Aboriginal-governed institute offers first ever degree program

With an eye to giving Aboriginal students the edge when it comes to shaping social policy in their communities, the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology is offering a bachelor of social work degree program this fall.
Delivered jointly with the Thompson Rivers University, this is the first degree program approved for the Aboriginal-governed institute.
The program builds on a bachelor of social work degree program offered by the university and institute since 1998. The institute program has an Aboriginal-centred curriculum and includes courses in Aboriginal life cycles, Aboriginal perspectives on social policy, ethical practice in Aboriginal communities, and cultural immersion.
Twenty five seats are available in each of the institute's Merritt and Vancouver campuses, where intake will also take place.
According to institute president Casey Sheridan, "Offering our first degree program in partnership with Thompson River University recognizes our long-standing relationship. Students may now benefit from the Aboriginal-centred programs we offer as they pursue their bachelor's degree in social work."
The Nicola Valley Institute of Technology is British Columbia's Aboriginal public post-secondary institution offering credentials in fields linked to community, social, economic, land and First Nations self-governance development. Government is supporting the institute this year with more than $7 million in operating grants, an increase of almost nine percent over 2007-08.