8.
You only get one attempt to take this test.
Study guides
We recommend downloading and using the study guides below before attempting the placement tests.
| Course | Educational equivalent | Placement Test Guide | Formula Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|
| MATH-100 | Math 9 | MATH-100 | N/A |
| COMN-180 | ELA 10-1 | COMN-180 | N/A |
If you do not meet the 60% pass requirements, you can complete the 15 week Indigenous Foundations Program.
Information sessions
Indigenous Pathways Program and Indigenous Foundations Program applicants must attend an information session as part of the admission process.
Prepare for a strong start in this program and get the details to decide your future path.
Our expert staff are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:
- What sets SAIT apart
- An introduction to the program and area of study
- Admission requirements
- Funding options
Contact us
Natoysopoyiis
Room NN108, Senator Burns Building, SAIT Main Campus
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Phone - 403.210.4028
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Email - natoysopoyiis@sait.ca
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Monday - Friday | 8 am - 4:30 pm (4 pm on Fridays)