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. FNTI also tailors learning and in-community programs to fit each community’s specific needs. FNTI has worked with 112 communities in Ontario using this approach.

The institute has a campus and student residence on the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory for the aviation technology program. The Tyendinaga Aerodrome features classrooms, simulation technology and aircraft hangars; graduates leave with a commercial pilot licence. This is one of the few post-secondary aviation training programs 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 virtually 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.

In the fall of 2024, FNTI launched a bachelor of Indigenous social work, which will provide graduates to work in social work systems in Indigenous communities. 

School size:
Small

Tuition:
Degree $2,400-$7,500
Diploma $3,500-$5,200
Certificate $3,500-$4,100

Residence offerings:
Yes

Popular programs

​​First Peoples’ Aviation Technology—Flight Advanced Diploma
Social Service Worker Diploma
Mental Health and Addiction Worker Diploma
Early Childhood Education Diploma
Personal Support Worker Certificate 

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: One of 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-centred and community-directed. 
Indigenous Relations: Students learn the history of Indigenous relations and increase their understanding of Indigenous nation-to-nation relations within Canada, while learning to understand their own accountability.