Ts’‘Kel Indigenous Graduate Studies in Education

Ts’‘Kel, which means golden eagle in the Hal’qemeylem language, was originally established in 1984 as a program of study leading to a Master of Education in Administration. Ts’‘Kel students are engaged in interdisciplinary research on social and educational topics related to schooling, Aboriginal community development, and historical and theoretical work that has a direct relationship to First Nations health and welfare.

Ts’‘Kel is an Integrated program for advancing Aboriginal access and Indigenous content in education and across disciplines throughout UBC. Students do not apply to Ts’‘Kel, but to the department and a graduate program of their choice.

Ts’‘Kel facilitates Aboriginal participation and Indigenous perspectives in UBC master’s and doctoral programs through (1) a concentration of courses in First Nations/Indigenous education, and (2) research supervision from Indigenous faculty. Ts’‘Kel is primarily for Aboriginal students enrolled in the Faculty of Education; however, Aboriginal students from other faculties may complete the Ts’‘Kel concentration. Ts’‘Kel offers academic, social, cultural, and emotional support in collaboration with the First Nations House of Learning.

Concentration of Courses:
Students complete two core courses and two electives for the Ts’‘Kel concentration. The courses include:

• Core course, EDST 508a, Indigenous Inquiry and Methodology
• Core course, EADM 508b, Indigenous Epistemology and Methodology
• Two elective courses of First Nations/Indigenous content. These courses are chosen in consultation with the student’s supervisory committee.

Students must enroll in an existing graduate program in order to access Ts’‘Kel. Applicants do not apply to Ts’‘Kel, but make note of their background and desire to study and conduct research on Indigenous topics in their application letters to departments. Non-Indigenous students may take the Ts’‘Kel courses with instructor permission.