American Indian Studies (BA)
Main Campus, Tucson, United States
Bachelor of Arts in American Indian Studies
University of Arizona
American Indian Studies
Program Overview: BA in American Indian Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in American Indian Studies at the University of Arizona is committed to developing native-centered scholarship about the indigenous peoples of North America. Students gain a holistic and analytical understanding of the critical issues Native North America has faced historically and in the present as communities strive to remain culturally autonomous peoples.
Emphasis is given to Native peoples' political and legal relationships to external governments and the general American and Canadian populations as well as to other native groups. The program explores history, cultural traditions including oral histories, literature, and arts, as well as tribal governments and Indigenous languages.
Located in Tucson, Arizona — home to 22 federally recognized tribes — the University of Arizona maintains strong ties with sovereign Native Nations and Indigenous communities. As a land grant university, it has developed special expertise in issues involving land, economics, public policy, and Nation building through the Udall Center.
Key Program Highlights
- Interdisciplinary curriculum covering history, law, politics, languages, and cultural traditions of Indigenous peoples
- Community-service-based internships with tribal colleges, schools, social organizations, and health agencies
- Located in Arizona, home to 22 federally recognized tribes, providing unparalleled access to Indigenous communities
- Strong emphasis on Native self-determination, sovereignty, and contemporary issues facing Native North America
Curriculum and Modules
The American Indian Studies major requires a minimum of 39 units, including four core courses, 15 units of AIS electives, and 12 units of additional AIS elective courses. At least 18 units must be upper-division (300-400 level) courses, and the plan of study focuses on fundamental AIS topics based on the department's interdisciplinary strengths.
AIS 220: Introduction to American Indian Studies
3 CreditsA foundational course introducing students to the contemporary and historic ways of life, knowledge, and experiences of American Indian, Alaska Native, and First Nation communities across North America.
AIS 248: Federal Indian Law and Policy
3 CreditsExamines the legal and political relationships between Native peoples and the federal government, including the history of treaties, legislation, and court decisions shaping Indigenous sovereignty.
AIS 323: American Indian Societies and Cultures
3 CreditsAn in-depth exploration of the diverse societies and cultural systems of American Indian peoples, including social organization, spiritual practices, and cultural resilience in the face of colonialism.
AIS 496T: Senior Capstone Seminar
3 CreditsA culminating seminar requiring students to synthesize their learning through advanced research, writing, and critical analysis of contemporary issues in American Indian Studies.
AIS Governance and Self-Determination
3 CreditsFocuses on the study of comparative political systems, the effects of imperialism and colonialism, and core issues of native self-determination and self-governance from political and legal perspectives.
AIS Community Internship
3 CreditsA community-service-based internship where students assist organizations such as tribal colleges, schools, social organizations, and health agencies serving Indigenous communities.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
The University of Arizona follows a holistic review process for undergraduate admissions. International students should ensure they meet the academic and language proficiency requirements outlined below. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- High School DiplomaCompletion of secondary education equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma
- Minimum GPA3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent
- Core CompetenciesCompletion of Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) core competency subjects including English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Language
- Standardized TestsSAT or ACT scores are optional but may strengthen your application
- Holistic ReviewExtracurricular activities, leadership experience, and personal statement are considered
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 79
- IELTSMinimum overall band score of 6.5
- PTE AcademicAccepted; contact Uni4Edu for minimum score details
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Arizona offers a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. Additional funding opportunities may be available specifically for students in the humanities and social sciences. Contact Uni4Edu for help identifying and applying for scholarships suited to your profile.
University of Arizona International Tuition Award
A merit-based award available to incoming international undergraduate students demonstrating strong academic achievement. Award amounts vary based on GPA and test scores.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the BA in American Indian Studies are prepared for a wide range of career paths in both public and private sectors. The program's interdisciplinary approach equips students with critical thinking, research, and cross-cultural communication skills valued across many professional fields.
Potential Career Paths
Potential Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Arizona is a leading public research institution consistently recognized in major global and national rankings. Its strong research output, diverse academic programs, and commitment to Indigenous scholarship contribute to its reputation as a top-tier university.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | U.S. News & World Report | #58 |
| Social Sciences | QS World Rankings | Top 200 |
| Space Science | U.S. News & World Report | #10 |
| Earth Sciences | QS World Rankings | Top 100 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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