American Indian Studies

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Requirements


Gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories and contemporary issues. Learn how to advocate for Indigenous rights and stay informed on current affairs and conversations surrounding Native American nations.

Description

The concentration in American Indian studies offers a comprehensive exploration of the histories, cultures and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous peoples. This interdisciplinary program draws from history, sociology, anthropology and cultural studies to provide a nuanced understanding of Indigenous experiences.

Students examine traditions, languages and worldviews while critically assessing the impacts of colonization and globalization. Courses cover Indigenous sovereignty, cultural resilience, environmental justice and the arts, fostering a holistic view of Indigenous societies.

The program promotes personal growth and a commitment to social justice, empowering students to advocate for Indigenous rights and cultural preservation. Students join a vibrant community dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices and fostering a more inclusive society.

Requirements

  • Students must complete a minimum of 18 credit hours, including 12 hours of upper division courses.
  • A minimum of 9 hours must be taken in courses offered by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
  • All courses must be completed with a grade of "C" (2.00).
  • Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements for this concentration.
  • Students completing Upper Division Navajo Language courses can apply credits to electives with a DARS exception request, see your advisor for assistance.

Required Courses - 9 credit hours

AIS 180: Introduction to American Indian Studies (SOBE) 
AIS 285: Federal Indian Policy (CIVI) 
AIS 380: Contemporary Issues of American Indian Nations 

Upper Division Minor Electives

AIS 320: American Indian Philosophies and World Views (HUAD)

AIS 360: Issues in Urban Indian Country
AIS 381: American Indian Women
AIS 385: Entrepreneurship for American Indian Sustainability
AIS 440: Cultural Professionalism
AIS 455: Human Rights and Cultural Resource Laws
AIS 470: Tribal Governance
AIS 480: Actualizing Decolonization
AIS 484: Internship
AIS 499: Individualized Instruction
ENG 359: Indigenous American Literature
HST 337: American Indian History to 1900 (HUAD)
HST 338: American Indian History since 1900 (HUAD)

YEAR

2025-26

CAMPUS

Tempe

ADVISING

Interdisciplinary Studies Advising
cisa.asu.edu/advising
All appointments:
480-965-4464

Downtown Phoenix
Arizona Center, Suite 380

Polytechnic
Santa Catalina Hall

Tempe
Urban Systems Engineering

Online
480-965-4464

DARS CODE

LAAISEMPH

COLLEGE/SCHOOL

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

CONCENTRATION CONTACT

American Indian Studies Program | DISCVRY 356
480‐727‐7056
AIS@asu.edu