American Indian Studies

Fort Lewis College offers a new BA degree in American Indian Studies (AIS) that will prepare you for many new jobs in and near Indian country. This degree is flexible and useful for you to begin many different types of careers or for graduate studies.

The degree has emerged from courses in a number of departments, making this interdisciplinary program one that has already stood the test of time. The major embraces concepts from American Indian Studies, Native American Studies and Indigenous Peoples Studies.

The history of Indian affairs and the present Indian Self Determination policy have opened a new pathway for understanding the cultural, social, political and economic aspirations and potential of indigenous people in the United States and the world.

An AIS Advisory Board, which includes tribal representatives, students, alumni, student services staff and faculty members, helps guide the program's courses and offerings.

Fort Lewis College's rich history also makes an AIS degree here appealing. Originally a U.S. military fort, Fort Lewis became an Indian boarding school, then a state-run high school, junior college and finally a four-year college. Throughout history, American Indian students have received a full tuition waiver. A sacred trust, the tuition waiver is now a valuable asset for qualified American Indian students who wish to be a part of the new, cutting-edge program here.

Every year, over 700 Native American students study at Fort Lewis College. Other students will also find a rich program, one that is designed to offer valuable insights to people of many backgrounds. Since many tribal homelands are nearby, the opportunity to learn about Native peoples is fantastic.

View our new American Indian Studies web site.

To learn more, contact our American Indian Studies professors.