CENTER FOR NATIVE AMERICAN AND INDIGENOUS RESEARCH

NAIS First Year Focus

Why Study Native American and Indigenous Studies?

The undergraduate minor in Native American and Indigenous Studies (NAIS) at Northwestern University offers a transformative academic experience for students passionate about exploring the rich histories, vibrant cultures, and contemporary issues of Indigenous communities. Our dynamic and interdisciplinary curriculum is firmly rooted in Indigenous methodologies, ethics, and theoretical perspectives, building upon the contributions of key NAIS scholars.

Key Features of the NAIS Program:

• Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Engage with courses from history, anthropology, literature, global health, learning sciences, environmental studies, and more to gain a comprehensive, multifaceted perspective on Indigenous identities, political dynamics, cultural innovations, and global interconnectedness. 
• Indigenous Methodologies: Learn to apply Indigenous methodologies, ethics, and theoretical perspectives in academic research and practical applications.
• Focus on Sovereignty and Resistance: Examine critical topics such as sovereignty, self-determination, and resistance, understanding their significance in historical and contemporary contexts.
• Global Perspective: Explore the interconnectedness of Indigenous communities worldwide, recognizing their contributions to global cultural and political landscapes.
  

By studying NAIS, you will develop critical thinking skills, gain a nuanced understanding of historical and contemporary Indigenous issues, foster cross-cultural competence and global awareness, and become an active participant in addressing social justice issues. The program challenges students to critically analyze colonialism, racism, and the ongoing struggles for Indigenous sovereignty. 

Career Paths and Opportunities

The NAIS minor equips you with robust investigative, analytical, and critical skills that prepare you for diverse and impactful career paths, including:

• Law and Advocacy: Specialize in Indigenous rights, tribal law, and legal advocacy for Native communities.
• Education: Teach and develop curricula rooted in Indigenous Studies at K-12 schools. 
• Social Work: Work with Indigenous communities to address social issues and promote well-being.
• Healthcare: Focus on reducing health disparities and improving healthcare access for Native populations.
•  Public Policy: Influence and develop policies that impact Indigenous peoples at local, national, and international levels.
• Environmental Management: Address land and resource management issues in collaboration with tribal nations.
• Museum Curation: Preserve and present Indigenous cultural heritage through exhibitions and educational programs. 
• Journalism: Report on Indigenous issues, bringing attention to underrepresented stories and voices.
• Non-profit Organizations: Advocate for Indigenous rights, environmental justice, and cultural preservation.
  

The minor also provides excellent preparation for graduate studies in fields such as anthropology, history, law, public health, and more.  Some of our minor graduates have gone on to finish their law and medical degrees. Many of our past NAIS minor students have pursued careers in academia and gone on to Master and PhD programs.

Introductory Classes for First-Year Students

To build a strong foundation in NAIS, first-year students are encouraged to enroll in the following courses:

Fall 2024

• History 102-7-24:  Native Americans in Film and TV - College Seminar - American History - Douglas Metoxen Kiel - Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM, Harris Hall L05
• History 200-0-22: Red Power: Indigenous Resistance in the US and Can - New Introductory Courses in History - Douglas Metoxen Kiel - Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM, Lutkin Hall
• Sociology 277-0-20: Native Society: Past and Present - Beth Redbird - Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 4:50PM, Fisk Hall 217 

These courses not only fulfill requirements, but also provide students with critical insights into Indigenous perspectives.

How to Declare the NAIS Minor

You can declare the NAIS minor as early as your first year, allowing you to integrate NAIS courses into your academic plan from the beginning. To declare:

1. Review the minor requirements on the course catalog. 
2. Schedule a meeting with the NAIS Minor Director, Professor Doug Kiel
3. Complete the minor declaration form, available for download  here:  https://weinberg.northwestern.edu/undergraduate/major-minor/minor-and-certificate-options/rules-policies.html
4. Return the minor declaration form to Professor Kiel and copy Michaela Marchi at michaela.marchi@northwestern.edu

Connect with Us

For more information about the NAIS program, please contact:

Professor Doug Kiel

NAIS Undergraduate Minor Coordinator 
Email: doug.kiel@northwestern.edu
Office: Harris Hall 229
Phone: 847-467-4821

We encourage prospective students to schedule a meeting to discuss your interests and academic goals. Join our welcoming community and explore the transformative field of Native American and Indigenous Studies at Northwestern University.