the University College of the North (UCN) covers a catchment area in northern Manitoba that is roughly equal to the size of France. UCN offers a variety of degree, diploma, certificate and trades programs, as well as apprenticeship and academic upgrading programs. Program areas include education, nursing, carpentry, culinary arts and welding. UCN and the University of Manitoba jointly offer a four-year bachelor degree in nursing, which provides a community-based approach to health care. UCN accommodates its widespread student population—more than 70 per cent of which is Indigenous—with 12 regional centres and two larger campuses.

Nature lovers will find themselves right at home. The campus at The Pas is near Clearwater Lake Provincial Park, home to one of the clearest lakes in North America. The Thompson campus is set amid the Canadian Shield and boreal forest.

UCN emphasizes diversity and inclusivity. The school strives to include at least one Indigenous learning outcome per course. Each of UCN’s main campuses has an Indigenous centre that provides support services, including counselling from local Elders. UCN offers a certificate in teaching Ininímowin (Cree), the only post-secondary program taught entirely in Cree.