American Indian & Native Studies Program

The American Indian and Native Studies Program (AINSP) is an interdisciplinary program that focuses on the histories, cultures, languages, arts, crafts, beliefs, political and social organizations, economies, geographies, literatures, and contemporary legal and political issues of Native Americans of the United States and other indigenous peoples of the western hemisphere.

By taking courses in AINSP, students understand historical and contemporary social issues among indigenous peoples of the Americas; they acquire expertise for jobs involving cross-cultural work through experience with ethnic, social, and political diversity; and they gain a background for more specialized or advanced work in a variety of social science areas, including anthropology, psychology, geography, economics, education, history, and political science. A certificate in AINSP provides preparation for professional training in museum work, health care, business, and law.

The American Indian and Native Studies Program offers three degree options: an undergraduate minor, an undergraduate certificate, and a graduate certificate. Currently, we have more than 40 undergraduate and graduate students pursuing one of these options. All students plan their programs in close cooperation with AINSP faculty advisers.

For advising, contact Michelene Pesantubbee
312 Gilmore Hall
319-335-2116 or

418 Jefferson Building
319-335-0006

Fax: 319-335-0314