StudyQA — Bachelor: American Indian Studies — South Dakota State University

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The Bachelor of Arts in American Indian Studies at South Dakota State University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the history, culture, and contemporary issues affecting Native American communities. This interdisciplinary program is designed to explore the diverse perspectives, traditions, and experiences of Native peoples across North America, with a particular focus on the tribes and nations indigenous to the Great Plains region. Students enrolled in this program will engage with coursework that covers Native history, language, sovereignty, politics, arts, and social issues, providing them with a well-rounded perspective on Native American life and contributions.

The American Indian Studies program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural awareness, and scholarly research, preparing graduates for careers in education, government, tribal administration, non-profit organizations, and other fields that serve Indigenous populations. Students will have opportunities for experiential learning through fieldwork, community engagement, and internships with tribal entities and cultural organizations. The curriculum incorporates both traditional academic methods and Indigenous knowledge systems, fostering respect and understanding for Native cultures.

Faculty members involved in the program are committed to promoting Indigenous scholarship and supporting students’ personal and academic growth. The program also aims to foster leadership among Native students and allies, encouraging active participation in issues relevant to Indigenous communities. By completing this degree, students will gain a deeper appreciation of Native American heritage, sovereignty, and resilience, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to Native and broader societal development. The program prepares students to become informed advocates and culturally competent professionals dedicated to fostering reconciliation, resilience, and respect for Indigenous peoples and their traditions.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline June for Fall semester; November for Spring semester Tuition fee

USD 8036 Year (National)
USD 18044 Year (International)

Start date January,September 2015 Languages Take an IELTS test

English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time

Course Content

Required Courses

Introduction to American Indian Studies
Formation of Federal Indian Policy
Topics
American Indian Literature
Race and Ethnic Relations
Introductory Lakota I
Indians of North America
or History and Culture of the American Indian

Elective Courses:

Introduction to American Indian Studies
Literature of American West
History and Culture of the American Indian
American Indian Government and Politics
Indians of North America
American Indian Literature

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 5.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 500 TOEFL iBT® test : 61

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

Applicants should have an above average academic record at least equivalent to a "B-" average (2.60 out of 4.00), or be in the top 60% of their class with suitable academic preparation for the intended major.

The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test), while not required, is encouraged and strongly recommended for freshman applicants. Students who graduated from U.S. high schools must submit an SAT score.

Academic Transcripts need to be originals or official certified true copies. If your transcripts are not in English, certified true translations must be attached. All upper secondary school-level work need to be demonstrated through your transcripts. It is common for applicants to submit transcripts prior to completion of their final year of secondary school. If you must submit transcripts prior to completion, please indicate your expected graduation date.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

Academic Excellence Scholarship
"The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."
Alumni Study Travel Fund
Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.
Amsterdam Merit Scholarships
The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than South Dakota State University.

Funding

SDSU offers a variety of academic scholarships. Awards are based on academic achievement, activities participation and leadership.

Accreditation

South Dakota State University has been granted the full, ten-year reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission. An accreditation team of representatives from peer institutions commended SDSU for: