Master of Arts in Indigenous Languages and Linguistics 
>> Program Requirements

Through the Master of Arts in Indigenous Languages and Linguistics (INLL MA), students receive training for careers as language researchers, post-secondary educators, and material developers, gaining expertise in communicative skills, language documentation, and analysis of a particular Indigenous language. Emphasis is placed on the language in its socio-cultural and educational setting. The learning model integrates Indigenous Ways of Knowing with linguistic analysis and documentation, featuring mentorship and participation in projects in addition to formal lectures and paper writing. Courses are taught by teams of Elders and knowledge holders, and academic experts on the language.

The program is offered through a combination of SFU campus and Indigenous community-based course modules. In order to accommodate the work schedules of participants who are language teachers in public schools, or who are otherwise fully employed, courses will be offered in late afternoons, evenings and during summer breaks, in concentrated modules during fall and spring terms. 

Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Languages and Linguistics
>> Program Requirements

The Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Languages and Linguistics (INLL GC) offers training to students for careers as language researchers, post-secondary educators, and material developers. Students gain expertise in communicative skills, language documentation and analysis of a particular Indigenous language. Emphasis is placed on the language in its socio-cultural and educational setting. The learning model integrates Indigenous Ways of Knowing with linguistic analysis and documentation, featuring mentorship and participation in projects in addition to formal lectures and paper writing. Courses are taught by a team of Elders and knowledge holders and academic experts on the language.

The cohort programs are offered on site in an Indigenous language community, or through a combination of on-campus and community-based course modules. In order to accommodate the work schedules of participants who are language teachers in public schools, or who are otherwise fully employed, courses are offered in late afternoons, evenings, during summer breaks, or in concentrated modules.

How to Apply

Application window
Please note that applications to the graduate program are now closed. Our next application cycle will open mid-October 2026 and close mid-January 2027. Successful applicants will begin the program in September 2027. 

Apply Online Using GOGRAD
Please prepare your application information and supporting documents as described here. Once you are prepared, see the Graduate Studies Apply Online webpage. 

Submit supporting documentation
See this link to understand which documentation you need. Remember to order official transcripts from your current and past academic institutions as soon as you receive an admission offer from SFU Graduate Studies. Note that you must wait to provide supporting documentation until after you receive an offer of admission. 

Questions
Contact the Graduate Program Secretary inllgrad@sfu.ca for more information on the application process and which additional documents to submit to the Indigenous Languages Program Graduate Admission Committee. 

Email subject line
When emailing the Graduate Program Secretary inllgrad@sfu.ca please use the following format for the subject:
[Year & term -  Program name  -  Your name]

Health and dental benefit plan
Students are automatically enrolled into the SFU Graduate Student Society health and dental benefits plan. If you have extended health and dental coverage and wish to opt out, please complete the Opt Out form before the end of the Change of Coverage Period (generally before the end of Week 2 of Classes). See also the Graduate Benefit Plan FAQ page.