Northwest Territories-Nunavut College

Empowering Northern leadership through local innovation and excellence.

📍 Yellowknife, Canada 🇨🇦

Quick Facts about Northwest Territories-Nunavut College

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 2,915
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Language: English
  • Intakes: January, August, September

About Northwest Territories-Nunavut College

Northwest Territories-Nunavut College, also known as Aurora College, is the sole public post-secondary institution in the Northwest Territories, Canada. It offers a distinctive educational experience with a strong focus on northern and Indigenous cultures and environments. The college aims to provide quality programs and services that meet the educational needs of its students and contribute to the economic and cultural development of the region.

Academics

Aurora College offers a range of programs across its campuses in Yellowknife, Fort Smith, and Inuvik, as well as various community learning centers. The college emphasizes personalized and community-centered learning, with notable programs in environmental science, Indigenous studies, and northern ecosystems. While it provides certificate and diploma programs, it also facilitates bachelor's degree programs through partnerships with other universities.

International Students

Aurora College has historically accepted international students, though it recently paused new international applications due to capacity issues, particularly regarding housing. The college prioritizes Northern students, then other Canadians, before international students. However, the Northwest Territories government recognizes Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) that meet federal standards for international student programs, ensuring quality education and accountability.

Campus & Location

Yellowknife, the capital city of the Northwest Territories, offers a unique living experience with its beautiful wilderness, rich Indigenous culture, and tight-knit communities. While housing can be a challenge, especially for short-term stays, the city provides a serene and inspiring atmosphere for academic pursuits. Yellowknife is known for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking, and the chance to view the Northern Lights.

Career Outcomes

Education plays a significant role in employment success in the Northwest Territories. Individuals with post-secondary education have a much higher employment rate compared to those with less than a high school diploma. The NWT labor market shows strong employment levels, with Yellowknife often having higher employment rates than other regions. The government and education sectors are significant employers in the territories.

Information for International Students at Northwest Territories-Nunavut College

Northwest Territories-Nunavut College in Yellowknife, Canada welcomes international students.

  • No visa support offered
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available (~$440/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Northwest Territories-Nunavut College

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Northwest Territories-Nunavut College:

  • Application fee: $40
  • Application deadline: June 30

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Programs at Northwest Territories-Nunavut College (56 programs)

Northwest Territories-Nunavut College offers 56 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (25)

