Native American Studies is an interdisciplinary minor committed to the study of the cultures, values, history and contemporary life of the American Indian nations and people of North America. The importance and significance of the indigenous people are critical in understanding the nations in which we live. The Native American Studies minor creates an understanding of the unique legacy of American Indians and their continuing relationship to the development of the United States and Canada. Specific emphasis is placed on the Wabanaki peoples of Maine and Canada, with a secondary focus on the Native peoples of North America. However, students may choose to further diversify their studies by including selected courses on the indigenous people of Central and South America.
Native American Studies is founded on the principles of self-determination and sovereignty. It is committed to academic scholarship and research excellence. We educate and inform all students about the Native experience and the rich cultural heritage of the sovereign Native peoples of the North American continent. Our goal is to teach students, through Native perspectives, to understand Native people, their traditions and their cultures.
In an increasingly diverse society, an understanding of distinct populations is a critical asset. A minor in native American Studies exposes students to, and provides them with, an understanding of historical, economic, social and political forces which have shaped Native experiences in the Americas. It prepares students to live in a multicultural society by giving them the skills to confront racism, discrimination and prejudice. It further empowers students to appreciate and celebrate diversity by understanding the worldviews of a distinct people. The program is designed to augment students’ major programs of study and prepares students for diverse careers in areas such as: public service, nursing, law enforcement, business, education, medicine, counseling, social work, as well as a myriad of other occupations.
The Native American Studies minor involves a minimum of 18 credits of course work focusing on Native Americans with three required NAS-designated courses.
In addition, students may submit courses with considerable Native American content for consideration for inclusion in the Native American Studies minor. The content for such courses may make them suitable as approved electives.
For more information or advising assistance, please see Maureen Smith (maureen.e.smith@umit.maine.edu), Director of Native American Studies in Aubert Hall or call (207) 581-4450.
The University of Maine The University of Maine
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