BA in Native American and Indigenous studies in Eugene United States | University of Oregon

Native American and Indigenous studies is a multidisciplinary area that draws on history, anthropology, legal studies, literature, gender/sexuality research, and other fields to explore modern Indigenous experiences. Through coursework and scholarship, learners investigate Native American identities, traditions, governance, historical narratives, and cultural expressions across time. The curriculum emphasizes the distinctive legal status of Indigenous groups and addresses challenges confronting U.S. Native populations, ranging from linguistic preservation to environmental concerns and economic growth.
This academic discipline fosters meaningful partnerships with Native communities, contributing significantly to tribal nation-building efforts. Many Americans possess only superficial knowledge about tribal governance structures and their relationship to broader political systems, with even fewer considering how restricted tribal sovereignty reflects on America's democratic principles. In regions with substantial Native populations - including areas with nine federally recognized tribes and Indigenous representation 50% above national averages - this knowledge proves indispensable for emerging professionals across all sectors.