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Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program (SUNTEP)

About SUNTEP

SUNTEP was established in 1980. It is a four-year, fully accredited Bachelor of Education program, offered by the Gabriel Dumont Institute in cooperation with the Ministry of Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration, the University of Regina and the University of Saskatchewan. The program is offered in three urban centres—Prince Albert, Saskatoon, and Regina.

The SUNTEP program includes Native Studies and cross-cultural education with an emphasis on Métis and First Nations history and culture. The program also provides a solid foundation in the theories and skills of teaching. A substantial amount of time is spent in schools working with teachers and students. Most fieldwork is done in urban centres.

Since 1980, almost 1000 students have graduated with a Bachelor of Education Degree. SUNTEP graduates have gained excellent reputations as teachers and role models in schools across western Canada. Their training combines a sound academic education with extensive classroom experience and a thorough knowledge of issues facing students in our society.

The primary goals of SUNTEP are:

  • To ensure that people of Métis ancestry are well prepared to fill their just share of teaching positions in the province
  • To ensure that SUNTEP graduates are educated to be sensitive to the individual educational needs of all students, and those of Métis and First Nations ancestry in particular.

Funding

For qualified students of Métis ancestry, the program covers University tuition fees. To subsidize living expenses, most SUNTEP students borrow money from the Canada and Saskatchewan Student Loan programs while attending University.

Entrance Requirements

Applicants who meet the following standards are considered for admission into the SUNTEP program:

  • regular university entrance requirements (Grade 12 with a 65 % average (UofR) / 70% average (UofS) in approved courses); or
  • adult or special admission requirements (21 years of age or over, Adult 12 preferred).
     

Application

To apply to the SUNTEP program:

  • Complete an application form and submit three letters of reference, as described on the application form.
  • Submit a handwritten statement declaring your reasons for applying and outlining abilities you have to enter a professional training program.
  • Applications are due by May 1st

Applications are available from your Métis Local or visit the SUNTEP campus nearest you.

Selection

Applicants will be interviewed by a screening committee. Successful applicants should demonstrate:

  • A commitment to the program and a strong desire to work toward becoming an effective teacher;
  • A desire to work with children and adults in educational settings;
  • The ability and willingness to work full-time in a teacher training program and continue the program to its completion;
  • Experience working with Métis and First Nations children as a teacher associate or previous involvement in education (e.g. as a member of an education committee, a coach, or parent-teacher group) or other relevant work experience; and
  • Interest in learning about Aboriginal cultures and working with and for Métis and First Nations peoples.
     

Select SUNTEP Brochure , SUNTEP Application Form