M.S. in Communication Science & Disorders
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Communication Science & Disorders at the University...
B.A. in American Indian Studies
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
INTAKE: Feb & Sept
Program Overview
The B.A. in American Indian Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire provides students with an in-depth understanding of the history, culture, politics, and social issues affecting Native American communities. The program integrates interdisciplinary approaches, combining courses in history, anthropology, literature, and indigenous studies, and is designed to prepare students for careers in education, government, community service, and advocacy. Students gain critical skills to engage with indigenous issues from multiple perspectives, both historically and in the contemporary world.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.A. in American Indian Studies is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of Native American cultures and their ongoing challenges. Core courses cover topics like Native American history, tribal governance, sovereignty, cultural preservation, and contemporary indigenous social issues. Students also explore literature, art, and spiritual practices within indigenous communities. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and cultural competency, preparing students for professional work and advanced studies.
Research Focus: The research focus within the B.A. in American Indian Studies encourages students to explore indigenous topics through historical, cultural, and social lenses. Faculty support research on a variety of themes, including Native American history, indigenous rights, cultural survival, environmental justice, and the impacts of colonization. Students are also encouraged to engage in community-based research projects that contribute to the well-being and empowerment of Native American communities, supporting tribal initiatives and programs.
Industry Engagement: The American Indian Studies program fosters industry engagement through partnerships with tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, museums, and cultural institutions. Students have opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and service learning with Native American communities, providing them with real-world experience in advocacy, policy, and cultural preservation. These connections also help students build a professional network and gain insights into potential career paths in education, law, public service, and social work.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in American Indian Studies provides a global perspective on indigenous issues, encouraging students to examine the diverse ways indigenous peoples are treated and the unique challenges they face in different parts of the world. Students gain a deep understanding of the historical and contemporary struggles of indigenous communities not just in the U.S. but across the globe, drawing connections between Native American experiences and those of indigenous populations in other countries. Study abroad programs and international partnerships offer students further opportunities to engage with global indigenous cultures and issues.
Location
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 19750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $25
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 75 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 54 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, it offers various scholarships to international students to support their educational pursuits. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.
Academic Excellence Awards: The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire provides merit-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements. These awards are often determined by high school or college GPA, standardized test scores, and overall academic performance.
Cultural Diversity Scholarships: Recognizing the importance of diversity, the university offers scholarships specifically designed to support students from underrepresented regions or those with unique cultural backgrounds. These scholarships aim to create a more inclusive campus community.
Leadership and Community Involvement Scholarships: The university values students who exhibit leadership skills and actively contribute to their communities. Scholarships are available for international students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and community service.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, career goals, or involvement in departmental activities.
Global Engagement Scholarships: To encourage international students to actively engage with global perspectives, the university provides scholarships for those who participate in study abroad programs, internships, or research projects with an international focus.
Graduates of the B.A. in American Indian Studies program at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire are well-prepared for careers that advocate for and support Native American communities, as well as for work that addresses indigenous rights and cultural preservation.
Cultural Resource Manager: Cultural resource managers work to protect and preserve Native American artifacts, sacred sites, and other cultural properties. They typically work for government agencies, tribal organizations, or nonprofit organizations, overseeing the management of archaeological and historical sites.
Tribal Government Official: Graduates can pursue careers in tribal governance, helping Native American communities navigate legal, political, and social systems. Positions may include working with tribal councils, managing public policy, and representing tribal interests in government affairs.
Policy Analyst: Policy analysts focused on Native American affairs work to develop and evaluate policies that impact indigenous communities. They work in government agencies, advocacy organizations, or think tanks, analyzing the effectiveness of policies and suggesting improvements.
Social Worker: Many graduates enter the field of social work, advocating for the well-being of Native American individuals and families. They work in community organizations, schools, or healthcare settings, providing support in areas such as mental health, substance abuse, and family services.
Museum Curator/Director: Museum curators and directors specializing in Native American history and culture manage collections, organize exhibitions, and educate the public about indigenous peoples. They may work in museums, cultural centers, or tribal cultural institutions.
Educator/Instructor in American Indian Studies: Some graduates pursue teaching careers at the secondary or post-secondary level, educating students about Native American history, culture, and contemporary issues. This may involve working in schools, universities, or community education programs.
Native American Affairs Coordinator: These professionals work for nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or corporations to create and implement programs that support Native American communities. Their role includes coordinating services, advocating for policy changes, and ensuring that programs are culturally appropriate.
Indigenous Rights Advocate: Advocacy work for Native American rights involves fighting for the preservation of land, resources, and sovereignty. Advocates often work for organizations that promote the legal and political rights of indigenous peoples and can influence government policy on matters such as land reclamation and treaty rights.
Researcher in Indigenous Studies: Graduates may work as researchers in academic institutions or think tanks, contributing to the scholarly understanding of Native American culture, history, and contemporary issues. Research may focus on topics like land rights, social justice, or environmental sustainability.
Environmental Justice Advocate: Many Native American communities are directly impacted by environmental issues such as land contamination and resource extraction. Graduates with a background in environmental studies and American Indian Studies may work in environmental justice, advocating for sustainable and fair practices for indigenous populations.
Community Organizer: Graduates can pursue careers in community organizing, working with Native American tribes and organizations to raise awareness, mobilize resources, and advocate for social and political change. This includes managing outreach campaigns and working with local and national groups to address critical issues.
Journalist/Writer: Some graduates become journalists or writers, reporting on indigenous issues, telling the stories of Native American communities, and raising awareness about important cultural and political topics. They work in various media outlets, including print, digital, and broadcast journalism.
Attorney (Specializing in Native American Law): Graduates can pursue law degrees and specialize in Native American law, working with tribes to protect their rights, sovereignty, and land interests. Attorneys in this field work for tribal governments, legal advocacy organizations, or private law firms.
Public Health Administrator: Graduates may work in public health roles that focus on the health needs of Native American communities, advocating for better healthcare access, cultural competency in health services, and the improvement of health outcomes within these populations.
Nonprofit Manager: Many graduates take leadership roles in nonprofits dedicated to serving Native American populations, working to secure funding, develop programs, and provide essential services to the community.
