AIS Degree

American Indian Studies (AIS) at CSU San Marcos

We are committed to Indigenous academic excellence and community based participatory research and engages students in scholarly academic activities that promote and strengthen tribal and cultural sovereignty.

By providing a quality interdisciplinary major and minor emphasizing American Indian cultures locally, regionally, and globally, our students have multiple opportunities to develop a critical consciousness about their lives, as well as the lives of others in our community.

AIS Major

Why Choose an American Indian Studies Major at CSUSM?

Engage in rigorous interdisciplinary study and community-based participatory research that promotes tribal and cultural sovereignty. Develop expertise that makes a real impact.

Specialize in Four Key Areas

American Indian Studies

Broad interdisciplinary foundation

Health and Wellness

Addressing community health disparities

Law & Government

Tribal sovereignty and governance

Traditional Ecological Knowledge & Climate Justice

Environmental stewardship

Launch a Meaningful Career

Prepare for careers in tribal government, business & entrepreneurship, education, law, policy, cultural resource management, museum studies, public health, social services, and tribal enterprise management. AIS majors are sought after by tribal nations, government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses.

Think Globally, Act Locally

Study American Indian cultures from local to global perspectives. Work directly with Southern California's tribal nations while understanding Indigenous issues worldwide.

Develop Critical Leadership Skills

Build critical consciousness about power, sovereignty, justice, and representation. Gain the analytical and cultural skills to become an effective advocate, educator, or leader.

Engage in Real-World Research

Participate in community-based projects that benefit tribal nations and strengthen cultural sovereignty. Learn through meaningful collaboration, not just classroom theory.

Join a Committed Community

Be part of a program dedicated to Indigenous academic excellence and supporting students who want to make a difference in tribal communities and beyond.

American Indian Studies Minor

Why Choose an American Indian Studies Minor at CSUSM?

Stand Out to Employers

Employers in education, healthcare, social work, law, government, environmental science, and nonprofits actively seek graduates who understand tribal sovereignty, cultural protocols, and can work effectively with tribal nations and businesses.

Complement Any Major

AIS enriches majors in history, sociology, literature, environmental studies, political science, psychology, and especially business—providing crucial perspectives for working with tribal enterprises and sovereign nations.

Current American Indian Studies Courses

AIS Major Worksheet

AIS Minor Worksheet