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Native American studies offers the opportunity to understand and learn from the history and traditions of the indigenous peoples of North, Central and South America. Drawing from the philosophy, politics, social values and arts of Native cultures, the major will provide you with insight into a diverse population of people. You will develop the research capabilities and critical thinking skills to foster a broad understanding of the human experience.
Real World
Native American studies provides excellent preparation for graduate and doctoral studies in a variety of fields or professional careers such as teaching, law, business, human services, health, tribal administration, social work and human resources management. Graduate and professional schools and employers are looking for students with a broad interdisciplinary preparation and who possess knowledge and sensitivity relating to ethnic issues and cultural diversity.
Major Requirements
Students in Native American studies may choose from three plans within the major. The first plan concentrates chiefly on the Native American Experience north of Mexico, the second plan on Meso-America and the third plan on South America. Each plan also includes course work covering other indigenous cultures of the Americas, including the literature, culture and arts of the native cultures. You will work with faculty with research interests in history, religion and philosophy, social sciences, languages and literatures, Indian law and the performing arts.
Major Adviser
Name: Judy LaDeaux
Contact: jaladeaux@ucdavis.edu, (530) 752-3237
A Student Perspective
I came to UC Davis looking for a comfortable setting and atmosphere, and I found that and more with the strong academic focus, well-rounded classes, faculty, staff and support system in the Native American studies major. I chose this major because of my interest in the history and lives of Native peoples and in helping to preserve the culture. Through all that I have learned inside and outside the classroom and the relationships I have formed with faculty, staff and other students, I feel that I am ready to take on graduate school and apply the lessons I have learned at UC Davis to my life.
~ Alisse Ali-Christie, senior
A Faculty Perspective
Native American studies is a great area to major in because it is interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary in nature, and we emphasize a Western Hemispheric perspective in the study of Native American peoples.
~ Steve Crum, faculty adviser
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