The Centre for Indigenous Support and Community Engagement helps Indigenous students thrive — academically, culturally and personally. Whether you’re looking for mentorship, academic guidance or a place to connect with the community, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
2026 Inuit Arctic Exchange
Are you interested in land-based learning, part of the Carleton University community, and Inuk? While applications for the INDG 4015: Pathways from Land to Nunavut Devolution Course have closed, you are still able to apply to attend the Arctic Exchange trip here.
Journalism in Indigenous Communities
Do you want to be part of the new wave of Indigenous journalists and media storytellers making a difference in Indigenous communities and newsrooms across Turtle Island?
Journalism in Indigenous Communities is a 4.5 credit program that lasts 9 months and is open to students who have completed an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Consideration will be extended to other applicants under Mature Applicant regulations.
Academic Supports
Offering a range of supports to help Indigenous students succeed in their studies, from personalized advising to culturally grounded mentorship. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident, capable and connected throughout your academic journey.
How we can support you:
- Applying to Carleton University
- The Indigenous Enriched Support Program (IESP)
- Meet with the Indigenous Academic Advisor
- Writing and Study Skills Support Workshops
- Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program
- Connect with the Paul Menton Center (PMC)
- Check out the supports offered at The Centre for Student Academic Support (CSAS)
- Reach out for Mediation Support if you do not feel supported in your classes
Reach out to the CISCE team to discuss your academic goals or challenges at indigenous@carleton.ca.
Cultural Supports
Cultural connection is at the heart of the Indigenous student experience at Carleton. CISCE offers access to ceremony, community, and learning opportunities that help students feel grounded and supported in their identities.
How we can support you:
- Coming to Ojigkwanong Centre
- Attending Weekly Programming and CISCE Events
- Advising on Weekly Programming
- Providing access to ceremonial/smudge-friendly spaces on campus
- Individual Culturally-Relevant Counselling
- Indigenous Student Mediation Sessions
- See the work being discussed through the Indigenous Education Council (IEC)
Upon request, students can also seek an individual meeting with one of the knowledge keepers/elders who work with the Centre. For more information, please email indigenous@carleton.ca.
Community Supports
Building connections with peers, mentors, and the wider Indigenous community is essential for student success and well-being. CISCE helps you find belonging, leadership opportunities, and meaningful engagement on campus and beyond.
How we can support you:
- Mentorship Program: Pair up with student mentors who can guide you academically, professionally, and personally
- Chat with our Team to connect you with specific supports
Financial Supports
- CU Awards for Indigenous Students
- Indspire Busary
- Indigenous Bursaries Search Tool
- KPMG Indigenous Student Programs
- CU Budget Calculator
Employment Opportunities
- Job postings
- For additional employment support, please visit Kagita Mikam.
Off-Campus Supports
- Minwaashin Lodge: Support for Indigenous women and families, including counselling, advocacy, and crisis support
- Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health: Health services including medical care, mental health support, and wellness programming for Indigenous peoples
- Oshki Kizis Women’s Shelter: Provides safe shelter and culturally grounded support for Indigenous women in crisis
- Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program – Congress of Aboriginal Peoples: Offers training, employment programs, and career counselling for Indigenous students and job seekers
- Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition: Supports Indigenous youth, students, and families through community events, cultural programs, and advocacy
- Odawa Native Friendship Centre: Cultural programming, mentorship, and community services for Indigenous youth and students
- Inuuqatigiit: Fosters strong and proud Inuit children, youth and families
- Tungasuvvingat Inuit: An Inuit-specific urban services provider that offers community supports for Inuit of all ages
Learn more about other Ottawa Indigenous services.