What's unique about this major at UWGB
Diversity
Students get excellent experiences in working with diverse populations from this minor, which is not only valuable for your own self identity, but will also make you very attractive to employers!
Origin
Perhaps what makes this program exceptionally unique, is that it was originally created by the Oneida Community itself, as they saw a need for students to get educated on important cultural issues.
Discovery
Students in this program learn and explore real world issues and topics, and are able to apply their knowledge directly to the cultural community of Wisconsin.
Experience
Students have the opportunity to participate in individual studies and internships, which provides extremely valuable experience and prepares students for employment.
Community
The American Indian Studies program also takes an active role in educating the campus community by providing students with programming opportunities, such as workshops and guest speakers.
What's Unique About This Minor?
Knowledge
Students will gain a deep understanding of the Federal Indian Policy, American Indian Justice system and laws, Tribal Sovereignty Issues, and explore the rich history of the American Indian people and culture.
Respect
Students will also gain understanding and respect for cultural diversity, as they learn to appreciate all walks of life.
Life
Aspects of the American Indian way of life are explored, including traditional life ways, spirituality, and ideologies.
Why Earn A First Nations Studies Degree?
- First Nations Studies teaches skills that needed in tribal communities for Nation building.
- First Nations Studies teaches skills that needed in an increasingly diversified workforce and within society as a whole.
These skills include some of the following:
- First Nations language and culture revitalization
- Critical thinking
- Indigenous decision making and indigenous leadership skills
- Oral traditional thinking, listening, remembering, and speaking skills
- Ability to work collaboratively and effectively in groups
- Develop and implement strategies of change in response to problems in tribal communities and beyond
- Ability to develop strong research based arguments grounded in indigenous ways of thinking and being
- Ability to identify and address bias in actions, laws, and policies
- Decolonize thinking, actions, behaviors, norms, etc.
- Intergenerational healing
Highlights of the First Nations Studies Program
- FNS requires students to work with tribal Elders and oral scholars in an oral traditional setting.
- Students create projects that address needs in the Tribal World.
- Teach empowerment, activism, leadership, and problem solving.
- Show case student work to the larger community and beyond.
- Travel Courses and Service Learning