Aboriginal Health and Nursing
Thompson Rivers University is pleased to offer a new program for Aboriginal students interested in any health related career. The program begins in September 2011 and runs to August 2012. Learn more about the Pathways Program Aboriginal Health
Since time immemorial, Aboriginal Peoples have known how to maintain the health of individuals, families, communities, and that of their non-human neighbours and environments. Stories and records indicate that, prior to contact, the health of Aboriginal populations in Canada was extremely good. Many changes occurred with the arrival of the non-Aboriginal settlers. The loss of lands, natural resources, and traditional knowledge and practices has had many enduring negative impacts on Aboriginal peoples’ health.
Ceremonies, Aboriginal language and spiritual practices were eventually banned by non-Aboriginal governance. Fortunately there has been a resurgence and reclamation of Aboriginal vision and strength as Aboriginal peoples move forward to overcome the health effects of colonization. There is increasing recognition that actions to settle land claims and promote self-governance are making a significant contribution in promoting health and healing for Aboriginal peoples.
The School of Nursing recognizes the inequities that contribute to and shape the health of Aboriginal Peoples and the importance of Aboriginal self-governance in promoting the health of Aboriginal Peoples. Further, Aboriginal Peoples’ health is an issue of social justice; nurses have a responsibility to address health, economic and social inequities experienced by the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples of Canada.
Example of Research Conducted by Our Faculty
Aboriginal Nursing Students
First Nations nurses are in great demand in the communities, hospitals and health-care organizations of our region and across Canada. As a nurse of Aboriginal descent, your knowledge, spirit, and perspective will help improve the health of not only Aboriginal people but all Canadians.
A fulfilling career in health care lies ahead-and a brighter future for those you help along the way. We know Aboriginal health care is best delivered by those who understand the unique cultural, spiritual and family context of First Nations health. We invite you to bring to the program what you already know. Let it flavour what you learn as you follow the path toward a rewarding career as a registered nurse.
The TRU School of Nursing has worked with several Aboriginal individuals and organizations (including a partnership with SFU-KIB) to increase recruitment and retention of Aboriginal students in nursing. The School of Nursing has 8 dedicated seats in the BScN program for Aboriginal applicants (10% of our current intake). We are also supporters of the Aboriginal Nurses Association of Canada (A.N.A.C. ).
Aboriginal Nurses Association of Canada