Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?
Contact Stella Fiddler for an application package. Include mailing address and telephone numbers (home and work).

What is the Bachelor of Education Program?
The Bachelor of Education program consists of 20 credits of coursework and 2 credits of practicum. Students will complete four courses per year and graduate five years after entry into the program.

When I graduate, will my degree be recognized by the Province of Ontario?
The degree will prepare you for recommendation to the Ontario College of Teachers for membership and you will receive Ontario Certification of Qualification to teach kindergarten to grade six anywhere in Ontario.

How many courses do I have to take if I have graduated from the Native Teacher Education Program (NTEP)?
Previous NTEP graduates will receive credit for some or all of the courses completed. Normally, NTEP graduates will need to complete 13 to 15 credits to complete this university program.

Where will courses be delivered?
Year one courses will be delivered face-to-face in a Sioux Lookout area lodging.  After the first year, a mixture of face-to-face and distance education technology will be introduced.

Is there a living allowance?
A small living allowance is provided when students are taking courses or practice teaching outside of their home community.

Is there assistance for child care?
NNEC is not able to provide financial support for childcare.

Are there courses during the summer?
Yes, there will be one course per season: fall, winter, spring and summer.

Can I interrupt my studies for personal reasons?
Students who leave the program for unapproved personal reasons may jeopardize their post secondary funding eligibility.

How long and how often will I have to leave my community?
Each course is three weeks of intensive study (Monday to Friday). Students will leave their community four times throughout the year.

May I enter the program if I am not currently working in a school?
Yes.

May I be accepted if I do not have a grade 12?
No. Applicants must be grade 12 graduates or have completed the General Educational Development (GED) program.

Must I submit a Criminal Record Check?
Upon acceptance into the program, applicants must complete a satisfactory criminal background check through the Ontario Education Services Corporation. School Boards require teacher candidates to complete this background screening prior to having direct contact with students. Otherwise schools will not allow teacher candidates to participate in practice teaching. In addition, the Ontario College of Teacher's requires a separate criminal background check before certification.
You can find more details about this requirement on the following page from the Ontario College of Teachers website.

Do I have to be able to speak Cree, Oji-Cree or Ojibway to be eligible for this program?
Preference is given to applicants who are fluent in Cree, Oji-Cree or Ojibway, or are willing to upgrade.

What are my job prospects upon completion of this program?
There are a variety of employment opportunities upon completion of this degree. This legally entitles the candidate to teach in any provincial school within Ontario, from kindergarten to grade 6. This degree also provides the opportunity for you to work with children and youth in many different settings.

What is the difference between a B.Ed. and a B.A.?
B. Ed. - Prepare teachers who are normally recommended to the Ontario College of Teachers for membership and to receive Ontario Certification of Qualification.
B.A. –Normally is the culmination of a 15 – 20 credit program with a concentration on 1 or 2 academic disciplines like History, Native Studies or English. Contact your post-secondary counselor for information and advice.

If I have a B.Ed. and I still want a B.A., what would I have to do and how long would it take?
Additional credits will be required and can be determined through the university of your choosing. Your post-secondary counsellor can provide additional information and advice.

Who do I contact if I have more questions?
The best way to get answers is to email SFiddler@nnec.on.ca  or call Stella toll free @ 1-800-465-3626, ext. 229.