Indigenous Student Services

NorQuest College provides learners with a complete education that attempts to balance strong academic foundations with Indigenous culture. Our inclusive approach supports the diversity of our learner population, preparing graduates for work in a wide range of environments, including Indigenous communities.

We have an extensive network of services tailored specifically to the needs of Indigenous learners, including Indigenous student support services and Elder support.

Indigenous Student Advisor

Available for drop-ins or individual appointments with students who need help with:

• identifying Indigenous funding options
• assisting prospective students with program information and the admissions process
• providing career planning and educational guidance to Indigenous-funded students
• liaising with bands in the provision of student support and service management
• referrals to appropriate community agencies and resources
• connecting with instructors, admissions personnel, tutors, counsellors, and advisors

Note: Student Advisors are available Monday – Friday from 8:15 to 4:30 to assist Indigenous students.

Indigenous Student Funding

Qualified Indigenous students may be eligible for additional grants or loans. Other sources of funding may be available through your band education counsellor or Indigenous funding agencies. For further information, contact the Indigenous Student Advisor.

Indigenous student funding can include:

• student grant funding
• student loan funding
• band funding
• Bill C-31 funding
• Métis funding

Indigenous Educational Counsellor

The Indigenous educational counsellor assists Indigenous students to cope more effectively with personal, financial, career, and academic issues. The counsellor works closely with the Elders, Indigenous programs, and Indigenous Student Services at NorQuest College to address the unique challenges that may hinder the success of Indigenous students.

Indigenous Elders

Elder support is available to provide spiritual and cultural guidance. Indigenous students are encouraged to meet with an Elder for counselling, spiritual guidance, and healing circles.

Edmonton Main Campus: Wednesday and Thursday
Wetaskiwin: Tuesday and Thursday

Indigenous Student Centre

NorQuest’s Indigenous Student Centre provides a multi-purpose facility for Indigenous students. Located in Room 1-151 of the Singhmar Centre for Learning, the Indigenous Student Centre is used for ceremonies, counselling sessions with an Elder, and as a social gathering place.

RBC Indigenous Mentorship Program

Indigenous mentors create a support system from within an Indigenous framework to develop a sense of belonging and enhance the learning experience of Indigenous students attending NorQuest College. Learn more about the RBC Indigenous Mentorship Program and how to get involved.

Land-Based Learning

In Canada and internationally, there is a strong and growing body of knowledge, strengthened by the teachings of Indigenous community Elders and knowledge keepers, regarding promising land-based learning approaches and how they contribute to improving the student experience.

• A lot happens near the river
• Aspen View public schools
• Dechinta
• Land as a source of identity
• Learning on Country
• Metis Crossing
• Nehiyawak language experience
• Painted Warriors
• Partners In Place
• Shaping Influences of a capable person