Indigenous Nations

American Indian Studies & Dakota Studies (AIS&DS) promotes awareness of native cultures and peoples in the U.S. Courses are designed to examine the ways in which traditional native cultures have persisted and adapted over time and how these cultures are expressed in present-day life and affairs. Students learn about native cultures in general and focus on the Dakota people of Minnesota specifically. The interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinary nature of AIS&DS is illustrated by analytical concepts, methodologies, and contributions from key fields and disciplines such as anthropology, history, literature, and art. In a society and world characterized by diversity and multiculturalism, AIS&DS serves both native and non-native students by broadening their knowledge of traditional and modern native history and culture.