-
About Us
-
Future Students
- Indigenous Admissions Access Category - Undergraduate Admissions
- Graduate School and Second-Entry Admissions
- Master of Physical Therapy - Indigenous Applicant Pathway
-
Admission Scholarships for Indigenous Students
-
Book a Campus Tour
-
National Indigenous Scholarship Program
- Indigenous Student STEM Access Program
-
Supports
-
Finances
-
Student Life
-
Youth Outreach
Search Website
Mini-University Program
The Mini-University Program is a week-long summer experience that introduces Indigenous youth ages 11-17 to post-secondary learning and campus life at Western. Ran by the Indigenous Student Centre, the program offers a welcoming, supportive, and culturally grounded environment where youth can explore post-secondary learning.
Through hands-on activities, interactive sessions, and cultural teachings, participants engage with Indigenous mentors, Western faculty, and campus spaces. Youth are introduced to a wide range of academic areas and creative programming that encourage creativity, build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop an awareness of future educational and career pathways after high school.
Registration Information
Registration for Mini-University Summer Camp opens in April 2027!
Mini-University will be offered in person in 2027, with 30 spots available in each program stream.2027 Program Dates
Otter Program (Ages 11-13): July 12-16, 2027 (DAY CAMP, running 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)Crane Program (Ages 14-17): August 3-6, 2027 (OVERNIGHT CAMP)
Contact Information
Mini-University Team: isc.miniu@uwo.caMini-University in Action
Discover how Indigenous youth connect with campus, culture, and future pathways through Western’s Mini-University Program. Read about the impact of this summer experience while exploring post-secondary education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Otter Program (Ages 11–13)
The Otter program runs Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., during the week of July 12–16, 2027.Crane Program (Ages 14–17)
The Crane program runs Tuesday to Friday, during the week of August 3–6, 2027. Participants check in during the afternoon of August 3 and stay in residence for the duration of the camp.All Mini-University programming takes place on Western University's campus in London, Ontario. Families will receive the exact locations, along with arrival, departure and accommodation details (where applicable), in their registration package upon acceptance into the program.
Mini-University Mentors facilitate fun and engaging activities such as tie-dying, wood and rock painting, slime-making, swimming, icebreaker games, and movie nights. Cultural teachings are shared throughout the week, including medicine walks, fire teachings, and other programming, all hosted by local Knowledge Keepers.
Participants also take part in hands-on, faculty-led sessions. In previous years, sessions have included Earth Science, Engineering, Astronomy, Computer Science, Indigenous Studies, Media Studies, Arts & Humanities, Health Sciences, and more!
Participants also take part in hands-on, faculty-led sessions. In previous years, sessions have included Earth Science, Engineering, Astronomy, Computer Science, Indigenous Studies, Media Studies, Arts & Humanities, Health Sciences, and more!
Once registration closes, we will be in touch to inform guardians if the youth they have signed up has been selected to attend Mini-University 2027.
Otter Program (Ages 11–13)
A $50 participation fee is required and must be paid in advance of the start of camp.Crane Program (Ages 14–17)
A $80 participation fee is required and must be paid in advance of the start of camp.
