American Indian Studies Major

The American Indian Studies Major at the University of Washington offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of Native American histories, cultures, politics, and contemporary issues. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the diverse experiences of Indigenous peoples in North America, emphasizing the importance of indigenous perspectives and methods of inquiry. Through coursework spanning anthropology, history, political science, sociology, and cultural studies, students will gain critical insight into topics such as sovereignty, contemporary social movements, language revitalization, arts, and the impact of colonization. The major encourages students to engage actively with Native communities and scholars, fostering a respectful and collaborative learning environment. Students have opportunities to participate in fieldwork, community projects, and internships that connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, cultural awareness, and advocacy skills, preparing graduates for careers in public policy, education, social services, cultural resource management, or further academic research. With access to the university's extensive resources, including special collections, archives, and Indigenous studies faculty, students are supported in developing a nuanced understanding of Indigenous issues both historically and in the contemporary era. The program also emphasizes the importance of Indigenous languages and traditions, encouraging students to appreciate and learn from Indigenous methods of knowledge transmission. Graduates of the American Indian Studies Major will be equipped with the analytical tools and cultural competencies necessary to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing efforts for social justice, self-determination, and cultural preservation of Native American communities. This major is ideal for those passionate about indigenous rights, diverse cultural expressions, and social justice, and aims to prepare students to become informed and engaged citizens dedicated to positive change.

Completion of two courses from:

• AIS 102 (5 credits) - Introduction to American Indian Studies
• AIS 201 (5 credits) - Introduction to American Indian Histories
• AIS 202 (5 credits) - Introduction to Contemporary Experience in Indian America
• AIS 203 (5 credits) - Introduction to Philosophical and Aesthetic Universes

1. Minimum of 2.0 University GPA
2. Completion of 10 credits of American Indian Studies classes

Students may declare the major at any time in the quarter. Transfer students must be enrolled at the UW before applying.

Major Requirements:

55 credits as follows:

1. Introductory courses (10 credits): Two courses from AIS 102, AIS 201, AIS 202, and AIS 203. Other courses may be allowed, subject to adviser approval.
2. AIS Electives (40 credits): Chosen from AIS courses or a select list of courses from other departments, subject to adviser approval.
3. A minimum of 25 credits of course work at the 300-level or above must be completed at the UW.

All financial aid inquiries should be directed to the Office of Student Financial Aid. Their website is a valuable resource for students interested in scholarships, loans, work study, and grants.

The Office of Merit Scholarships, Fellowships & Awards, maintained by the Center or Experiential Learning and Diversity at UW, maintains a scholarship database, offers online application advice, runs frequent workshops, and invites students to make appointments with advisers to aid in the scholarship search.

Students may declare the American Indian Studies major after completing a 10 credits of AIS classes with a minimum of 2.0 University GPA.