  • Bachelor of Education (Northern Focus) (BEd) — 48 months · English · $6,000/yr
    This program prepares educators for teaching in northern communities, emphasizing culturally relevant pedagogy, Indigenous languages, and the unique challenges and opportunities of northern education systems. Practical teaching experience is a core component.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: teacher, educational administrator, curriculum developer, community educator
  • Bachelor of Social Work (Northern Practice) (BSW) — 48 months · English · $6,200/yr
    A professional degree preparing students for social work practice in northern and remote communities, emphasizing culturally competent and trauma-informed approaches to social justice and community well-being. Field placements are integral to the curriculum.
    Field: Social Work
    Career outcomes: social worker, community outreach worker, family support worker, policy advocate
  • Business Administration with Northern Specialization (BBA) — 48 months · English · $6,500/yr
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles with a unique focus on the economic landscape, challenges, and opportunities in the Canadian North, including resource industries, tourism, and small business development.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: business manager, economic development officer, entrepreneur, financial analyst
  • Environmental Technology Program (BSc) — 48 months · English · $7,500/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on environmental science, resource management, and sustainable development practices relevant to northern ecosystems. Students gain practical skills in environmental monitoring, assessment, and remediation.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: environmental consultant, wildlife biologist, park ranger, environmental policy analyst
  • Social Work in Northern Communities (BSW) — 48 months · English · $5,800/yr
    A professional program preparing students for social work practice in northern and Indigenous communities, emphasizing culturally competent and trauma-informed approaches to support individuals, families, and communities.
    Field: Social Work
    Career outcomes: social worker, community support worker, case manager, family counsellor
  • Applied Science in Cold Regions Geomatics (BASc) — 48 months · English · $6,800/yr · STEM
    This program combines geomatics engineering principles with specific applications in cold regions, including remote sensing, GIS, and GPS for mapping, monitoring, and managing northern landscapes and infrastructure.
    Field: Geomatics Engineering
    Career outcomes: GIS specialist, geomatics engineer, surveyor, environmental data analyst
  • Education in Northern Contexts (BEd) — 48 months · English · $5,500/yr
    This program prepares educators to teach effectively in diverse northern communities, with a focus on culturally relevant pedagogy, Indigenous languages, and addressing the unique educational challenges and opportunities of the North.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: teacher, educational administrator, curriculum developer, community educator
  • Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Languages and Linguistics (BA) — 48 months · English · $5,800/yr
    This program offers in-depth study of Indigenous languages spoken in the North, including their structure, history, and revitalization efforts. Students develop proficiency in an Indigenous language and gain skills in linguistic analysis and cultural preservation.
    Field: Linguistics
    Career outcomes: language instructor, translator/interpreter, cultural program coordinator, linguistic researcher
  • Northern Tourism and Hospitality Management (BTM) — 48 months · English · $6,200/yr
    Students learn to manage and develop sustainable tourism and hospitality operations in the unique context of the North, considering cultural sensitivity, environmental impact, and remote logistics. Focuses on ecotourism and cultural tourism.
    Field: Tourism and Hospitality
    Career outcomes: tourism manager, hotel manager, event planner, destination marketing specialist
  • Indigenous Governance and Public Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $6,800/yr
    Students explore the complexities of Indigenous governance structures, public policy, and administrative practices within the Canadian context, with a focus on northern Indigenous communities. The curriculum emphasizes self-determination and community development.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: policy analyst, community development officer, band manager, government relations specialist
  • Business Administration (Northern Development) (BBA) — 48 months · English · $7,200/yr
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles with a specific emphasis on economic development and entrepreneurship in the North. Students learn about resource economies, small business management, and Indigenous economic initiatives.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: business manager, economic development officer, entrepreneur, financial analyst
  • Education (Northern Focus) (BEd) — 48 months · English · $7,000/yr
    Designed for aspiring educators, this program focuses on pedagogical approaches and curriculum development relevant to northern schools and diverse student populations. It includes practical teaching placements in local communities.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: elementary school teacher, secondary school teacher, educational assistant, curriculum developer
  • Diploma in Renewable Energy and Conservation — 24 months · English · $6,000/yr · STEM
    This diploma program provides practical skills and knowledge in renewable energy technologies and conservation practices relevant to northern communities. Students learn about solar, wind, and biomass energy systems, as well as energy efficiency.
    Field: Renewable Energy
    Career outcomes: renewable energy technician, energy auditor, conservation officer, sustainable development coordinator
  • Northern Nursing Program (BSc) — 48 months · English · $8,200/yr · STEM
    This program prepares students for nursing practice in remote and northern communities, addressing unique health challenges and cultural considerations. It combines theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical experience.
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: registered nurse, community health nurse, public health nurse, remote clinic nurse
  • Social Work (Northern Communities) (BSW) — 48 months · English · $6,900/yr
    Students are trained in social work theory and practice, with a specialized focus on the unique social and cultural contexts of northern and Indigenous communities. The program emphasizes culturally sensitive interventions and community-based support.
    Field: Social Work
    Career outcomes: social worker, community support worker, child protection worker, addictions counsellor
  • Indigenous Governance and Public Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $6,800/yr
    Students explore the complexities of Indigenous governance structures, public policy, and administrative practices within the Canadian context, with a focus on northern Indigenous communities. The curriculum emphasizes self-determination and community development.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: policy analyst, community development officer, band manager, government relations specialist
  • Business Administration (Northern Development) (BBA) — 48 months · English · $7,200/yr
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles with a specific emphasis on economic development and entrepreneurship in the North. Students learn about resource economies, small business management, and Indigenous economic initiatives.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: business manager, economic development officer, entrepreneur, financial analyst
  • Education (Northern Focus) (BEd) — 48 months · English · $7,000/yr
    Designed for aspiring educators, this program focuses on pedagogical approaches and curriculum development relevant to northern schools and diverse student populations. It includes practical teaching placements in local communities.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: elementary school teacher, secondary school teacher, educational assistant, curriculum developer
  • Diploma in Renewable Energy and Conservation — 24 months · English · $6,000/yr · STEM
    This diploma program provides practical skills and knowledge in renewable energy technologies and conservation practices relevant to northern communities. Students learn about solar, wind, and biomass energy systems, as well as energy efficiency.
    Field: Renewable Energy
    Career outcomes: renewable energy technician, energy auditor, conservation officer, sustainable development coordinator
  • Northern Nursing Program (BSc) — 48 months · English · $8,200/yr · STEM
    This program prepares students for nursing practice in remote and northern communities, addressing unique health challenges and cultural considerations. It combines theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical experience.
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: registered nurse, community health nurse, public health nurse, remote clinic nurse
  • Social Work (Northern Communities) (BSW) — 48 months · English · $6,900/yr
    Students are trained in social work theory and practice, with a specialized focus on the unique social and cultural contexts of northern and Indigenous communities. The program emphasizes culturally sensitive interventions and community-based support.
    Field: Social Work
    Career outcomes: social worker, community support worker, child protection worker, addictions counsellor
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This is a four-year baccalaureate program designed to prepare nurses. The Aurora College BSN program follows the Requisite Skills and Abilities guidelines of the College and Association of Nurses of Northwest Territories and Nunavut (CANNN).
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: Nurse
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Arctic Nursing) (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This program is offered in partnership with Dalhousie University and is designed to prepare Inuit nurses to respond to the healthcare needs of Nunavut.
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: Nurse in Nunavut
  • Nunavut Teacher Education Program — English
    This program is offered in conjunction with the University of Regina, preparing students for teaching careers.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Teacher
  • Nunavut Teacher Education Program — English
    This program is offered in conjunction with the University of Regina, preparing students for teaching careers.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Teacher

