Blog > Teaching In Canada

Becoming a Teacher in Yukon

Jun 10, 2025

Imagine teaching in a classroom where the curriculum connects directly to the land, where students learn through traditional knowledge and hands-on experiences in their communities. Picture yourself in a tight-knit school where relationships with students, families, and Elders are at the heart of learning. Teaching in Yukon offers a unique and rewarding experience, blending strong academic foundations with Indigenous knowledge, small class sizes, and a strong sense of community. If you're considering a teaching career in the North, this guide will walk you through the education and certification process, as well as the benefits of teaching in this vast and beautiful territory.

Education Requirements

To become a certified teacher in Yukon, you must complete a recognized Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program. Unlike most provinces, Yukon does not have its own university with a standalone teacher education program. The Yukon Native Teacher Education Program (YNTEP) is credentialed by the University of Regina. Alternatively, students in the territory can begin their studies through partnerships with universities in British Columbia or other Canadian provinces.

Where Can You Study?

Yukon University offers a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) - YNTEP in partnership with the University of Regina.
Studying Outside Yukon – Many aspiring teachers choose to complete their B.Ed. in another province, with British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario being common destinations.

Similar to other provinces, completing a teacher practicum is a requirement to gain certification in Yukon.

Studying Outside Yukon and Returning

If you complete your B.Ed. outside the territory, you must ensure that your program meets the requirements of the Yukon Teacher Certification Board. Most graduates follow these steps:

Complete a recognized B.Ed. program in another province.
Obtain teacher certification from that province’s regulatory body (e.g., British Columbia’s Teacher Regulation Branch).
Apply for a Yukon teaching certificate through the Yukon Department of Education (requirements often align with British Columbia’s standards).
If necessary, complete additional coursework or qualifications to meet Yukon’s certification criteria.

Certification Process

Once you have completed your education, you must apply for certification to teach in Yukon. Since Yukon does not have a standalone teacher education program, you will obtain certification from the jurisdiction

Steps to Certification in Yukon:

Obtain a Teaching Certificate – Apply for teacher certification in the province or territory where you completed your B.Ed. (unless you are a graduate of a Yukon University teacher education program).
Apply for Yukon Certification – Submit an application to the Yukon Teacher Certification Board with:

Proof of teacher certification
Official transcripts and degree verification
A current criminal record check
Proof of Canadian citizenship or work authorization
Any additional documentation required by Yukon Education

Receive Your Yukon Teaching Certificate – Once approved, you will be eligible to teach in Yukon schools.

Teacher and two students

Indigenous Education in Yukon

Education in Yukon is deeply connected to Indigenous culture, languages, and ways of knowing. Many schools incorporate land-based learning, Indigenous language programs, and partnerships with First Nations communities to provide a holistic education. As a teacher in Yukon, you may have opportunities to:

Work in schools with strong Indigenous leadership and curriculum integration.
Engage with Elders and Knowledge Keepers to bring traditional perspectives into the classroom.
Participate in land-based education, where students learn through activities like fishing, trapping, and traditional crafts.
Support Indigenous language revitalization through programs across Yukon.

Teachers who have experience or training in Indigenous education, culturally responsive teaching, or First Nations curriculum development may find additional job opportunities in Yukon schools.

Benefits of Teaching in Yukon

Teaching in Yukon offers unique opportunities and benefits:

Smaller Class Sizes – More individualized attention for students and stronger classroom relationships.
Competitive Salaries – Teachers in Yukon earn salaries that are among the highest in Canada, with additional northern living allowances.
Indigenous and Cultural Education – Strong focus on Indigenous perspectives, language programs, and land-based learning.
Relocation and Housing Support – Some communities offer relocation assistance and subsidized teacher housing.
Adventure and Lifestyle – Stunning wilderness, outdoor recreation, and a close-knit community make Yukon an appealing destination for teachers looking for a unique lifestyle.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Teaching in Yukon is an exciting and rewarding career choice. With smaller class sizes, a strong emphasis on Indigenous education, and competitive benefits, educators have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while experiencing the unique beauty and culture of the North. Whether you're drawn to land-based learning, working in close-knit communities, or supporting Indigenous language revitalization, Yukon offers a teaching experience unlike any other.

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