Aboriginal Teacher Education Program

The Aboriginal Teacher Education Program (ATEP) is a Bachelor of Elementary Education degree (B.Ed.) program within the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta.

The program works toward developing a greater understanding of Aboriginal culture and perspectives on teaching and learning, in all schools, but primarily in schools where Aboriginal children are learning.

Our goal is to improve the educational experiences of Aboriginal children by increasing the number of Aboriginal teachers, and teachers that choose to study in ATEP, with an understanding of Aboriginal worldviews, knowledge systems, histories, educational experiences, and ways of knowing and being.

The program has had tremendous success over the last 18 years, playing a vital and direct role in improving education for Aboriginal children in northern, northern eastern and central Alberta, through culturally appropriate teacher education. Over 95% of ATEP graduates are currently teaching, working in various leadership roles, or pursuing graduate studies.