Red Crow College
Red Crow College
Established in 1986, Mi'Kai'sto Red Crow College (RCC) emerged as the largest Tribal College, dedicated to providing adult education opportunities for community members. Nestled on the Kainai Nation reserve in southern Alberta, Canada, with a campus in Lethbridge, Red Crow College takes pride in its affiliation with the First Nation & Adult Higher Education Consortium. This non-profit organization, operating in Western Canada, unites its members' efforts to deliver exceptional adult and higher education programs, exclusively controlled by individuals from the First Nations community.
As a Canadian member of the esteemed American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC), Red Crow College stands among a community of tribally and federally chartered institutions striving to empower tribal nations and make a lasting impact on the lives of American Indians and Alaska Natives. Red Crow College was born out of the imperative to address the higher education needs of American Indians, particularly those residing in geographically isolated regions without access to educational opportunities beyond the high school level.
At its core, Mi'Kai'sto Red Crow College holds a steadfast mission to cater to the cultural, educational, and training requirements of the Kainaiwa community and beyond. By offering a diverse range of programs and resources, RCC is committed to nurturing the growth, knowledge, and skills of its students, ensuring their preparedness for success in both personal and professional endeavors.
Programs in Red Crow College
The Niitsitapi Health Care Aide Program prepares students to become valued members of the healthcare team. Through this one-year certificate program, graduates acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to provide essential health services, assistance, and support to individuals with medical conditions or functional limitations. Building on this foundation, the Niitsitapi Basic Science Program (NBSP) at Red Crow College offers a pathway for students interested in further studies in science. By completing NBSP, students gain a solid foundation in scientific principles, setting the stage for deeper exploration in science-related programs at other institutions.
In addition to health care and science programs, Red Crow School offers specialized diploma programs that promote cultural understanding and resilience. The Indigenous Mental Health Diploma (IMHD) focuses on intergenerational trauma, psychological disorders, and the impact of colonialism on community well-being. By centering on Indigenous practices, the IMHD fosters a holistic approach to healing and well-being based on the Blackfoot worldview. Moreover, the Indigenous Language and Culture Diploma (ILCD) aims to reclaim and revitalize Indigenous languages, particularly the Blackfoot language, while strengthening cultural heritage.
For those interested in the field of education, the Niitsitapi Education Assistant Certificate (NEAC) at Red Crow school prepares students to work alongside teachers and education professionals, supporting the cognitive, psychological, and social development of students with exceptionalities. This 10-month full-time program provides specialized training for education assistants, enabling them to contribute effectively to K-12 educational settings. For students with aspirations to pursue a degree at the university level, the 2 + 2 Niitsitapi Arts and Science Diploma program at Red Crow College offers a seamless transition. Through course transfer credits, students can progress smoothly to university programs and select majors that align with their professional goals.
Throughout their academic journey, Red Crow Community College provides support to students aspiring to join professional programs with specific admission criteria. Personal interviews with a Post-Secondary Counselor are conducted during the application process, ensuring guidance tailored to individual aspirations.
The Niitsitapi Environmental Science Certificate (NESC) program at Red Crow College explores the intricate relationship between living organisms and their environment. Through the study of various ecosystems, including terrestrial, aquatic, and arboreal, students gain a comprehensive understanding of their functioning. The program incorporates hands-on experience in collecting and analyzing air, soil, and water samples, as well as delves into environmental policy, site assessment, and the remediation and reclamation of contaminated sites.
In the Niitsitapi Literacy & Adult Upgrading Program at Red Crow College, learners are provided with meaningful educational opportunities that foster a successful educational journey. The program serves as a bridge to post-secondary enrollment and prepares students for the pursuit of higher education. It offers a pathway to complete high school requirements, enabling students to earn their diploma or fulfill the necessary prerequisites for post-secondary studies. Culturally and academically, the program equips students with the tools to embrace transformative learning experiences.
For those interested in the livestock industry, the Niitsitapi Livestock Production Certificate at Red Crow College offers a comprehensive training program. Combining online modules with hands-on instruction, students gain essential knowledge in livestock production systems, handling techniques, facility and equipment management, pasture and grazing practices, nutrition and feeding, as well as health and disease management.
