INDIGENOUS STUDENT GUIDE EDUCATION FOR A COMPLEX WORLD.
Support Services and Program Highlights
The British Columbia Institute of Technology acknowledges that our main campus in Burnaby is located on the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish Nations of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), and xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam).
THE SYMBOL OF OUR INDIGENOUS VISION
For some Northwest Coast First Nations, a Copper—a traditional copper shield—symbolizes wealth and power. Knowledge is power. A Copper gains value the more it changes hands and is broken and put back together. Life can be challenging, but much like a Copper, our students build strength as they gain knowledge and overcome challenges. That is why we chose the Copper to symbolize the Indigenous Vision.
The Indigenous Vision provides a focal point for BCIT’s commitment to the enrolment and success of Indigenous learners. By embracing Truth and Reconciliation and promoting Indigenization throughout the BCIT community, we will honour Indigenous people, knowledge, and culture, while preparing learners for success in a complex world through an education that is complete and relevant.
Learn more at bcit.ca/indigenous-vision
PROGRAMS WITH DESIGNATED INDIGENOUS SEATING
BCIT is committed to the recruitment and retention of Indigenous students. To facilitate this, designated Indigenous admissions processes have been implemented in the programs listed below:
School of Construction and the Environment
Master’s Degree
Master of Science in Ecological Restoration
School of Health Sciences
Diagnostic and Advanced Practice Programs
Advanced Certificates
Cardiac Sciences
∆ Cardiac Rhythm Device Technology option
∆ Cardiovascular Perfusion option
∆ Cardiovascular Technology option
∆ Electrophysiology Technology option
Diplomas
Diagnostic Medical Sonography—
General and Cardiac Sonography option
Diagnostic Medical Sonography—
General Sonography option
Electroneurophysiology
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Medical Radiography
Nuclear Medicine
Advanced Diploma
Diagnostic Medical Sonography—Cardiac option
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy
Laboratory and Allied Health Programs
Diplomas
Biomedical Engineering Technology
Food Processing, Safety, and Quality
Medical Laboratory Science
Occupational Health and Safety Degree
Bachelor of Environmental Public Health
Nursing Program
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
School of Transportation
Associate Certificate
Bridge Watch Rating
PROGRAMS WITH PREFERRED INDIGENOUS CANDIDACY
In select competitive-entry programs, Indigenous applicants are considered preferred candidates at the program deadline. These programs include:
School of Computing and Academic Studies Diplomas
Computer Information Technology
Computer Systems Technology
Full-Stack Web Development
Bachelor’s Degrees
Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science Programs
∆ Database option
∆ Games Development option
∆ Human Computer Interface option
∆ Network Security Administration option
∆ Network Security Applications Development option
∆ Wireless and Mobile Applications Development option
Master’s Degree
Master of Science in Applied Computing
MICROCREDENTIALS
School of Construction and the Environment Diploma
Architectural and Building Technology
Microcredentials are short, for-credit, modular programs or courses that offer new skills and knowledge to help students maximize opportunity. Requiring far less time commitment than other programs, microcredentials provide an efficient way for students to advance their careers and build their resumes. Focused, affordable, and flexible, microcredentials can also be combined towards credit for more comprehensive programs.
CHOOSE YOUR PROGRAM
To see a full listing of programs offered at BCIT, visit bcit.ca/study
SUPPORT SERVICES FOR INDIGENOUS STUDENTS
The Indigenous Initiatives team offers support services that are culturally appropriate to First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students.
The Indigenous Gathering Place
Mi Chap Tukw, the BCIT Indigenous Gathering place, is a home away from home for students, families, and staff.
Located on the Burnaby Campus, Mi Chap Tukw offers access to amenities including a computer lounge, study area, and fully functional kitchen. Through cultural and educational activities, Mi Chap Tukw creates a sense of belonging for Indigenous students.
Elders on Campus
Elders are the keepers of Indigenous knowledge and encourage and promote understanding and respect for Indigenous perspectives, culture, and values across BCIT campuses and beyond. Students can schedule appointments with Elders.
Scholarships and financial aid
A wide range of scholarships, awards, bursaries, and financial aid is available to Indigenous students to apply for at BCIT.
Indigenous student champions
Indigenous student champions help fellow Indigenous students with the first-year transition at BCIT. They offer answers about programs and life at BCIT, providing opportunities to network and meet new people.
Student housing
BCIT offers priority housing options for Indigenous students for both short-term stays (under 12 weeks) and long-term stays (over 12 weeks). By self-declaring their Indigenous status on the housing application, students will automatically notify the housing team of their priority status.
Advisors
Advisors are available to assist students with referrals, academic needs, and financial applications. Advisors can also connect students with Elders on campus.
Cultural workshops
Cultural workshops are hosted by the Indigenous Initiatives team and are open to staff, faculty, and students at BCIT. Workshops include basket weaving, drum making, wool weaving, beading, and more. These workshops are often hosted in association with significant days of the year: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Indigenous Peoples Day, etc.
Indigenous Garden
The Indigenous Garden at Burnaby Campus provides a dedicated area to cultivate a range of Indigenous medicines and plants and is also built to be a peaceful green space for students and staff to enjoy.
Peer Tutor 1:1 referrals
Peer tutoring is an essential service at BCIT to help students understand course concepts and develop learning skills in difficult academic subjects. Learning Commons covers costs if Indigenous Initiatives refers students directly.
Indigenous Emergency Assistance Fund (IEAF)
Indigenous post-secondary students experiencing financial pressures can apply for the IEAF. Students who access emergency funding do not have to repay it.
CONNECT WITH US
BCIT’s Indigenous Initiatives team is here to support you and keep you informed.
Office hours
8:30 am–4:30 pm Monday to Friday (excluding statutory holidays)
General contact information
604.432.8474 gathering_place@bcit.ca
Office location
British Columbia Institute of Technology 3700 Willingdon Ave Burnaby, BC V5G 3H2
Building SW01, Room 1521
Campus tours
bcit.ca/tours
Join us for a guided in-person tour of our Burnaby Campus. Led by a Student Ambassador, you’ll explore the campus and get an inside scoop on both the academic and social sides of life at BCIT.
Program Advising
bcit.ca/advising
Have questions? BCIT program advisors are available by phone, email, drop-in, or virtual appointment.
Cover photo: Indigenous Student Champions share their experiences and encouragement during a panel at the Indigenous Youth Gathering.