American Indian Studies, BS
At a Glance: program details
- Location:
- Additional Program Fee: Yes
- Second Language Requirement: No
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Math Intensity:
General
- Initial Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
Required Courses (Major Map)
Program Description
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.
Admission Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
Freshman
Transfer
International
Readmission
Transfer Options
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search 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 help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.
Change of Major Requirements
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.
Flexible Degree Options
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:
American Indian Studies (Tribal Leadership and Governance)
Website | Locations: TEMPE
American Indian Studies (Indigenous Rights and Social Justice)
Website | Locations: TEMPE
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.
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Career Outlook
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 Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
Social and Human Service Assistants
- Growth: 8.6%
- Median Salary*: 38520
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
- Growth: 3.9%
- Median Salary*: 80910
General and Operations Managers
- Growth: 4.2%
- Median Salary*: 98100
Curators
- Growth: 11.1%
- Median Salary*: 60380
Legislators
- Growth: 3.4%
- Median Salary*: 48090
Recreation Workers
- Growth: 4.6%
- Median Salary*: 31680
Security Managers
- Growth: 4.6%
- Median Salary*: 99030
Social and Community Service Managers
- Growth: 9.1%
- Median Salary*: 74240
Travel Guides
- Growth: 8.1%
- Median Salary*: 34440
Tutors
- Growth: 3.3%
- Median Salary*: 36680
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
Global Opportunities
Global Experience
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.
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