Indigenous Education, MA
Program Description
Degree Awarded: MA Indigenous Education
The Master of Arts program in Indigenous education provides students with advanced training in research, theory and practice focused on Indigenous education, policy and the complexities of the schooling process. It is designed for individuals working with Indigenous students or in Indigenous education programs who want to advance community-driven goals related to Indigenous education.
The schooling process, as explored in this program, examines how education systems function, including curriculum design, teaching methodologies, institutional structures, and their intersection with cultural and community contexts. Students develop a nuanced understanding of how these elements relate to Indigenous knowledge systems and values, enabling them to identify and address systemic challenges while fostering environments that affirm and uplift Indigenous identities and perspectives.
This fully online program allows students to expand their career opportunities and enhance their impact without interrupting their professional lives. Courses promote active engagement, facilitate the formation of educational alliances, and build collaborative relationships that sustain dynamic and innovative learning environments.
Designed to address real-world community needs, the program prepares graduates to drive meaningful change and make a lasting impact on the future of Indigenous education.
Degree Requirements
Curriculum Plan Options
- 30 credit hours including the required capstone course (IED 585)
Required Core (12 credit hours)
IED 502 Indigenous Knowledges in Education (3)
IED 503 Current Issues in Indigenous Education (3)
IED 510 Indigenous Education and Justice (3)
IED 530 Indigenous Language Revitalization (3)
Other Requirements (3 credit hours)
IED 501 Critical Indigenous Research Methodologies (3) or
IED 535 Indigenous Participatory Action Research (3)
Electives (9 credit hours)
Research (3 credit hours)
IED 592 Research (3)
Culminating Experience (3 credit hours)
IED 585 Capstone (3)
Additional Curriculum Information
Students should see the academic unit for a complete list of electives.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field, such as history, education, anthropology, sociology, ethnic studies, justice studies or political science, from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- personal essay
- writing sample
- professional resume
- two letters of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
A selection committee comprising faculty members selects candidates based on their application materials and on their ability to succeed.
The two- to three-page personal essay should describe any prior research experience and training in education; the applicant's experience working with or for Indigenous communities; the professional goals and research interests of the applicant; and the fit between their interests and the program's emphases, requirements and coursework. If the applicant knows of any faculty who they would like to work with or whose research aligns with their interests, they should indicate that in the personal statement as well.
The 12- to 15-page writing sample can include a relevant policy paper or report, or a research paper from an academic course.
The letters of recommendation should comment on the applicant's motivation, commitment, achievements, work experience and opportunity for success in the program.
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Learning Outcomes
- Appraise and compose the parellels of historical Indigenous education and current schooling for American Indian students; using an evidence based approach to support their case.
- Articulate the contradictions and complexities between Western schooling and Indigenous educational processes for Native nations.
- Design and articulate Indigenous knowledge system(s), as it relates to education and schooling in Indian country
- Analyze research methods and methodologies through an Indigenous framework and compose their own research methodologies.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the MA program in Indigenous education are well prepared for diverse career opportunities in roles that advance Indigenous education and community goals. Potential career paths include:
- community development: leaders in nonprofits or tribal organizations driving educational initiatives
- curriculum development: specialists designing culturally relevant educational materials and programs
- educational leadership: directors or coordinators in Indigenous-serving schools, organizations or programs
- higher education: instructors, program coordinators or student support roles in colleges and universities
- policy advocacy: policy analysts or advisors focused on education and Indigenous affairs
- research and consulting: experts conducting research or offering consultation on Indigenous education and policy
This program equips graduates with the skills to create meaningful change, enhance educational systems, and empower Indigenous communities.
Attend Online
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.
Program Contact Information
If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.
- ais@asu.edu
- 480/965-3634