First Nations Technical Institute

Founded 1985 | Tyendinaga, ON

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 in “intense delivery mode,” meaning courses are delivered in one-week instruction periods. Outside of those weeks, learners are given space to meet their employment and family 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.

Popular Programs

• ​​Social Service Worker

• Mental Health and Addiction Worker

• Early Childhood Education

• Bachelor of Social Work

• First Peoples’ Aviation Technology—Flight

School Size

Small

Tuition

• Degree $3,980-$5,454

• Diploma $3,300-$4,210

• Certificate $4,824

• Post-Grad $6,795-$7,140

Residence Offerings

Yes

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.

• Standalone Programs: FNTI is designing standalone degree programs underpinned by Indigenous principles and world views. Some of the standalone streams in development include Indigenous Social Work, Indigenous Justice, Indigenous Midwifery, Indigenous Sustainable Food Systems, Indigenous Trauma Care and Indigenous Language.

• Micro-credentials: Developed as rapid training opportunities to help individuals gain skills or retrain, micro-credentials help communities prosper through knowledge, service and employment. Streams in development include Indigenous relations, addressing trauma to strengthen Indigenous communities, Indigenous justice, family violence worker and Indigenous community garden coordinator.