This minor explores governance, nation-building, and other implementation issues facing indigenous peoples both in the Americas and around the globe. The plan provides an umbrella under which to study tribal histories and cultures, governmental policies, sustainable economic development, and contemporary conditions on native lands and reservations.
If you're interested in gaining contemporary tribal management skills and respect for the knowledge, values, and, beliefs of indigenous cultures, a minor in Applied Indigenous Studies can be a useful addition to any major. You will prepare to tackle challenges facing today's Native communities by complementing contemporary scholarship with traditional tribal knowledge.
Gain critical skills in economic development, policy articulation, and environmental studies. Study tribal histories and cultures, federal Indian policies, and contemporary reservation conditions. You will be encouraged to pursue research, fieldwork, and teaching opportunities.
A minor is earned in conjunction with a bachelor's degree.
To receive a minor (18 - 24 units) at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject matter areas with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. At least 12 units of the minor must be unique to that minor and not applied to any other minor.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
No more than fifty percent of the units used to satisfy minor requirements may be used to satisfy major requirements.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 18 |
| Major GPA | C |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Optional |
Purpose Statement
A minor in Applied Indigenous Studies provides students with an overview of Indigenous peoples both in the Americas and around the globe. Students will be introduced to diverse indigenous cultures and be able to demonstrate the interdependence of social, political, religious, and economic aspects of the Indigenous experience. As an AIS minor, students have the ability to critically approach the study of Federal Indian Law from both a historical and contemporary perspective. Students will survey basic concepts and ideologies surrounding stereotypes, historical controversies, cultural difference, as well as political and practical issues surrounding research within Indigenous communities. Therefore, a minor in AIS will help prepare students to contribute to the sustainability of Indigenous communities into the 21st century. Our program is globally oriented, traditionally grounded, and 21st century focused. In line with Native American traditions, we are committed to training professionals prepared to assist Native nations today, tomorrow, and for the next seven generations to come.
Student Learning Outcomes
Take the following 18 units with a Grade of "C" or better:
Students enrolled in this minor may not enroll in or pursue the following due to the number of overlapping units:
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.