Teaching in the Northwest Territories (NWT) means more than delivering lessons — it means becoming part of a community where education is deeply rooted in tradition, respect, and connection to the land. From remote villages to regional centers, teachers in the NWT play a fundamental role in supporting Indigenous languages, cultures, and ways of knowing. If you’re passionate about inclusive, culturally responsive education and open to adventure, teaching in the North offers a chance to make a lasting difference — in your students’ lives and your own. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a teacher in the Northwest Territories and highlight the unique opportunities awaiting educators in the region.
Quick Facts:
A recognized B.Ed. is required for certification
Certification is issued by the Registrar, Teacher Certification, NWT Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Deep integration of Indigenous languages, cultures, and land-based learning
Priority hiring for teachers with knowledge of or experience in Indigenous education
To teach in the NWT, you must hold:
A recognized Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree
Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
A clean criminal record and vulnerable sector check
While there are no universities offering full B.Ed. programs in the NWT, students typically pursue their education in other provinces. Programs that include Indigenous education, northern placements, or land-based practicums are especially relevant.
Many NWT residents pursue teacher education through partnerships with southern universities. Some examples include:
University of Saskatchewan’s ITEP (Indian Teacher Education Program)
University of Alberta's Aboriginal Teacher Education Program
University of Regina (including partnerships through Aurora College for upgrading or initial coursework)
Teacher education programs at any accredited Canadian university can qualify you to teach in the Northwest Territories. Further information on the various paths to teacher certification in Canada is available in our other blog posts.
Once you’ve completed your education, you can apply for certification through the NWT Department of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE). The online certification system (CertifiED NWT) is for both new applications and recertifications for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 (JK-12) educators.
You’ll need:
Your official transcripts
Proof of teacher education program completion
A valid teaching certificate from another Canadian province
A criminal record and vulnerable sector check
Completed application form (available through the CertifiED NWT website)
Internationally trained educators must have their credentials assessed before applying for certification.
The Northwest Territories is home to 11 official languages — 9 of which are Indigenous. This cultural richness is at the heart of the territory’s education system. Teachers in the NWT can expect to:
Incorporate Indigenous perspectives into daily teaching
Participate in on-the-land education alongside Elders and local Knowledge Keepers
Support language revitalization programs (such as Slavey, Gwich’in, and Inuktitut)
Work in close partnership with Indigenous communities and families
Use Northern Studies curriculum materials developed in consultation with Indigenous leaders
Teachers who embrace Indigenous worldviews and culturally responsive practices will find rewarding, meaningful work in schools across the territory.
Northern Living Allowances and competitive salaries
Small class sizes and strong school-community connections
Opportunities for professional development in Indigenous education
A chance to live and work in some of Canada’s most stunning natural landscapes
Relocation support and possible subsidized housing in remote communities
A teaching career in the Northwest Territories is a calling for those who value cultural learning, community connection, and educational equity. Whether you're drawn by a passion for land-based learning or a commitment to Indigenous education, the NWT offers a truly unique and fulfilling teaching experience.
*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.