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Native American Studies

College of Letters and Science

  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Master of Arts

How can Indigenous knowledge systems help us solve problems and recreate our world through creative expression? Native American studies offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to studying the sovereignty and autonomy of Indigenous peoples throughout the Americas and beyond. Bridging the humanities and social sciences, the major incorporates courses and training in art, literature, religion, linguistics, history, law, anthropology, environmental policy, political economy, ethnomusicology, performance and dance studies, and women and gender studies.

Major Requirements

Students in Native American studies may choose from three plans within the major. The first plan concentrates chiefly on the Native American experience north of Mexico, the second plan on Meso-America and the third plan on South America. Each plan also includes course work covering other indigenous cultures of the Americas, including the literature, culture and arts of the native cultures. You will work with faculty with research interests in history, religion and philosophy, social sciences, languages and literatures, Indian law and the performing arts.

Contact Information

Degree Outcomes

Careers

  • Community Organizer
  • Lawyer
  • Physician
  • Lobbyist
  • Public Affairs Representative
  • Social Worker
  • Curator
  • Historian
  • Librarian
  • Consultant

Graduate Study

  • Ethnic studies
  • History
  • Environmental studies
  • Medicine
  • Law
  • Women’s Studies

Alumni Employers

  • State of California
  • City of Sacramento
  • Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation
  • The Yurok Tribal Environmental Program
  • Berkey Williams LLP
  • The Marine Mammal Center
  • Borderlands Restoration Network (AZ)
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Internship opportunities

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Your course roadmap

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The faculty you will work with

Our undergraduates work directly with our faculty through research projects and labs.

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Global learning programs

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Undergraduate research

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What can I do with my NAS major?

Learn how to connect your Native American studies major to career opportunities.

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