American Indian Studies (Tribal Leadership and Governance), MS
Degree Awarded: MS American Indian Studies (Tribal Leadership and Governance)
The Master of Science program in American Indian studies with a concentration in tribal leadership and governance is designed for individuals committed to advancing the goals of Indigenous communities through effective governance and leadership practices. In this interdisciplinary program, students gain a deep understanding of the distinct political, cultural and legal frameworks that shape tribal nations, preparing them to become effective community leaders.
The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, covering essential topics such as tribal sovereignty, governance structures, decision-making processes and community development. Students explore traditional Indigenous practices and contemporary governance models, gaining insights into balancing cultural values with modern goals and challenges. Key focus areas include economic development, environmental stewardship, legal frameworks and community engagement. The program emphasizes ethical leadership and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that graduates approach their work with respect for Indigenous values and traditions.
Students learn from Indigenous research scholars, community leaders, and practitioners who bring rich perspectives and experiences to the classroom. This collaborative environment fosters critical dialogue and encourages students to reflect on their roles as community partners and advocates. By engaging with diverse voices and perspectives, students develop a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities within tribal governance. Through a combination of theoretical insights and practical experience, this program prepares students to address the complex challenges facing tribal nations and to advocate for sustainable, culturally relevant solutions. Students have the opportunity to elevate tribal leadership and contribute to the empowerment of Indigenous peoples.
- Communicate effectively about complex issues related to Native American communities, both orally and in writing.
- Conduct research using methodologies that are culturally sensitive and respectful of Indigenous communities.
- Propose a policy structure to address a legal issue impacting an Indigenous nation or community.
Degree Requirements
Curriculum Plan Options
- 30 credit hours including the required applied project course (AIS 593)
- 30 credit hours and a thesis
Required Core (6 credit hours)
AIS 501 Foundations of American Indian and Indigenous Studies (3)
AIS 514 Indigenous Thinkers and Intellectual Traditions (3)
Methods Requirement (3 credit hours)
AIS 525 Critical Indigenous Research Methodologies (3) or
AIS 535 Indigenous Participatory Action Research (3)
Concentration (9 credit hours)
Electives (6 or 9 credit hours)
Culminating Experience (3 or 6 credit hours)
AIS 593 Practicum (3) or
AIS 599 Thesis (6)
Additional Curriculum Information
As a culminating experience, students must complete a thesis or an applied project. The choice between the two typically depends on the student's career goals and interests. A thesis is primarily research-oriented and involves formulating a research question, conducting a literature review and employing rigorous methodologies to gather and analyze data. A thesis should demonstrate the student's ability to conduct independent research and provide insights that advance academic knowledge, and it can serve as a stepping stone for further academic pursuits, such as a PhD. An applied project is just as rigorous but more practice-oriented and is designed to solve real-world problems or address specific issues within a community, organization or field. It emphasizes the practical application of knowledge rather than purely theoretical research. Applied projects often focus on improving practices, policies or programs within a particular setting.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field such as history, justice studies, sociology, ethnic studies, anthropology, political science or education from a regionally accredited college or university of recognized standing.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- personal essay
- writing sample
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
The personal essay should be three to four pages and indicate the applicant's research experience and training, professional goals and research interests, and the fit between their interests and the program's emphases, requirements, current faculty and coursework.
The writing sample should be 12 to 15 pages; relevant policy papers or reports, and research papers for an academic course are examples of acceptable types of writing samples.
Flexible Degree Options
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an
accelerated bachelor's and master's degree
with:
BS - American Indian Studies
American Indian Studies Program Website | Locations: TEMPE
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.
Concurrent degree program
Students can choose to create their own concurrent degree combination to match their interests by working with their academic advisor during or after their first semester of study. Some concurrent combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum; students should speak with their academic advisor for more details.
This degree is also offered as a concurrent program with the following:
Public Administration, MPA
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Career Opportunities
Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of roles working with or for tribal governments, tribally serving government agencies, policymakers, nonprofit organizations and community-based initiatives. They emerge as skilled leaders capable of navigating the intricacies of tribal administration, policy development and community engagement. Whether working in economic development, environmental management or social services, graduates are prepared to drive positive change and enhance the well-being of Indigenous communities.
Program Contact Information
If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.
- [email protected]
- 480/965-3634