BA in Liberal Arts and Sciences -American Indian Studies in San Diego United States | San Diego State University

Located on Kumeyaay territory, SDSU's American Indian Studies program stands among the nation's pioneering departments in this field. Established through Native American activism, the Department of American Indian Studies continues this tradition by prioritizing community involvement and decolonial approaches. Rather than just studying Native peoples and topics theoretically, majors engage in hands-on learning through partnerships with tribal communities, individuals, and initiatives. With its unique position near numerous Native communities in San Diego County - home to more tribal governments and reservations than any other U.S. county - the department offers students exceptional access to living tribal knowledge systems, equipping them for meaningful professional paths.

The curriculum cultivates critical awareness of Indigenous experiences in America. Rooted in principles of tribal sovereignty and land-based knowledge, courses explore diverse subjects including legal systems, historical narratives, media representations, ecological justice, gender studies, linguistic preservation, creative expression, and literary traditions. As an academic leader, the department empowers both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students to build careers that positively impact Native communities.