First Nations Technical Institute

As an Indigenous-owned and governed post-secondary institute, the First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI) infuses First Nations, Métis and Inuit world views, knowledge and values into its programs. The programs incorporate Indigenous learning methodologies in the classroom and involve Elders in learning sessions and ceremonies. 

The institute has a campus and student residence on the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. The Tyendinaga Aerodrome features classrooms, simulation technology and aircraft hangars, and houses the First Peoples’ aviation technology program; graduates leave with a commercial pilot licence. This is the country’s only post-secondary aviation training program designed particularly for First Nations, Métis and Inuit learners. The school is gearing up fundraising campaigns for a 50,000-square-foot net-zero campus.

With the exception of the aviation program, all classes at FNTI are delivered using an intensive delivery cycle, meaning an entire course takes place in four weeks: one week is dedicated to live instruction while the other three follow a flexible schedule, allowing students to meet work and life commitments. The institute offers diplomas in social service, mental health and addiction, early childhood education and personal support work. It also offers a bachelor of arts in public administration and governance, a master’s in social work and a professional master’s in public administration through a partnership with Queen’s University.

Quick facts

School size:
Small

Tuition:
Degree $4,000-$5,500
Diploma $3,300-$4,900
Certificate $3,900-$4,800
Post-Grad $7,200

Residence offerings:
Yes

Popular programs

​​Social Service Worker Diploma
Mental Health and Addiction Worker Diploma
Early Childhood Education Diploma
First Peoples’ Aviation Technology—Flight Advanced Diploma
Bachelor of Social Work
Public Administration and Indigenous Governance

Cool options

First Peoples’ Aviation Technology—Flight: Courses cover flight and simulator training, navigation, radio operation and the requirements for private and commercial pilot licences.

Indigenous Social Work: Among FNTI’s new stand-alone degree programs underpinned by Indigenous principles and world views, this bachelor’s degree supports the improvement of family services systems to be child- and family-centred, community-directed and focused on prevention and early intervention.

Indigenous Relations: Students learn the history of Indigenous relations and increase their understanding of Indigenous nation-to-nation relations within Canada, while enhancing their sensitivity and understanding of their own accountability moving forward.