American Indian Studies BA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The American Indian Studies BA at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) offers you a vital pathway to understanding the complex histories, cultures, and political landscapes of Indigenous peoples in the Americas. This undergraduate degree is designed for students passionate about tribal sovereignty, cultural identity, and the distinct legal and political status of American Indian communities. You will explore critical issues through an academic lens, engaging with the epistemologies and contemporary challenges faced by Tribal nations, preparing you for meaningful work within this politically distinct and culturally rich segment of the population.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelors Degree is studied over four years, integrating foundational knowledge with practical application. You will delve into subjects such as federal Indian law and policy, American Indian culture and language preservation, and contemporary health and wellness issues. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, including an internship in an American Indian community, allowing you to apply your knowledge directly. You will graduate with the critical understanding and practical skills necessary for careers in healthcare, education, public service, and government, working alongside and advocating for Indigenous communities.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in American Indian Studies provides a comprehensive exploration of Indigenous peoples in North America. The curriculum covers foundational topics such as federal Indian law, religion, art, and environmental issues, alongside major requirements focusing on communities, media representation, health, and political development. Students will engage in research methods and have opportunities for internships and specialized projects, with electives allowing for deeper dives into areas like activism, traditional knowledge, and literature.

1 Lower-Division (15 units)

Introduction to American Indian Studies
Introduction to Federal Indian Law and Policy
American Indian Religion
American Indian Art and Contemporary Issues
American Indians and Environmental Issues
American Indian Culture and Language Preservation and Revitalization
American Indian Education: Equity and Social Justice

2 Major Requirements (31)

American Indian Communities
Imagining Indians: American Indians, Mass Media, Film and Society
Contemporary American Indian Health and Wellness
American Indian Political and Economic Development
American Indian Studies: Research, Methods, and Applications
Internship in an American Indian Community

3 Internship/Special Project (3 units)

American Indian Women and Activism
American Indian Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Practice

4 Upper-Division Electives (9)

American Indian Women and Activism
Independent Study in American Indian Themes
American Indian Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Practice
Native American Literatures
Advanced Digital Photography Fieldwork

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 68,424.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on San Marcos Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

78%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAgricultural Technology & Precision FarmingAviation & Air TransportCorporate & Commercial LawDefense & Military AviationFleet Management & OperationsGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesIntellectual Property LawLivestock & Animal HusbandrySupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

California State University San Marcos

City of Encinitas

County of San Diego

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Marcos Unified School District

United State Army

Vista Unified School District

Why Study American Indian Studies BA at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Fast Application response time

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) typically responds to applications within a week, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about American Indian Studies BA at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during breaks, particularly on-campus. Off-campus work may be permitted after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English language proficiency can be demonstrated through tests like Duolingo, with a required overall score of 95. Alternative tests such as TOEFL and IELTS have specific minimum scores for each section.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as healthcare workers, educators, nonprofit managers, government officials, or business professionals.

What will I actually study in this course?

This Major focuses on American Indian epistemologies and the concept of tribal sovereignty. Students will also explore the culture and identity of Tribal nations, gaining practical experience working with American Indians.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The American Indian Studies BA program has intake months in January and September. Make sure to prepare your application before these dates to secure your spot.
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