American Indian Studies ,BS
American Indian, American Indian Nations, Cultural Studies, Culture, Diversity, Indigenous Populations, Native American, Native American Religions, Native Peoples, Tribal, Tribal Communities, Tribes, indian, sovereign nations
Explore the rich histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples, delving into topics such as sovereignty and identity, while developing your skills in research and advocacy. Prepare for an impactful career that champions Indigenous rights and promotes cultural understanding.
The Bachelor of Science program in American Indian studies offers a comprehensive exploration of the laws and policies, histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples in North America. This interdisciplinary program combines insights from anthropology, history, sociology and cultural studies to provide a deep understanding of Indigenous experiences and perspectives.
Students engage in critical analysis of topics such as tribal sovereignty, cultural resilience and social justice while prioritizing Indigenous knowledge. The curriculum includes hands-on learning opportunities, community engagement and collaboration with Indigenous organizations.
This degree fosters a commitment to social justice and cultural awareness, empowering students to become informed allies and advocates for Indigenous rights.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
- First required math course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
- Math
intensity: General
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
First-year
| Transfer
| International
| Readmission
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.
Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:
- Critically analyze a historical and contemporary issue related to American Indian nations & American Indian populations.
- Evaluate how sovereign powers are exerted through policy, law, and action by American Indian nations.
- Conduct research in the histories, cultures, political issues, or contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples, utilizing interdisciplinary approaches from fields like anthropology, history, sociology, political science, and literature.
Through study abroad, students can connect with Indigenous cultures around the world and expand the lens through which they view North American Indigenous populations. They can learn alongside peers from other countries and develop professional skills that include teamwork and cross-cultural communication. Students can stay on track academically by completing courses while they are in one of more than 300 Global Education programs.
There is a positive career outlook for graduates with a BS in American Indian studies, with diverse employment opportunities across various fields. Graduates are equipped with essential skills in research, critical thinking and communication, preparing them for careers in education, social work, public policy, law, cultural resource management, museums and advocacy. They are well-equipped to work with Indigenous communities and nations, focusing on issues like sovereignty, social justice and cultural resurgence. Additionally, many find roles in non-profit organizations, governmental agencies and research institutions, addressing contemporary challenges Indigenous peoples confront. As awareness and appreciation for Indigenous perspectives continue to grow, demand for skilled professionals in these areas is expected to increase, offering a wide variety of fulfilling career paths.
Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
| Career | *Growth | *Median salary |
|---|---|---|
|
8.6%
|
$38,520
|
|
|
3.9%
|
$80,910
|
|
|
4.2%
|
$98,100
|
|
|
11.1%
|
$60,380
|
|
|
3.4%
|
$48,090
|
|
|
4.6%
|
$31,680
|
|
|
4.6%
|
$99,030
|
|
|
9.1%
|
$74,240
|
|
|
8.1%
|
$34,440
|
|
|
3.3%
|
$36,680
|
American Indian Studies Program
|
DISCVRY 356
AIS@asu.edu
480-965-3634
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
