Becoming a Teacher in Nunavut

Teaching in Nunavut offers a unique experience for educators. Picture a classroom where the walls stretch beyond the school building — out onto the tundra, into the heart of Inuit culture, and deep into community life. In this vast northern territory, educators are not only teachers but also learners, cultural ambassadors, and trusted community members. If you're passionate about Indigenous education and ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of northern teaching, this guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a certified teacher in Nunavut.

Quick Facts:

• A recognized Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) is required
• Certification is granted by the Nunavut Department of Education
• Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (traditional Inuit knowledge) is central to teaching and learning
• Strong demand for bilingual Inuktut-speaking teachers and culturally responsive educators

Education Requirements

To become a certified teacher in Nunavut, you need:

• A Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree from a recognized Canadian university or an equivalent program approved by Nunavut Education
• Completion of a teacher practicum
• A valid Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check
• Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency

Where Can You Study?

Nunavut does not currently offer a standalone B.Ed. program at its only post-secondary institution, Nunavut Arctic College, but it partners with southern universities to deliver teacher education in the territory. Prospective teachers can also complete their teacher education at any accredited university in Canada and subsequently apply for teacher certification in Nunavut.

Teachers in Nunavut often pursue their education through:

• Nunavut Teacher Education Program (NTEP) – offered through Nunavut Arctic College in partnership with Memorial University of Newfoundland
• NTEP is grounded in Inuit culture and includes Inuktut language development, Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles, and land-based learning
• The program is designed for Nunavummiut (residents of Nunavut) and delivered in communities across the territory
• B.Ed. programs from other Canadian provinces (particularly those with a northern or Indigenous education focus) are also accepted

Certification in Nunavut

Once you’ve completed your education, you’ll apply for certification through the Registrar of Teacher Certification at the Department of Education in Nunavut.

Documents required typically include:

• Completed application form (available from Nunavut Education)
• Official transcripts and proof of B.Ed. completion
• Verification of practicum or teaching experience
• Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check
• Proof of legal entitlement to work in Canada

Indigenous Education in Nunavut

Inuit knowledge, culture, and language are woven into every aspect of education in Nunavut. Teachers are expected to:

• Incorporate Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) principles into their teaching
• Embrace bilingual education, supporting Inuktut alongside English or French
• Collaborate with Elders, families, and community members
• Participate in land-based education that reflects traditional ways of life, such as hunting, sewing, or ice safety
• Respect and reflect Inuit values in classroom management and instructional strategies

Culturally responsive teaching and a deep appreciation for Inuit ways of knowing are essential for success in Nunavut classrooms.

Benefits of Teaching in Nunavut

• Competitive salaries with northern living and isolation allowances
• Small class sizes and strong community involvement
• Opportunities to learn and teach Inuktut
• Support for ongoing professional development, particularly in Indigenous education
• Subsidized housing or housing allowances in many communities
• The opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of Inuit youth
• Unparalleled opportunities for adventure and experiencing the unique Arctic environment.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Teaching in Nunavut is more than a job — it’s a commitment to reconciliation, cultural preservation, and community-building. If you're ready to listen, learn, and lead in one of Canada’s most unique educational environments, Nunavut might be the place for you.

*This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview, but certification requirements and processes may change. Always refer to official sources to confirm details before applying.

Learn more about the path to becoming a teacher in other Canadian provinces and territories. Click here!