U of A launches new Aboriginal sport and recreation certificate program

The University of Alberta started a unique certificate program for Aboriginal sport and recreation this past fall.

“The program has already had students enrolling in the certificate program, which has provided excitement,” said Tara-Leigh McHugh, assistant frofessor for the faculty of Physical Education and Recreation.

The Aboriginal sports and recreation certificate program is a joint venture between the faculty of Native American Studies and the faculty of Physical Education and Recreation.

This distinctive certificate program was created through community consultation with surrounding Aboriginal communities.

 “A lot took place before this program came to the U of A. There was discussions with faculty, leaders and surrounding communities to discuss the need for a program of this extent,” said McHugh.

The program is inclusive to any student who is interested in learning about working with Aboriginal communities, as it applies to sport and recreation.

The program responds to the overall needs of Aboriginal communities to have trained individuals creating sports and recreation programming that is culturally sensitive.
“The collaboration through the Native Studies Department and the Phys Ed Department creates an atmosphere of learning that practices cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the health needs of Aboriginal youth in their communities,” said Nathalie Kermaol, dean of the faculty of Native Studies.

The Native Studies department plays a large role in educating the students in Aboriginal protocol and culture.
“Through the courses offered by the Native Studies Department, students will learn about such things as the impact of colonization, treaties, land rights, residential schools and will meet many Aboriginal role models and mentors,” said Kermaol.

This will reach students that may have not had the opportunity to take Native Studies courses.

The students will also learn about proper protocol and methods in working with Aboriginal communities, which could benefit their future work in this field.

The students that decide to take the certificate program will graduate with a certificate in Aboriginal Sport and Recreation along with their degree. This makes it an embedded certificate program that adds more training and value to a graduate’s degree.

“The certificate is a great addition because we have realized a need in this field and to be the first institution to offer this training means a step up in finding employment in this aspect of the health field,” said McHugh.

The program consists of some mandatory courses, but most courses fit into electives through their program, which means the student is in control of when the certificate program will be complete.

“This is truly a unique program and an opportunity for students to learn about sport and recreation in Aboriginal communities. As well, the collaboration through the two departments will continue to work to expand the program,” said McHugh.