Indigenous Business Diploma

The Indigenous Business Diploma program is designed to equip students with essential business knowledge, practical skills, and cultural understanding to foster success in Indigenous-led businesses and organizations. This two-year diploma program integrates Traditional Indigenous Knowledge with contemporary business principles, focusing on land governance and sustainable economic practices. The curriculum emphasizes holistic growth, cultural vitality, and community-focused leadership, all guided by Indigenous Storywork and community-led knowledge systems.

Curriculum

The program consists of 20 carefully curated courses, deeply rooted in Community-led Indigenous Knowledge Systems. The curriculum is structured around four seasons, each guided by traditional teachings, blending Indigenous knowledge with contemporary business principles.

1. Season 1: Build a Foundation – Chief skm'xist (Black Bear)
   • Indigenous Business FoundationsIBUS 100
   • Indigenous Business CommunicationsIBUS 110
   • Finite Mathematics for BusinessIBUS 120
   • Teachings from the LandINST 105
   • English CompositionENGL 110
2. Season 2: Inter-reliant Connection – Chief sp'iƛ'm (Bitterroot)
   • Community Evaluation and StrategyIBUS 130
   • Community Dynamics and Organizational AnalysisIBUS 140
   • Microeconomic AnalysisIBUS 150
   • Financial Stewardship in Indigenous CommunitiesIBUS 160
   • Community, Culture and IdentityFNST 102
3. Season 3: Persistent Change – Chief siyaʔ (Saskatoon Berry)
   • Macroeconomic AnalysisIBUS 200
   • Relational MarketingIBUS 210
   • Digital Leadership and Community ConnectivityIBUS 220
   • Land Stewardship and Economic ChangeIBUS 230
   • Indigenous Business Law and EthicsIBUS 240
4. Season 4: Action – Chief ntytyix (King Salmon)
   • Indigenous Governance, Law and the LandIBUS 250
   • International Indigenous BusinessIBUS 260
   • Economic ReconciliationIBUS 270
   • Indigenous Leadership and Management PracticesIBUS 280
   • Capstone: Indigenous Entrepreneurship and InnovationIBUS 290

Careers

Graduates are prepared for careers that combine Indigenous Knowledge Systems with contemporary business practices, supporting sustainable economic development and leadership within Indigenous communities and organizations.

• Community Economic Development Officer
• Governance or Policy Assistant
• Entrepreneur or Indigenous Business Owner
• Project or Program Coordinator
• Financial Steward or Bookkeeper

Frequently asked questions

What are the academic entry requirements for the Indigenous Business Diploma?

Applicants must have Grade 12 graduation or equivalent. This must include MATH 057 or Foundations of Math 11 (or equivalent assessment) and ENGL 060 or English 12 (or equivalent assessment).

How long does the Indigenous Business Diploma program take to complete?

The program duration is 2 to 3 years, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time. It is a diploma program with 60.0 credits.

What career paths can I pursue after graduating from this program?

Graduates are prepared for roles such as Community Economic Development Officer, Entrepreneur or Indigenous Business Owner, Governance or Policy Assistant, and Financial Steward or Bookkeeper, combining Indigenous Knowledge Systems with contemporary business practices.

What is the application process for the Indigenous Business Diploma?

You can apply online through Education Planner BC or by downloading and submitting the application form directly. After submission, the Registrar's Office will send an offer letter via email.

Is tuition support available for students?

Yes, information regarding tuition support is available through various options, including scholarships, bursaries, grants, student loans, and entrance awards.