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 program prepares students to pursue graduate studies and careers located in tribal communities or in ethnically diverse settings.
- K-12 Teacher
- Lawyer
- Social Worker
- Community Outreach Manager
- Museum Currator
- Public Policy Advisor
- Historian
- Archaeologist
Potential Salary
Median Salary $64,910
American Indigenous Studies Degrees at MSU
American Indigenous Studies, Bachelor of Science
Discover the histories, cultures, languages, and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples across the United States and Canada—while also exploring global Indigenous experiences. This multidisciplinary program highlights the diversity of Indigenous cultures and global Indigenous experiences. Students apply classroom learning through internships and community partnerships, gaining hands-on experience in real-world settings.
American Indigenous Studies, Minor
The American Indigenous Studies minor deepens your understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, arts, economies, politics, and law—with a special focus on Dakota and Anishinaabeg peoples. This minor complements a wide range of majors and is especially valuable for students pursuing careers in education, social work, legal studies, urban planning, museum studies, and related fields.
American Indigenous Studies, Certificate
This flexible certificate offers foundational knowledge of Indigenous communities, with a focus on Dakota and Anishinaabeg peoples. Designed to complement any major or professional path, it can be pursued independently or alongside other degrees. Students build cultural competency and explore contemporary Indigenous issues—preparing for careers in public service, education, nonprofit work, and community outreach.
American Indigenous Studies, Bachelor of Science
Discover the histories, cultures, languages, and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples across the United States and Canada—while also exploring global Indigenous experiences. This multidisciplinary program highlights the diversity of Indigenous cultures and global Indigenous experiences. Students apply classroom learning through internships and community partnerships, gaining hands-on experience in real-world settings.
American Indigenous Studies, Minor
The American Indigenous Studies minor deepens your understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, arts, economies, politics, and law—with a special focus on Dakota and Anishinaabeg peoples. This minor complements a wide range of majors and is especially valuable for students pursuing careers in education, social work, legal studies, urban planning, museum studies, and related fields.
American Indigenous Studies, Certificate
This flexible certificate offers foundational knowledge of Indigenous communities, with a focus on Dakota and Anishinaabeg peoples. Designed to complement any major or professional path, it can be pursued independently or alongside other degrees. Students build cultural competency and explore contemporary Indigenous issues—preparing for careers in public service, education, nonprofit work, and community outreach.
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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.
Related Programs
K-12 Teaching Programs
In collaboration with the Department of K-12 & Secondary Programs (KSP), Minnesota State University, Mankato's teaching content areas support licensure candidates in building the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to meet the needs of today's diverse K-12 learners and partner school districts.
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.
Social Work
The Department of Social Work at Minnesota State University, Mankato, offers a nurturing and challenging environment for students committed to social justice and improving lives through a professional social work career. Our accredited BSSW and MSW programs provide students with comprehensive training that includes hands-on experiences in real-world settings, preparing graduates to improve lives and foster change in their communities.
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 with an interest in global awareness, cultural diversity, human adaptation and an understanding of human behavior.
Contact 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