Indigenous Health Practice

Developed by First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) in collaboration with the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, the Certificate in Indigenous Health Practice deepens your understanding of Indigenous health perspectives and practices.

The certificate is ideal for:

• Students in allied health programs such as Social Work and Kinesiology
• Students in professional health programs including medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, and physical therapy
• Practicing health professionals who want to strengthen their ability to serve Indigenous communities

By completing this certification, you will be prepared to practice effectively in health settings with Indigenous populations.

What is the Certificate in Indigenous Health Practice?

The Certificate in Indigenous Health Practice gives you a strong foundation in Indigenous perspectives on health and well-being. You'll explore how health systems are structured, learn about current issues affecting Indigenous communities, and study topics like mental health, nutrition, environmental health, and ethics.

You’ll also gain hands-on experience through a 12-week community placement in an Indigenous community or organization. With the support of a mentor and seminar discussions, you’ll apply your learning in real-world settings, build meaningful connections, and strengthen your understanding of Indigenous health practices.

Courses you will take as part of this program include:

INHS 100 - Introduction to Indigenous Health Studies I

Introduction to health science emphasizing Indigenous perspectives. Topics: history of health and health care, theories of health, personal health, consumerism, interpreting health information and statistics, health careers.

INHS 101 – Introduction to Indigenous Health Studies II

Introduction to health science emphasizing Indigenous perspectives. Topics: organization of health services, mental health, nutrition, fitness, sexuality, human relationships, substance abuse, communicable and chronic disease, aging, environmental health, ethical issues.

INHS 210 - Contemporary Issues in Indigenous Health

An in-depth examination of contemporary issues in Indigenous health including community planning, major health issues, government policy, Indigenous control of health care, human resource development, and alternative models of delivery.

INHS 360 - Community Placement Practicum

Students will be given the opportunity to apply their knowledge by undertaking a community placement in an Indigenous community or agency to be agreed upon between the student and community placement coordinator. The community placement will be undertaken by the student under supervision of a mentor/host professional (Indigenous community or agency) and the community placement coordinator. The placement is a minimum of 12 weeks full time. This component is Pass/Fail, and must be taken concurrently with INHS 365 (Community Placement Seminar). 

INGS 365 - Community Placement Seminar

This course provides the student with the opportunity to use their knowledge in skill in a professional setting. Further, students will learn about Indigenous community-based health service environments. Seminar-based discussions will help students critically analyse their experiences, appreciate and examine various perspectives, and understand community/agency health processes.