Overview

The Native American Studies B.A. at the University of South Dakota provides students with a profound understanding of the histories, cultures, and contemporary status of American Indian nations. This multi-disciplinary programme encourages learners to develop essential research and communication skills necessary for fostering cross-cultural relationships. Students gain a unique perspective on tribal sovereignty and the arts within a global Indigenous context.

Why Native American Studies at University of South Dakota?

Students benefit from a unique intellectual environment where teaching is informed by the priorities of South Dakota's Native communities. The university provides access to exceptional resources, including the South Dakota Oral History Center and the Institute of American Indian Studies. Small class sizes ensure personalised guidance from expert faculty members who specialise in Indigenous research.

The programme offers distinctive opportunities to engage with the Native American Studies Speaker Series and various student organisations like Tiospaye. These platforms create a supportive "home away from home" while promoting academic excellence. Additionally, the curriculum is designed to function effectively as a double major, allowing students to complement their studies with disciplines such as history, health sciences, or psychology.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13299 per year
National fee: USD 13299 per year
Local fee: USD 9687 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics focusing on the lived experiences and legal frameworks of Indigenous peoples. Modules may include:

Lakota Culture and Traditions
Federal Indian Policy
Lakota Language
Native American History
Indigenous Arts
Tribal Governance
Contemporary American Indian Issues

Careers with Native American Studies

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional paths in both the public and private sectors. Many find success in tribal government, non-profit organisations, and education. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those pursuing careers in journalism, social services, or health administration.

The analytical and cultural competencies gained through this degree are highly valued in corporate environments and legal settings. Many alumni continue their education in competitive graduate programmes focusing on law, public policy, or the humanities. The degree ensures students are ready to serve as responsive leaders in a multicultural world.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Lakota

Native American Studies

Theory and Methodology

Federal Indian Policy

Contemporary Issues in Native American Studies

Intermediate Lakota

Lakota Culture and Traditions

Lakota Governance

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Vermillion, 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

2.6

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

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

Official high school (secondary school) transcript with grade point average equivalent to 2.6 on a 4.0 scale.

Demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following.
Application Fee of $2

Passport

Official Statement of Finances

Official transcripts

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

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Out-of-State

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9687 USD / year

≈ 9687 USD / year

Living costs

Vermillion

United States

1024 - 1781 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 Native American 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

Vermillion

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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