Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program

Section 14.4 Program Description

Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program

(Pronounced: Gaa-Yay-Ree Knee-Gaa-Way-Raa-Geh)

Concordia University is proud to offer the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program for members of the Indigenous community, specifically First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples whose communities are located in Canada. Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke is a Kanienkéha term that translates to “the Four Winds” or “the Four Directions” which represent renewal, change, and a shift in the natural world.

This program is offered to prospective Indigenous students who wish to acquire the prerequisites needed for their desired undergraduate program, and to gain important skills and insight before they undertake university studies. Eligible Indigenous students who may not meet the normal admission requirements can access the undergraduate program of their choice at Concordia University through this bridging pathway.

Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program offers students a culturally safe space as they transition to university life and complete the prerequisite courses for the program of their choice. During their time in Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program, students will receive ongoing support as they build their capacity for academic success through targeted courses in academic writing, study skills and time management, and attend seminar courses that foster a strong sense of community.

Section 14.5 Admission as a Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program Student

Admission Requirements

At Concordia, the term “Bridging Student” is used to designate students who have not completed the normal academic admission requirements, and who are eligible for entry to a non-degree bridging program. Applicants whose academic background qualifies them for regular admission are not eligible for the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program.

Students apply for admission to programs within one of the four Faculties of the University, indicating their intention to be considered for and pursue the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program.

The admission of applicants for the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program is subject to the following conditions:

Applicants must be members of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples whose communities are located in Canada. Applicants must submit proof of Indigenous identity, citizenship, and age.
Although not meeting the normal academic requirements for admission, applicants must satisfy the University that they have the potential to undertake undergraduate courses.
Applicants must have been out of school — that is not engaged in full-time study — for at least 12 months since attaining the age of 18. Applicants who have been out of school for less than 12 months are also admissible provided that they have had no unfavourable academic record in the previous 12 months.
Applicants must submit school records and any material which may indicate ability to pursue university studies. Section 13 Admission Regulations provides general information on how to apply for admission.
Some students may require courses in English as a Second Language, as determined by language proficiency testing. See Section 13.4 Language Proficiency of this Calendar regarding language proficiency testing.

Section 14.6 Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program students must complete the requirements of the program prior to being admitted to the related undergraduate degree. The requirements may differ by Faculty and program. Refer to Calendar sections:

Faculty of Arts and Science: Section 31.002 Programs and Admission Requirements

John Molson School of Business: Section 61.20 Admission Requirements

Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science: Section 71.20.2 Alternative Entry Programs

The course sequence is intended to help students prepare for their subsequent studies. When selecting courses, students admitted to the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program are required to consult with the Bridging Program coordinator in the Student Success Centre.

Upon successful completion of the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program, students who are no longer interested in the related undergraduate degree program may submit an application to other degree or certificate programs for which they are qualified.