General Arts & Science Certificate - Indigenous Specialization (GAIN)

Ontario College Certificate | 2 semesters | Barrydowne Campus

The General Arts & Science – Indigenous Specialization Program is a great choice for anyone who would like to develop their academic and workplace skills in a program that supports holistic wellness and Indigenous perspectives, knowledges, and worldviews. Students learn from the land, from each other, from the Ancestors, and from themselves, always supported by experienced and trustworthy faculty and staff.

Together we develop our digital, math, and language literacies. Courses are taught in English, with additional options to study Anishinabemowin (Ojibwe) or Nehiyawemowin (Cree) starting at a beginner level. Focus on your own culture, heritage, and overall well-being while earning credits toward additional postsecondary diploma programs. Gain confidence in your abilities and explore your future options in a supportive environment.

Program Highlights

• 1 year – 2 semesters

• Choose between Ojibway and Cree language courses

• Workplace entry-level English course

• Learn skills required to be successful in other college programs

• Explore career options through a Career Development course

• Practice and learn about your own culture and heritage

• Earn General Education credits that can be transferred towards other college programs

Learning Opportunities

• Land-based educational opportunities when available

Quick Links

How to Apply

General Studies

Admission Requirements

For graduates of the new curriculum (OSS): Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent or mature student status, including:

• Any grade 12 English - (E) Workplace, (C) College, (U) University

General Educational Development (GED) is applicable. Depending on test scores, Accuplacer English Assessment may be required. Please speak to the Program Coordinator for more information. 

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Program Delivery

2023-2024

This program will be delivered in the following terms:

Fall Term Start

1. SEMESTER 1 Fall 2023
2. SEMESTER 2 Winter 2024

Winter Term Start

1. SEMESTER 1 Winter 2024
2. SEMESTER 2 Spring 2024

For specific term start/end dates and other key dates/deadlines, please see the Academic Schedule on our website.

Program of Study for 2023-24 Academic Year 

Plan of Study Grid

Semester 1		Credits
ENG 1211	Essentials of College English	4
MTH 1126	Essentials of Mathematics	4
IND 1005	Culture, Tradition and Heritage	3
IND 1103	Wellness and the Good Life	3
IND 1002	Indigenous Learning Strategies	2
IND 1102 or IND 1101	Anishnaabemowin or Nehiyawemowin	3
One General Education course. 1		3
	Credits	22
Semester 2
ENG 1505	Fundamentals of College Writing	4
MTH 1127	Fundamentals of Mathematics	4
IND 1006	Culture, Tradition & Heritage II	3
IND 1203	Wellness and the Good Life II	3
LSC 1120	Making Career Decisions	2
IND 1202 or IND 1201	Anishnaabemowin II or Nehiyawemowin II	3
One General Education course. 1		3
	Credits	22
	Total Credits	44

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For more information regarding General Education courses, click here.

Fees

Tuition and Ancillary Fees

Please see our fees page for the breakdown of tuition and mandatory ancillary fees by program and semester for both domestic and international students.

The cost of books and supplies for this program is under review. This is the best information available at the time of publishing to the website and is subject to change.

Graduate Options

Employment and Academic Opportunities

There are a number of benefits to obtaining a General Arts and Science - Indigenous Specialization Certificate at Cambrian College. 

• Gain cultural awareness and appreciation, build confidence, and develop success strategies
• Develop and showcase highly sought after employability skills
• Experience a robust curricula that is holistic and culturally informed, preparing graduates to navigate contemporary employment opportunities while maintaining and fostering vital cultural connections and traditional wellness practices

College/University Degree Opportunities

Graduates from this program may continue their studies at college/university and may receive credit for their prior College education.

Refer to College/University Agreements for further information.