Master Programs (10)

  • Master of Public Health (Northern Health) (MPH) — 24 months · English · $7,500/yr · STEM
    A specialized public health program addressing health disparities, access to care, and unique health challenges in northern and Indigenous communities. Students develop skills in epidemiology, health policy, and community health promotion.
    Field: Public Health
    Career outcomes: public health officer, health policy analyst, community health manager, epidemiologist
  • Master of Science in Arctic Biology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $8,200/yr · STEM
    This program provides advanced training and research opportunities in the unique biological systems of the Arctic, including wildlife ecology, permafrost microbiology, and climate change impacts on northern ecosystems. Students conduct original scientific research.
    Field: Biology
    Career outcomes: research scientist, conservation biologist, environmental consultant, wildlife manager
  • Northern Studies and Indigenous Governance (MA) — 24 months · English · $8,000/yr
    This master's program explores the unique social, political, and cultural dynamics of the Canadian North, with a strong emphasis on Indigenous governance, self-determination, and community development. Students engage in advanced research and policy analysis.
    Field: Indigenous Studies
    Career outcomes: policy advisor, community development officer, researcher, indigenous relations specialist
  • Community Health and Wellness in the North (MSc) — 24 months · English · $7,500/yr · STEM
    A graduate program focusing on public health challenges and solutions specific to northern populations, including mental health, chronic disease prevention, and health service delivery in remote areas. Emphasizes community-based participatory research.
    Field: Public Health
    Career outcomes: public health officer, health program manager, health policy analyst, researcher
  • Indigenous Language Revitalization (MA) — 24 months · English · $7,000/yr
    This program focuses on the theory and practice of Indigenous language revitalization, including linguistics, language documentation, curriculum development, and community-based strategies for language transmission and maintenance.
    Field: Linguistics
    Career outcomes: language specialist, cultural coordinator, curriculum developer, researcher
  • Master of Environmental Management (Northern Environments) (MSc) — 24 months · English · $10,000/yr · STEM
    An advanced program focusing on the management of environmental resources and challenges specific to northern regions. Students develop expertise in environmental policy, impact assessment, and conservation strategies.
    Field: Environmental Management
    Career outcomes: environmental manager, conservation scientist, environmental policy maker, research scientist
  • Master of Northern Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $9,500/yr
    This interdisciplinary master's program offers advanced study in the social, environmental, and cultural aspects of the circumpolar North. Students engage in research on topics such as climate change, Indigenous knowledge, and resource development.
    Field: Northern Studies
    Career outcomes: researcher, policy advisor, program manager, consultant
  • Master of Environmental Management (Northern Environments) (MSc) — 24 months · English · $10,000/yr · STEM
    An advanced program focusing on the management of environmental resources and challenges specific to northern regions. Students develop expertise in environmental policy, impact assessment, and conservation strategies.
    Field: Environmental Management
    Career outcomes: environmental manager, conservation scientist, environmental policy maker, research scientist
  • Master of Northern Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $9,500/yr
    This interdisciplinary master's program offers advanced study in the social, environmental, and cultural aspects of the circumpolar North. Students engage in research on topics such as climate change, Indigenous knowledge, and resource development.
    Field: Northern Studies
    Career outcomes: researcher, policy advisor, program manager, consultant
  • Master of Education in Leadership and Learning (M.Ed.) — English
    This program is offered in conjunction with the University of Prince Edward Island, focusing on leadership and learning within the field of education.
    Field: Education

