Careers with a First Peoples studies degree
Studying First Peoples Studies means learning from Indigenous perspectives while exploring the histories, cultures and contemporary realities of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities within Quebec and across Canada.
What can I do with my degree? This program prepares you for careers in education, policy, advocacy, cultural preservation, media and storytelling.
Skills you'll develop
Your degree builds more than academic knowledge, it shapes the way you think, communicate and collaborate. Throughout your studies, you'll develop key skills for your career, such as:
Functional knowledge:
Explore Indigenous worldviews through storytelling, oral traditions and lived knowledge systems
Communication:
Use storytelling and oral history to share knowledge and lived experiences
Management and organization:
Organize events and cultural initiatives with cultural respect and community purpose
Teamwork:
Collaborate with others by listening deeply, demonstrating empathy and valuing diverse perspectives
Critical thinking and problem solving:
Challenge dominant narratives and unpack complex issues through an Indigenous and decolonial lens
As a Concordia student, you will develop valuable skills to bring to any career opportunity.
Beyond the classroom: Build your career path
Getting involved outside of the classroom can help you discover your interests, develop new skills and build a network of peers and professionals in your field.
First year
- Get support organizing your busy schedule at the Time Management Clinic.
- Join a club or participate in an extracurricular activity that matches your interests.
- Improve your language fluency in French or English through conversation practice.
- Connect with Career Counselling & Education Transitions to plan your career path.
- Browse the CAPS online job bank for opportunities to gain work experience.
Middle years
- Enrich your global perspective by studying abroad for an academic term.
- Volunteer with an organization for a cause you care about.
- Help make campus greener at Concordia.
- Join the community-based internship program to drive meaningful change while building professional skills.
- Get paid work experience and tackle real-world challenges with District 3’s 12-week summer residency program.
Final year
- Explore courses in First People Studies with an experiential learning component.
- Build confidence in class presentations and discussions with FutureBound’s storytelling and public speaking series.
- Network with potential employers at recruitment events and career fairs.
Specialize your studies
Minors & elective groups
You can customize your degree by adding a minor or elective group. Popular choices with this program include:
Graduate studies and certifications
Graduate studies can help you specialize in a subject you love, engage in meaningful research or open doors to new career paths. Certifications are a great way to build new skills that complement your degree.
Talk to your professors or a career counsellor at the Student Success Centre to find programs that fit your goals.
Start exploring:
- Universitystudy.ca: A data base of graduate programs in Canada
- Concordia’s School of Graduate Studies: Graduate programs offered at Concordia
- Graduate funding and awards: Scholarships and awards, research and teaching assistantships, and other financial supports for Concordia graduate students
- Concordia Continuing Education: Courses, workshops and programs to advance your career
Career exploration resources
Professional associations
Access professional associations to explore opportunities and expand your network.
Job Banks
Career counselling & advising
Want tailored career advice? Book an appointment with one of our career counsellors or career advisors.
Start your job search
Career Advising and Professional Success (CAPS) can help you find opportunities and support you with networking, applications and interviews.
