American Indian Studies
California Indian Conference 2024
Welcome to AIS
Territorial Acknowledgement
The Fresno State campus sits in the midst of the San Joaquin Valley, a valley rich in the traditions and representation of Native American peoples and cultures. We are grateful to be in the traditional homelands of the Yokuts and Mono peoples, whose diverse tribal communities share stewardship over this land. Learn more here: The Yokuts and Mono
American Indian Studies is an interdisciplinary program that offers students opportunities
to study the governments, nations, cultures, and social structures of American Indian
societies and American Indian societies within the context of the United States. The Program's curriculum focuses on and prioritizes American Indian intellectual practices,
traditional knowledge systems, and indigenous teaching and leadership methodologies
to engage all students in diverse learning experiences, grow their understanding and
competency in American Indian Studies, and prepare students to live and work in American
Indian, Indigenous, and diverse communities locally and globally. The interdisciplinary nature of American Indian studies allows students to gain an
understanding of the core fields of American Indian studies and create a degree program
that serves their unique academic and professional goals. AIS curriculum intersects
the fields of history, law, philosophy, anthropology, economics, media studies, health
services, environmental, and women and gender studies.
American Indian Studies offers a major and minor, research, internship, and mentorship opportunities. The faculty work with programs across campus and community partners and offer students opportunities for personal and professional growth.