Nunavut Arctic College: Charting Educational Pathways in the North

Nunavut Arctic College (NAC) plays a vital role in providing accessible and relevant educational opportunities to the residents of Nunavut. With a focus on community-based learning and programs tailored to the unique needs of the territory, NAC offers a diverse range of courses and programs designed to empower individuals and strengthen communities.

Community Learning Centres: Education at Your Doorstep

Recognizing the vastness of Nunavut and the importance of accessibility, NAC operates Community Learning Centres in all 25 communities across the territory. These centres serve as a crucial link, bringing educational programs and resources directly to the people. Each centre is staffed by an Adult Educator who acts as a guide and resource person for individuals seeking further education.

Adult Educators provide invaluable support by:

Offering information and guidance on educational pathways.
Conducting academic assessments to determine individual learning needs.
Assisting individuals in making informed vocational and educational choices.
Helping individuals find information on career programs offered by Nunavut Arctic College, other community colleges, and universities.

Through these Community Learning Centres, NAC ensures that educational opportunities are within reach for all Nunavummiut, regardless of their location.

Diverse Program Offerings: Meeting the Needs of Nunavut

Nunavut Arctic College offers a wide array of programs catering to various interests and career aspirations. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to succeed in the Nunavut job market and beyond. Here's a glimpse into some of the key program areas:

Trades Programs: Building a Skilled Workforce

NAC offers a range of introductory trades programs designed to provide learners with the foundational skills and knowledge needed to pursue apprenticeships in high-demand trades. These programs emphasize hands-on training, safety, and the development of essential skills.

Housing Maintainer (1-year Diploma): This multi-disciplinary program equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enter an apprenticeship as a Housing Maintainer or pursue other NAC programs. Training includes working with various tools, techniques, and materials in well-equipped shops, along with instruction in trades-related math, science, and communications.
Carpenter (1-year Diploma): This introductory program focuses on developing the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to pursue a carpentry apprenticeship. The program places a strong emphasis on safety, including WSCC 'Go Safe' and St John First Aid certifications. Learners complete Level 1 Carpentry Apprenticeship theory while training with tools and materials in well-equipped workshops.
Oil Heat Systems Technician (1-year Diploma): Formerly known as Oil Burner Mechanic, this program provides learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enter an apprenticeship in this field or pursue other NAC programs. The curriculum includes hands-on training with tools and materials, as well as instruction in trades-related math, science, and communications.
Plumber (1-year Diploma): This introductory program aims to provide learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to enter a plumbing apprenticeship or pursue other NAC programs. Students receive hands-on training in well-equipped shops and learn trades-related math, science, and communications.
Pre-apprenticeship Electrician: This multi-disciplinary program prepares learners for an electrician apprenticeship or further studies at NAC. The program combines hands-on training with instruction in trades-related math, science, and communications.

Applied Arts Programs: Fostering Creativity and Communication

Computer Systems Technician (1-year, 3 semesters): This program prepares graduates for careers in IT, with a focus on network and system administration. Graduates will be able to implement and maintain information technology solutions for individuals and organizations, working independently or as part of a team. The program covers computer hardware, operating systems, networking technologies, system administration, and related software packages.

Management and Business Programs: Developing Leadership Skills

Management Studies (Diploma): This general management program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue administrative and management careers in business, government, and non-profit organizations. The program emphasizes content relevant to the Nunavut employment market and includes a specialized concentration in Business Administration.
Business Administration (Diploma): This program is ideal for individuals seeking a career in office administration. It provides students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to work as secretaries, administrative assistants, typists, receptionists, word processors, finance clerks, data-entry clerks, and other administrative support positions.

Education Programs: Shaping Future Generations

Nunavut Teacher Education Program (NTEP): NTEP offers both campus-based and community-based programs to prepare Nunavummiut to become classroom teachers in Nunavut schools. The program focuses on developing educators who are fluent in and able to learn and teach in Inuktitut. Applicants should be proficient in Inuktitut, with two streams of Inuktitut instruction offered in Iqaluit: Proficient & Emergent. The program also requires applicants to submit an application form to the partner university (MUN). NTEP has ongoing community programs from 2024-25 in Arctic Bay, Arviat, Baker Lake, Cambridge Bay, Hall Beach, Igloolik, Iqaluit, Kinngait, Naujaat, Pond Inlet, Qikiqtarjuaq, Rankin Inlet and Whale Cove.

Early Childhood Education Programs: Nurturing Young Minds

Early Childhood Education Applied Certificate: This program meets the logistical needs of Nunavut communities and the learning needs of childcare workers by providing on-site training with minimal disruption to childcare centres. The program trains current childcare workers through intensive, three-week accredited courses, building capacity in early childhood development. It is available in the Kivalliq & Qikiqtaaluk regions (Rankin Inlet, Arviat, Coral Harbour, and Iqaluit).
Early Childhood Education Program (ECEP) (2-year Diploma): This accredited diploma program prepares students with the knowledge and skills to develop and deliver quality Early Childhood Education in Nunavut. Upon successful completion, graduates will improve their knowledge and usage of English and Inuktitut, as well as scientific principles and concepts. They will also develop an understanding and appreciation of what it takes to be successful in a university-level program.

Adult Learning Programs: Empowering Lifelong Learners

Adult Basic Education (ABE): This program includes six levels of study, ranging from basic literacy to coursework at the Grade 12 level. Courses in ABE enable participants to learn or re-learn skills needed to meet employment, personal, or educational goals. Participants engage in a program of study tailored to their personal needs and academic levels.
Programs for income assistance recipients: G.R.E.A.T has been developed in partnership with the Nunavut Department of Family Services, specifically for income assistance recipients.
Programs for adult students: PASS enables adult students who did not complete high school and are unable to attend in-class courses to attain their high school diploma by completing approved Alberta Education courses via an innovative and flexible delivery model.

A Focus on Inuit Culture and Context

Nunavut Arctic College recognizes the importance of incorporating Inuit culture, history, and social context into its programs. This commitment is reflected in various initiatives, including:

Inuktitut Language Instruction: The Nunavut Teacher Education Program (NTEP) prioritizes the development of educators who are fluent in Inuktitut and able to teach in the language.
Faculty Engagement: Faculty members from NAC travel to Nunavut to teach in community-based programs. This allows them to enhance their understanding of Inuit culture, history, and social context, enriching their teaching and program development.
Culturally Relevant Curriculum: NAC strives to incorporate Inuit perspectives and knowledge into its curriculum, ensuring that programs are relevant and meaningful to students.

Building a Positive Community

NAC is committed to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment for its students. The college actively promotes a sense of community by building bridges between students, staff, faculty, campus, and community resources. This collaborative approach ensures that students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed.

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