Overview

The American Indian Studies programme at San Diego State University offers students a profound understanding of Native American heritage and contemporary life. This Bachelor of Arts degree focuses on the unique histories and cultures of indigenous peoples, with a specific emphasis on the tribes of the Southern California region.

Through an interdisciplinary lens, the curriculum examines the political, social, and cultural frameworks that shape Native communities today. Students engage with topics such as tribal sovereignty, decolonization, and jurisdictional complexities to prepare for meaningful engagement with indigenous nations.

Why American Indian Studies at San Diego State University?

The department provides a specialised focus on the Kumeyaay and other Southern California tribes, offering a localised perspective that is rare in higher education. Students benefit from a curriculum that prioritises tribal self-determination and provides practical community service experience within Native organisations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14130 per year
National fee: USD 14130 per year
Local fee: USD 6838 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in indigenous history before moving into specialised upper-division topics. Modules may include:

American Indian Heritage
U.S. History from an American Indian Perspective
Indian Peoples of California
Federal Indian Law
American Indian Community Service Experience
American Indian Oral Tradition
American Indians in Contemporary Society
Tribal Gaming
American Indian Languages

Careers with American Indian Studies

Graduates are equipped to pursue diverse professional paths both within and outside Indian Country. The programme prepares individuals for roles in tribal education, social services, and cultural preservation divisions. Many alumni find opportunities within federal agencies such as the Indian Health Service or the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

The degree also supports careers in the private sector, particularly in industries that interface with Native communities. Potential fields include environmental planning, hospitality, financial services, and architectural consulting. The focus on sovereignty and economic development also provides a strong foundation for entrepreneurship and tribal administration.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Anthropology

American Indian Studies

Ethnic & Women’s Studies
Religious Studies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

American and Australasian studies View 538 other Bachelors in American and Australasian studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)

A nonrefundable fee of $70

Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Out-of-State

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6838 USD / year

≈ 6838 USD / year

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for American Indian Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

San Diego

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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