Careers in Native American and Indigenous Studies

Students may ask, "What job opportunities am I capable of receiving with a major in Native American and Indigenous Studies?"

Our program is just three years old as we begin the Fall, 2009 term, but already we’ve had a number of graduates who have gone on to graduate school and to careers – some as an extension of our required internships. 

One graduate  is a coordinator of communications at a chapter house on the Navajo Reservation.  Another works in a tribal enterprise at the Southern Ute reservation (double-major in NAIS and Business).  Another has worked at the School  of the American Research in Santa Fe as a museum/exhibits specialist.  Several are now graduate students at major universities in fields related to their NAIS BA Degree. 

We expect many of our graduates to work for tribal offices, schools and enterprises.  Others will have the background and skills to work in a variety of jobs in or near indigenous communities meaning practically anywhere that quality information and understandings of Native peoples is needed and skills in personal communications, understanding of policy issues, economic conditions, media issues or ways to communicate about tribal cultures in interethnic environments is needed. 

We also have a minor in NAIS.  The minor works great with practically any major, providing both the credentials and the knowledge crucial to success in careers in or near Indian country. 

Bachelor’s degrees in many disciplines are often difficult to match directly to a job description, but are a fine basis for careers where certain kinds of knowledge and certain skills are needed.  Part of the work of faculty members is to help students identify their career track and work in advising to get the needed background from among the choices of courses in our major.

The Native American and Indigenous Studies degree can be a valuable asset for your career!