India-Canada Studies – certificate

Quick Facts

Apply online

Credential:
Certificate

Duration:
1 year

Format:
Full time, Part time

How to apply

Start date:
January, May, September 

Location:
Abbotsford campus

Cost:
Tuition and fees info

Features:

  • Field trips enhance classroom learning
  • The program offers opportunities for study tours to India, student internships, student exchanges, and interaction with scholars and guest lecturers from India.

Program Description

UFV's India-Canada Studies certificate is designed to introduce you to the rich social, cultural, and political heritage and contribution of the Indian community in Canada. Whether you come from a South Asian heritage or have a deep interest in this fascinating culture, you will develop a solid understanding of the issues surrounding the Indian sub-continent and its widespread Diaspora to complement your major field of study.

The curriculum is multi-disciplinary and structured to help you explore a specialized area of cultural knowledge relevant to local and global communities.

The 30-credit certificate is divided into two streams: a social stream, and a cultural, literature, and language stream. In addition to two core courses in South Asian history and geography, you are expected to take at least two courses from each stream. To earn the rest of your credits, you can choose four electives from either stream.

View program outline in the UFV Academic Calendar

The India-Canada Studies certificate can also be a great starting point for graduate studies in South Asian studies or other related disciplines such as anthropology, cultural studies, economics, global development studies, history, and sociology.

South Asian Studies Institute

UFV is an ideal location to undertake South Asian studies, because the university is located in a major South Asian population centre and has a campus in Chandigarh, India, as well as partnerships with other Indian universities. UFV also houses the South Asian Studies Institute (SASI), formerly known as the Centre for Indo-Canadian Studies.

SASI provides you with unparalleled hands-on opportunities to complement your learning:

  • Internships are available if you are interested in working in India.
  • Research assistantships for SASI initiatives
  • Student work–study program
  • Various SASI events and activities
  • Student advisory committee
  • Lecture series on topical matters

Career Expectations

According to the Canada 2016 Census, the second largest ethnic group in Abbotsford is South Asian, comprising 21.7% of the population. In fact, the Abbotsford metropolitan area has Canada's highest proportion of ethnically Indian citizens. A 2014 report by the City of Abbotsford states that the Punjabi language is spoken by 20.6% of Abbotsford households, making it the second most commonly spoken language at home after English and/or French.

In today's global economy, B.C. and Canada have major economic and cultural ties to India. India has one of the world’s fastest-growing economies with a growing population, rising per capita income, and rapid expansion in many industries. The Canadian government is working with the Indian government to develop opportunities for exporters, investors, and innovators from both nations.

Having an in-depth understanding of Indian culture, history, and economics adds value to your résumé. If you plan to launch a career in the Fraser Valley, complementing your major field of study with an India-Canada Studies certificate can open doors of opportunity in practically any field, including education, business, social work, agriculture, arts and culture, and public administration.

Entrance Requirements

View entrance requirements for the India-Canada Studies program in the UFV Academic Calendar.

International Student Admissions

This program is open for international students. Please note that tuition fees will apply.

Learn how to apply as an international student

See all programs open to international students

Upgrading Options

Students who do not meet the entrance requirements may complete upgrading to meet prerequisites for university-level courses. 

Prospective students should contact the Future Students office to learn more about upgrading options. 

Current or returning students should connect with the appropriate advising area based on the level of upgrading required:  

Questions?

Our Future Students team is here to help you understand your options and get ready to submit an application.

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