Indigenous students are welcomed to a learning environment that integrates Indigenous knowledge and worldviews and provides cultural support and enhanced support for academic success, including a cohort structure in core courses, a designated Indigenous Student Advisor, cultural workshops, leadership training, academic support sessions, and peer support. Students are provided with cultural support through the Writing Symbols Lodge and have access to faculty program advisors for advice regarding course electives in the faculty they wish to enter.
Students are required to attend regularly-scheduled weekly sessions in the Writing Symbols Lodge. These sessions help to build community among the cohort of ISAP students, enhance academic skills and knowledge, build effective study habits, and allow students to explore university study with Elders, mentors and peers.
Students register in required core courses as a cohort and take elective courses in their areas of interest up to a total of 12 units per term. Students who take a minimum of 9 units per term are considered full-time students and may qualify for student loans, as well as other sources of funding.
High school upgrading courses may be taken concurrently through Continuing Education at the University of Calgary or other adult learning institutions, as needed.
Program Requirements
Fall Term
Core Course 1: English 251 – Literature and Society
Core Course 2: Indigenous Studies 201 – Introduction to Indigenous Studies
Weekly sessions at Writing Symbols Lodge
Midterm meeting with ISAP advisor
Winter Term
Core Course 3: Indigenous Studies 397 - Topics in Canadian Indigenous Studies
Weekly sessions at Writing Symbols Lodge
Midterm meeting with ISAP advisor
For more information, contact the Writing Symbols Lodge at 403.220.6034 or email ISAP@ucalgary.ca
For details on ISAP admission requirements, see section A.5.6.3 Indigenous Student Access Program.
Academic Regulations