Native American and Indigenous Studies, Minor

The Native American and Indigenous Studies (NAIS) Initiative at Penn features an inter-disciplinary Minor that focuses on the cultures and histories of Native Americans, First Nations, and other Indigenous peoples. Students can explore a diverse range of topics, including cross-cultural historical encounters, heritage landscapes, language recovery, cultural performance, law and sovereignty, museum anthropology, archaeology, decolonizing methods, and more. Many NAIS courses are cross-listed in more than one department (e.g., Anthropology, History). NAIS Faculty often use comparative case studies of Indigenous communities in different world settings, past and present, to illuminate current issues, locally and globally. 

NAIS courses must be taken for a grade (not pass/fail). Students must achieve a grade no lower than a C in each course.

Minor Requirements
Core Requirement
ANTH 1490Introduction to Native American and Indigenous Studies1
or ANTH 2307 Contemporary Native Americans
Thematic Courses
Select 3 course units of Thematic courses3
Related Courses
Select 2 course units of Related courses2
Total Course Units6

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.