Red Crow College's Indigenous Bachelor of Social Work (IBSW) program is an authorized degree program that incorporates Indigenous knowledge to the profession of social work. With a focus on incorporating traditional Indigenous perspectives into practice, graduates of this program are equipped to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. The IBSW program integrates Indigenous ways of knowing and learning, ensuring graduates meet the highest standards of the Alberta Teacher Quality Standards.
Red Crow College proudly introduces the Niitsitapi Teacher Education Program (NTEP), a unique and innovative program rooted in the Niitsitapi Ways of Living and Learning. Starting in September 2022, this program blends traditional Indigenous teachings with formal western educational perspectives and pedagogy. Graduates of NTEP will earn a Bachelor of Education Degree and will be eligible to apply for Alberta Education Teacher Certification. Red Crow Community College welcomes all prospective students to apply and embark on a transformative journey to become qualified educators.
Accommodation
As international students embark on their educational journey at Red Crow College in Stand Off and Lethbridge, Alberta, finding suitable housing becomes a vital consideration. While Red Crow College currently does not provide dedicated accommodation services for overseas students, there are alternative options available to fulfill their housing needs. In this article, we will explore various accommodation avenues that international students can consider while pursuing their education at Red Crow College.
Red Crow College recognizes the importance of finding suitable off-campus housing options for international students. Though the college does not currently offer on-campus accommodation facilities, students can explore a wide range of off-campus housing opportunities in the surrounding areas. These options include rentals, shared apartments, and rooms with roommates, allowing students to create a comfortable living environment outside of the college campus.
An alternative to traditional housing arrangements is to consider living with a homestay family. Homestays provide international students with the opportunity to live with a local family, immersing themselves in the Canadian culture and improving their language skills. This arrangement fosters a supportive environment where students can experience a sense of belonging and gain a deeper understanding of the local community. Homestay costs in the area range from approximately $800 CAD to $1,200 CAD per month, depending on factors such as location and included amenities.
Renting an apartment or house is another popular option for international students. Off-campus rentals provide students with the freedom and independence to create their own living space. Rental costs in the area vary depending on factors such as location, size, and amenities. Generally, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $900 CAD to $1,500 CAD, while a two-bedroom apartment may cost between $1,200 CAD and $2,000 CAD per month.
Future Prospects after study in Red Crow College
An invaluable advantage awaiting graduates of Red Crow College is the eligibility to apply for a post-graduation work visa program. Through this program, graduates gain valuable work experience within Canada, enriching their skills and knowledge in their respective fields of study. Embracing the post-graduation work visa program allows graduates to contribute their practical expertise to Canada's workforce, fostering personal growth and professional development.
Another noteworthy pathway for Red Crow College graduates lies in the potential to obtain permanent resident status in Canada. The educational background and acquired skills garnered during their time at Red Crow College play a vital role in qualifying for permanent residency. Acquiring permanent resident status offers individuals the opportunity to establish a perpetual life in Canada, with access to an array of social benefits and government services. It serves as a significant milestone towards forging a stable and prosperous future within the country.
A multitude of graduates opt to make Canada their permanent abode, enticed by the nation's affluence and abundant opportunities. Canada's thriving economy and diverse industries render it an appealing destination for those seeking enduring career prospects. Red Crow College graduates, equipped with the knowledge and skills honed during their education, find themselves favorably positioned to secure employment in their chosen fields and contribute to Canada's workforce. Moreover, the welcoming environment and an array of advantages bestowed by Canada create an idyllic setting to establish roots and embark upon a lifelong journey of growth and prosperity.
For graduates aspiring to solidify their presence in Canada, Canadian citizenship emerges as a tangible possibility. Citizenship bestows numerous benefits, including the right to vote, access to an array of government programs and services, and the capacity to actively engage in Canadian society. It symbolizes a profound connection to the country, unlocking new avenues for personal and professional advancement.
In case, if you need help with Custodianship and Homestay in order to study in Red Crow College or other schools in Canada, please fill in application below or contact us directly.
