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American Indigenous Studies

American Indigenous Studies is an interdisciplinary program that provides a broad understanding of Native Americans, especially the Dakota, and their respective ways of life in the past, present, and future. Career track electives allow students to focus on education, environment, legal studies, or health/human services pathways.

Careers in American Indigenous Studies

The American Indigenous Studies prepares students to pursue graduate studies and careers located in tribal communities or in ethnically diverse settings.
  • Community Outreach Manager
  • Anthropologist
  • Archaeologist
  • Archivist
  • Historian
  • Sociologist

Potential Salary

Median Salary $63,800

The median annual wage for Anthropologists and Archeologists in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

American Indigenous Studies Degrees at MSU

American Indigenous Studies, Bachelor of Arts

The American Indigenous Studies Bachelor of Arts embraces the vibrant cultures, languages, histories, and politics of Native people. It provides students with ample opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings through internships, field research, and service-learning projects. The BA includes the Ojibwe language requirement.

American Indigenous Studies, Bachelor of Science

The American Indigenous Studies Bachelor of Science embraces the vibrant cultures, languages, histories, and politics of Native people. It provides students with ample opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings through internships, field research, and service-learning projects.

American Indigenous Studies, Minor

The American Indigenous Studies program embraces the vibrant cultures, languages, histories, and politics of Native people.

American Indigenous Studies, Certificate

Students obtain an understanding of the Indigenous American experience in the United States. Students begin to comprehend the vast history of native cultures and the scope of contemporary issues facing Indigenous Americans today. The certificate is designed to enhance any major.

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American Indian Affairs

American Indian Affairs provides American Indian students of all tribal backgrounds at Minnesota State University with support services during their college careers.

 

Native American Student Association

The Native American Student Association (NASA) is a multi-tribal student organization that serves students who identify as American Indian. The student organization is an open group with members who are both Native and non-Native. NASA is advised through the American Indian Affairs Program and adheres to the program's mission statement.

Owaci Okdakiciye (MSU Powwow Committee)

The purpose of the Minnesota State University, Mankato Owaci Okodakiciye is to build a planning committee of MNSU students to create an annual wacipi on campus. With thorough planning, team members, and structure, we will create an event to host our wacipi to bring the Native American community of Mankato, MN and surrounding areas together for traditional song, dance, games, and fun in honoring Dakota people here in their homeland.

Related Programs

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Anthropology

Anthropology explores the interaction of human biology and culture, offering insights through its four subdivisions: archaeology, biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and cultural anthropology. The major provides training in all areas of anthropology for the liberal arts major with an interest in global awareness, cultural diversity, human adaptation, and an understanding of human behavior.

a person writing on a paper

History

The History program fosters diverse communities and multicultural connections while equipping students with critical analysis, information literacy, and writing skills for careers in various fields such as education, law, museums, public service, and more.

group of 3 women looking at laptop and tablet with another group of 3 students behind them

Ethnic Studies

Ethnic Studies is an interdisciplinary program, academically committed to promoting multicultural and ethnic knowledge, skills and values both within and outside the United States and to preparing our students for effective participation in culturally diverse global communities.

Professor working with a group of students during class

Environmental Humanities Minor

Environmental Humanities engages in cross-disciplinary conversations about the environment by combining classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The minor encourages students to explore ethical, social, cultural, and artistic responses to environmental issues.

Department of American Indigenous Studies

College of

Humanities and Social Sciences

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.

Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences