SASKATOON -- Would-be lawyers in Nunavut will be getting a chance to study the legal profession through a southern university.

Nunavut Arctic College in Iqaluit plans to offer a four-year degree through the University of Saskatchewan starting in the fall of 2017.

The government of Nunavut chose the university in Saskatoon from several others it was considering.

Nunavut's education minister, Paul Quassa, says the goal is to increase the number of practising lawyers in the territory.

Design and delivery of the program is to be developed over the next year.

There will be 25 spots available for students from across Nunavut.

Quassa says education is a top priority in the government of Nunavut's current mandate.