Arizona State University

American Indian Studies (Cultural Resource Revitalization and Sust), MS

The Master of Science program in American Indian Studies with a focus on Cultural Resource Revitalization and Sustainability is designed to prepare students for careers involved in the preservation, management, and revitalization of Native American cultural resources. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes understanding the historical, cultural, and legal contexts that influence Indigenous communities' efforts to sustain their cultural heritage. Students will engage with topics such as indigenous language revitalization, sacred sites protection, cultural heritage management, and policies impacting Native communities. Through coursework, fieldwork, and research projects, students gain practical skills and a nuanced understanding of how to support Indigenous-led initiatives aimed at cultural sustainability and resource preservation. The program also aims to equip students with the knowledge necessary to address contemporary challenges faced by Native communities in maintaining their cultural identities amid changing social, environmental, and political landscapes. Emphasizing community engagement and collaborative approaches, the curriculum encourages students to work closely with Indigenous groups and organizations. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in cultural resource management, tribal governance, non-profit organizations, governmental agencies, and academic research, where they can contribute to the revitalization and sustainable management of Native American cultural resources and heritage.