COURSE CURRICULUM

The Niigaaniiwin—The Art of Leading Specialization within the Bachelor of Business Administration or Business Administration joint-major program at Trent University is designed to develop leadership skills grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems, reconciliation, and community-centered approaches to governance and development. To complete this specialization, students must earn 3.5 credits with a minimum grade of 65% in each course, ensuring strong academic engagement with Indigenous perspectives and leadership studies. The program includes 1.0 INDG credit focusing on foundational learning in reconciliation and modern Indigenous life, providing essential context for understanding Indigenous histories, identities, and contemporary issues. The remaining 2.5 credits are selected from a wide range of courses covering Indigenous environmental studies, community development, economic systems, governance, language, law, and cultural knowledge. Topics include Indigenous-state relationships, Indigenous resurgence, environmental knowledge systems, urban Indigenous issues, Indigenous law and rights, gender and social relations, and Indigenous approaches to business and organizational leadership. Overall, this specialization emphasizes ethical leadership, cultural awareness, and community engagement, preparing students for careers in Indigenous organizations, public policy, social development, environmental management, and business leadership roles that require a strong understanding of Indigenous perspectives and reconciliation in Canada.