Georgian, Trent announce new pathway to Indigenous B.Ed. program

Barrie, ON (Dec 22, 2016)–Georgian College and Trent University have signed an agreement that provides pathways for graduates of two Georgian programs Trent’s new Indigenous Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program. The Indigenous Bachelor of Education is a unique, new five-year concurrent degree that puts Aboriginal knowledge and perspectives at the forefront of teacher training.

“Through this partnership with Trent University, we are able to offer our Indigenous students a groundbreaking opportunity to fast-track into this specialized Bachelor of Education program,” said Maryann Fifield, Associate Vice President Academic, Centre for Teaching Learning and Academic Excellence.

Eligible graduates of two Georgian diploma programs – Anishnaabemowin Language Programming and Indigenous Community and Social Development – will be given advanced standing in the new Indigenous B.Ed. program at Trent, which welcomes its first group of students in fall 2016.

Trent will grant successful candidates five credits toward the 25-credit, five-year degree program. Students applying for admission to the Indigenous B.Ed. program will be required to self-identify as First Nations, Métis or Inuit.

Trent’s new Indigenous Bachelor of Education will put graduates of the new program in a unique position to teach non-Indigenous students, and to further their understanding of Indigenous issues. Offered in partnership by Trent’s School of Education and Professional Learning and the department of Indigenous Studies, the program is the first of its kind in North America.

Anishnaabemowin Language Programming is a two-year diploma program that focuses on creating functionality in the Anishnaabemowin language and preparing students to design, develop and implement community language programs in Aboriginal communities and organizations.

Indigenous Community and Social Development is a two-year diploma program that focuses on the planning, evaluation and administration of social/health care services within Indigenous communities.