Multicultural and Indigenous Studies

Have you always been concerned with societal issues rooted in race, ethnicity and indigeneity? Are you fascinated by the social processes affected by these topics here in Canada and how these questions shape our common understanding of immigration, culture and race? Studying Multicultural and Indigenous Studies at York will expose you to the very core of these ideas. As the first of its kind in Canada, a degree in Multicultural and Indigenous Studies will put you at the academic forefront of interdisciplinary programs focused on multiculturalism and indigeneity in the country. You will have a choice to explore one of three main streams depending on your interests and future career goals. Aside from important core courses, the major allows you to focus on Diaspora Studies, Indigenous Studies, or Racism and Multiculturalism.

Career Options in Multicultural and Indigenous Studies

Below is a sample list of some future choices to explore following studies in Multicultural and Indigenous Studies. This list is not exhaustive but it provides a solid idea of what fellow graduates have gone on to do and what potential careers a Multiculturalism and Indigenous Studies degree can offer. Some options are more directly associated with specific areas of Multiculturalism and Indigenous Studies than others.

Activist
Aboriginal Historian
Author
Archivist
Blogger
Child Development Specialist
Children’s Rights Advocate
Cultural Advisor
Community Educator
Community Advocate/Consultant
Diplomat
Editor
Entrepreneur
Event Planner
Foreign Service Worker
Fundraising Coordinator
Government Agency Worker
Guidance Counsellor
Historical Site Guide
Human Resources Specialist
Industrial Relations Consultant

Indigenous Issues Consultant
International Aid Director
International Development Worker
Journalist
Lawyer
Legal Aid Representative
Linguist
Lobbyist
Magazine Contributor
Media Correspondent
Museum Curator
Non-Profit Organization Director
Politician
Political Aid/Advisor
Professor
Public Policy Analyst
Researcher
Social Program Director
Speech Writer
Translator
UN Representative

Some of these career choices may require additional education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential education or professional formative courses and exams. For a more in-depth description of some of the careers mentioned above visit Career Cruising (login information can be found on the home page of the Career Centre's online system) or the National Occupational Classification website.

Skills Developed through a Multicultural and Indigenous Studies Degree

A background in Multicultural and Indigenous Studies ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges. Here are just a few of the skills a Multicultural and Indigenous Studies degree can help you develop:

Core Multicultural and Indigenous Studies Skills

Understanding of crucial issues at the center of debate on race, immigration, culture, law and social policy
Strong communication skills and the ability to express yourself through written and oral presentations and discussions
Sound analytical skills developed through the program’s interdisciplinary approach

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas
The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work

Management and Teamwork

The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, and ideas in order to achieve a project’s intended end result
Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field. The following is a selection of organizations related to the field of Multicultural and Indigenous Studies that you may want to visit as you research career options for Multicultural and Indigenous Studies graduates.