Lead Change in Urban Indigenous Education
Deepen your understanding of Indigenous knowledges, histories, and pedagogies in urban contexts.
Join a community of educators and leaders committed to advancing Indigenous education and building inclusive, equitable learning environments in Toronto and beyond.
Next Intake: Fall 2026
Location: York University Keele Campus (4700 Keele St.) & Urban Indigenous Education Centre (16 Phin Ave, Toronto)
Study Options: Full-time or Part-time
Why Choose This Program?
Deepen your understanding of urban indigeneity and the diverse experiences of Indigenous peoples in cities
Develop critical and analytical skills for teaching and learning about Indigenous peoples within urban contexts
Build expertise in culturally responsive and decolonizing approaches to education
Learn within one of Toronto’s hubs for Indigenous education — core courses are held at the Urban Indigenous Education Centre (16 Phin Avenue)
Be taught by Indigenous faculty who specialize in Indigenous education, Indigenous pedagogies, and cultural resurgence
Program Overview
In large, multicultural cities like Toronto, Indigenous peoples are often rendered invisible within the education system. For many Indigenous children, youth, and families, this invisibility can result in feelings of alienation and disconnection from schooling.
Students in urban settings may not see themselves reflected in their teachers, peers, or curriculum. At the same time, educators and administrators often face challenges in recognizing Indigenous students, understanding their experiences, and meaningfully integrating Indigenous content into their classrooms.
The MEd Urban Indigenous Education Cohort addresses these challenges by exploring how Indigenous worldviews, pedagogies, and ways of knowing can be integrated across educational contexts.
Study Urban Indigenous Education in Partnership with the TDSB
Developed in collaboration with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) Urban Indigenous Education Centre, this Master of Education (MEd) cohort focuses on Urban Indigenous Education and is offered through the Faculty of Education at York University.
This program responds to the growing need for knowledge and understanding of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures, histories, and perspectives—particularly within urban educational settings. Admission to this cohort typically occurs every two years.
Sample Courses
Courses in this cohort include:
- EDUC 5120 6.0 — Theory and Research in Language, Culture and Teaching
- EDUC 5611 3.0 — Indigenous Ways of Knowing
- EDUC 5225 3.0 — (de)Colonizing Research Methodologies
(Course offerings are subject to change)
How to Apply
Applications open for Fall 2026 entry:
- Full-Time Deadline: January 15, 2026
- Part-Time Deadline: February 15, 2026
There is no separate application for this cohort. When completing your MEd application, indicate that you are applying to the Urban Indigenous Education Cohort at the top of your form.
In your Statement of Interest, highlight your engagement with Indigenous communities, histories, knowledges, and cultures. View admission requirements for the MEd program
Connect with Us
Have questions about the program or application process? Our team is here to help.
Email: gradprogram@edu.yorku.ca