PhD Programs (5)

  • Arctic Engineering and Resource Development (PhD) — 48 months · English · $10,000/yr · STEM
    A doctoral program focused on innovative engineering solutions for resource extraction and infrastructure development in challenging Arctic environments. Research areas include permafrost engineering, cold regions hydrology, and sustainable energy systems.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: research scientist, university professor, senior engineer, environmental impact assessor
  • PhD in Northern Economic Development (PhD) — 48 months · English · $9,800/yr · STEM
    A research-intensive doctoral program focusing on sustainable economic development models for northern regions, including resource economics, Indigenous entrepreneurship, and policy frameworks for resilient northern economies. Students contribute to economic theory and practice.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: economic policy advisor, university professor, senior economist, development consultant
  • PhD in Circumpolar History and Culture (PhD) — 48 months · English · $9,500/yr
    This doctoral program offers advanced study and research into the historical trajectories, cultural expressions, and societal developments of circumpolar regions, with a focus on Indigenous perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches. Students conduct original historical and cultural research.
    Field: History
    Career outcomes: university professor, museum curator, archivist, cultural heritage specialist
  • PhD in Circumpolar Studies (PhD) — 48 months · English · $12,000/yr
    This doctoral program offers an opportunity for in-depth, interdisciplinary research on critical issues facing the circumpolar world. Students conduct original research under expert supervision, contributing to knowledge in areas such as climate change, Indigenous cultures, and sustainable development.
    Field: Circumpolar Studies
    Career outcomes: university professor, senior researcher, policy advisor, international development specialist
  • PhD in Circumpolar Studies (PhD) — 48 months · English · $12,000/yr
    This doctoral program offers an opportunity for in-depth, interdisciplinary research on critical issues facing the circumpolar world. Students conduct original research under expert supervision, contributing to knowledge in areas such as climate change, Indigenous cultures, and sustainable development.
    Field: Circumpolar Studies
    Career outcomes: university professor, senior researcher, policy advisor, international development specialist

Scholarships & Tuition at Northwest Territories-Nunavut College

✅ Northwest Territories-Nunavut College offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Campus & Facilities at Northwest Territories-Nunavut College

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses
  • Housing cost: ~$440/month

Key Highlights

  • Serves Canada's northernmost territories
  • Partnership between two regional colleges
  • Offers culturally relevant northern education
  • Focuses on distance learning technology
  • Supports Indigenous language and culture
  • Provides community based vocational training

Accreditation

  • Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan)

Notable Alumni

  • Stephen Kakfwi
  • Jim Antoine
  • Ethel Blondin-Andrew

Frequently Asked Questions about Northwest Territories-Nunavut College

What is Northwest Territories-Nunavut College?

Northwest Territories-Nunavut College is a public university located in Yellowknife, Canada. It has approximately 2,915 students.

What are the admission requirements for Northwest Territories-Nunavut College?

Application fee: $40. Application deadline: June 30.

What language are courses taught in at Northwest Territories-Nunavut College?

Courses at Northwest Territories-Nunavut College are taught in English.

How many programs does Northwest Territories-Nunavut College offer?

Northwest Territories-Nunavut College offers 56 programs: 25 Bachelor's, 10 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.

Does Northwest Territories-Nunavut College offer scholarships?

Yes, Northwest Territories-Nunavut College offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

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