Graduate Education
Aboriginal Access Program
Aboriginal candidates who meet the minimum admission requirements will be given special consideration in the application process. In accordance with the Constitution Act, 1982, an Aboriginal candidate is an Indian, Inuit or Métis person of Canada. Applicants who wish to be considered through the Aboriginal Access program must provide proof of Native status (such as a copy of the status card or letter from the band). Aboriginal Access applicants are invited to contact the Graduate Programs Office at 519-661-2099.
Admissions Information
Discover admissions requirements, how to apply, and how to contact the Graduate Office.
MPEd | Field of Educational Leadership, Focal Area: Indigenous Education
Master of Professional Education in the Field of Educational Leadership, Focal Area: Aboriginal Education is a course-based graduate program leading to an MPEd degree. Students proceed through the program together as a cohort and complete seven designated courses and a capstone project over six terms (two years). Student choice is encouraged through a process that allows individuals and groups to tailor course assignments, case studies and projects to meet their learning and professional goals.
Indigenous Graduate Students Scholarship Program
The Indigenous Graduate Students Scholarship Program is awarded annually to three PhD graduate students and two MA graduate students who are beginning their studies in the Faculty of Education’s MA and PhD programs.
Graduate Education Spotlight
Tara Hedicans | Ph.D Candidate
Tara Hedicans is entering her fifth year of the Critical Policy, Equity, and Leadership Studies (CPELS) program at Western University under the supervision of Dr. Brent Debassige. She self-identifies as an Anishnaabe (Ojibwe) woman of the loon clan, whose ancestors originate from the Eabametoong First Nation, a remote reserve in northern Ontario. She walks on Earth with the traditional name Azahdaewatquay, which means “strong-hearted woman.” Currently, she is actively engaged in social justice and an advocate for education, working to end cycles of poverty affecting Indigenous peoples. Her leadership skills are diverse, including international athletic accomplishments and scholastic abilities as a published author, instructor, school principal, and high-achieving academic.
