A Native American elder talks to a group of students.

Native American Studies

In addition to a major of your choice, immerse yourself in the study of Native American history, law and culture, with options to work on topics ranging from indigenous food systems, tribal government, and fine art.

Native American Studies – Minor

Students in the Native American Studies undergraduate program at Montana State are able to enhance their core studies with an interdisciplinary investigation of historical and contemporary Native American life. Designed for Native American and non-Native students alike, the Native American Studies minor is perfect for expanding an understanding in the field or for those who are preparing for a career in tribal affairs.

 

 

In building Montana State’s American Indian Hall, a committee of MSU and Montana’s native community came together to choose major public art works to decorate the Hall, including work from Bently Spang (Northern Cheyenne) and Robert Martinez (Northern Arapaho).

 

 

An illustration of a graduation cap.

Cultural Commitment
Montana State is one of only a few universities to offer a graduate program in Native American Studies that is housed within a dedicated Native American Studies department and located in a university community with a large, active Native population.

An illustration of an eye wide open.

American Indian Hall
 American Indian Hall serves as a home to Montana State'sNative American community as well as a bridge between American Indian culture and other cultures on campus.

An illustration of two hands clasped in a handshake.

Home Away from Home
The Department of Native American Studies is committed to supporting opportunities for community building, collaborative scholarship and providing a home at Montana State for both Native students and their allies.

 

 

 

Career Resources

Within their first year of graduation, more than 96% of Montana State graduates are employed, continuing their education or not seeking employment, and career guidance website Zippia consistently ranks MSU as the #1 school in the state where alumni are most likely to land jobs.

Career Coaching & Professional Skills Studio

Professional career coaches help students with their career exploration, employer networking opportunities and job or internship searches. They also critique resumes and help students practice job interviews. Additionally, the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success offers free workshops for students to develop the professional communication and collaboration skills that are highly sought after by employers.

Careers

Native American Studies students at Montana State University go into careers such as:

  • Tribal Law & Policy
  • Tribal Government
  • Higher Education
  • Advocacy
  • Non-Profit Work

To explore more career possibilities, the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success has a variety of tools available , including self-assessment and working with career coaches.