In keeping with the mission of Cape Breton University, the Mi'kmaq College Institute strives to meet the needs of the Mi'kmaw communities of Mi'kma'ki, which includes Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and parts of New England. The Mi'kmaq College Institute has made it possible for Mi'kmaw students, educators, scholars, and researchers of Mi'kmaw cosmology to establish a curriculum and research agenda which contributes to the achievement of educational goals set by Mi'kmaw communities.
One goal of the Institute is to continue to develop, expand, and implement Mi'kmaw programs and services at Cape Breton University. With programs like Elmitek (access for First Nations students), the Mi'kmaq Science Advantage Program, and the Bachelor of Science Community Studies degree (Toqwa'tu'kl Kjijitaqnn/ Integrative Science option), Cape Breton University is setting the pace in post-secondary programming.
Programs are offered under the aegis of the academic schools of Cape Breton University with the co-operation of the Mi'kmaq College Institute. To complement the move toward educational achievement in the Mi'kmaq First Nation, the MCI will deliver programs in teacher training, court worker certification, business, Mi'kmaw language, health careers, and natural resources.
Among the programs offered by the Mi'kmaq College Institute are Elmitek, the Mi'kmaq Business Development Certificate, the Court Workers Certificate, the Certificate in Natural Resources, and the Mi'kmaq Science Advantage Program.
The Mi'kmaq Resource Centre houses documents such as academic theses, articles and scholarly papers, books, and cultural artifacts unique to Aboriginal history, consolidated and accessible in one location. Students at Cape Breton University, Mi'kmaw schools and educational institutions, Mi'kmaw social, cultural, and justice organizations, and those interested in Mi'kmaw issues, are encouraged to visit the Centre, where research assistance is available.
In addition, a Mi'kmaq Student Advisor, Patrick Johnson, is available for consultation with students. Working out of an office located in the MCI, Patrick is a valuable information source and a helpful contact for students, faculty and staff, educational counsellors, Mi'kmaw organizations, government departments and employers. The student advisor also arranges for Mi'kmaw tutors who can help with papers and recommend research materials. The Mi'kmaq Student Association organizes projects suggested by members, including an annual graduation banquet, cultural festivals, and special speakers.
You may contact us at: mci@cbu.ca
