Teaching in Indigenous Communities, Undergraduate Certificate
Department of Teaching and Learning
College of Education
This certificate will prepare students to be teachers in U.S.-based Indigenous communities and schools serving American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students. Courses complement traditional course requirements in teacher-preparation degrees by focusing on the unique histories, cultures, contexts, and relationships of Native Nations in the United States.
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To receive an undergraduate certificate (at least 15 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.
Please be aware that federal financial aid is not available for some certificates, if the certificate is pursued and completed as a stand-alone certificate (i.e., not completed concurrently with a degree program). See the "Details" tab for additional information.
In addition to University Requirements:
- Complete individual plan requirements.
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 18 |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Required |
| Student Teaching/Supervised Teaching | Required |
Purpose Statement
This certificate will be for educators who are planning on teaching in Indigenous schools. The three required education courses are part of the certification program for all teacher candidates in the Elementary program. The required AIS course and electives will provide background knowledge on various concepts related to Indigenous knowledge, history, epistemologies, and schooling. There will be three corequisite courses, each for one unit, that are tied to the education courses and will provide learning experiences that bridge theory to practice. This will include field trips, speakers, projects, and various activities depending on the course content.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Understand the history of American Indian education in the U.S.
- Know and be able to apply core concepts of Indigenous Education.
- Recognize the unique assets of Indigenous schools and consider how to center those assets in teaching and learning approaches.
Certificate Requirements
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Take the following 18 units:
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This certificate may only be pursued and completed concurrently with a degree program. This certificate is not available as a stand-alone certificate.
Additional Information
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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.