Bachelor of Arts in American Indian Studies

The American Indian Studies Program offers an academic major at the undergraduate level and a minor at both the undergraduate and graduate level. This interdepartmental course of study examines Native North American cultural and social life, including economic, political, and educational systems. Historical and contemporary perspectives of American Indian experiences are included in this program. Students may choose an American Indian studies minor to complement a major field of study. Related disciplines include American studies, anthropology, art, ethnic studies, geography, history, law, music, philosophy, political science, and sociology. A minor in American Indian studies provides excellent preparation for teachers, researchers, social workers, health care providers, resource managers, economic developers, and legal practitioners. In addition to the skills acquired by students who earn an undergraduate minor degree in American Indian studies, students working toward a B.A. in American Indian Studies will study tribal governance, literature, history, environment and natural resource management, ways of knowing, and indigenous languages. Inherent in this degree's curriculum and related activities is the expectation that students and faculty will assume an active role in working with and for Indigenous communities. AIST requires it majors to earn a grade of C or better in all courses taken to fulfill the major.