Native American Studies

Overview

At the Native American Studies  program at the University of South Dakota , you will learn about the histories, languages, cultures, arts, sovereignty and contemporary status of American Indian nations and peoples. Through educational opportunities in the classroom and community and research opportunities beyond the classroom, you'll develop effective communication and research skills – skills that will serve you well in establishing mutually beneficial and enduring cross-cultural relationships throughout your life and career.

The Native American Studies program at USD uniquely prepares students interested in working with tribal nations and communities and complements other disciplines such as anthropology, art history, English, health sciences, history, and Lakota language and psychology. You will gain a valuable foundation for a variety of careers, including those in the public sector; non-profit organizations; tribal government, corporate and private companies; journalism; education; health and social services and more. You'll also be set up for success in countless graduate and professional programs, including law, education, and public policy.

Opportunities 

The Native American Studies program provides an intellectual environment where teaching and research are based on the priorities and knowledge of South Dakota's Native communities. Your experience is grounded within the fabric of South Dakota, the whole of North America and the global Indigenous experience.

Our faculty and students interact with and conduct research for Native governments, Native-based community organizations and other organizations that serve Native Country. These experiences will help you become a communicator and leader who is prepared to bring people together and understand others' needs in our multicultural world.

Additionally, the program emphasizes the continued effort of the university to establish respectful partnerships with Native nations at the local, regional, national and international levels.