While not lab-based, the department offers dedicated Indigenous spaces and research hubs:

• Indigenous Student Supports: Connects Indigenous students to wellness, peer, and cultural supports
• McMaster Indigenous Research Institute (MIRI): Supports Indigenous-led research across disciplines
• Indigenous Knowledge Centre (Six Nations): Houses sacred texts and artifacts in partnership with Six Nations Polytechnic
• Indigenous Health Learning Lodge: Supports Indigenous health education, leadership, and cultural safety
• Feast Centre: Advances Indigenous STBBI research through community-led scholarship and training

Students learn through storytelling, ceremony, and community-engaged research.

Students gain hands-on experience through placements, research, and community collaboration:

Key highlights:

• Land-based learning courses and workshops
• Experiential Learning Course (INDIGST 704) for graduate students
• Elder-in-Residence Program for cultural mentorship
• Graduate students choose between a Major Research Paper or Community-Based Research Project
• Opportunities to work with Indigenous organizations and local communities

These experiences foster deep engagement with Indigenous knowledge and prepare students for careers in education, policy, advocacy, and community development.

While rooted in local Indigenous contexts, students can explore global Indigenous issues and cross-cultural learning:

Key highlights:

• Courses on Indigenous peoples worldwide and global Indigenous movements
• Opportunities to attend conferences and symposia on Indigenous research
• Partnerships with Indigenous scholars and institutions across Canada
• Funding support through fellowships and bursaries for research and travel

These experiences help students connect Indigenous knowledge to global conversations on justice, sustainability, and cultural survival.

Indigenous Studies offers a vibrant and inclusive community for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students alike:

Key highlights:

• Students are able to join programs such as Indiginerds, Ohneganos, and Indigenous Health Research Development Program (IHRDP)
• Indigenous Students Services: Supports Indigenous learners through advising, events, and community spaces
• Cooperative of Indigenous Students Studies & Alumni: Promotes Indigenous culture, community, and student advocacy at McMaster
• McMaster’s Indigenous Education Council:  Guides Indigenous education strategy and supports inclusion at McMaster

Students are encouraged to build relationships, reflect on identity, and contribute to Indigenous resurgence and reconciliation.