Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Indigenous Studies at the University of Kansas offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary program grounded in Native and Indigenous histories, sovereignty, cultural knowledge, and contemporary community issues.
The master’s in Indigenous Studies enables you to become an innovative and capable scholar and leader who brings Indigenous perspectives to academic settings, government and other public service, and the private sector. ISP equips you with the knowledge and skills to conduct theoretical and applied research and to develop innovative solutions to issues facing Indigenous communities.
As one of the leading Indigenous Studies programs in the region, KU’s program fosters interdisciplinary study across history, anthropology, political science, environmental studies, law, urban planning, linguistics, and related fields.
The master’s in Indigenous Studies at KU is structured to prepare students for both academic and professional pathways. Whether pursuing doctoral study, leadership within tribal governments, nonprofit work, museum and cultural resource management, or policy development, graduates leave prepared to contribute thoughtfully and effectively. Faculty mentorship plays a central role in the experience, with individualized guidance for thesis research or applied scholarship.
Key features of the program include:
- Comprehensive coursework in Indigenous history, governance, law, culture, and contemporary social issues
- Training in community-engaged and tribally responsive research methodologies
- Opportunities for fieldwork and collaboration with Native and Indigenous communities
- Close mentorship from faculty specializing in Indigenous studies scholarship
- Flexible degree pathways aligned with academic or professional goals
Through this masters in Indigenous Studies, students develop both theoretical insight and practical experience, ensuring they are prepared to support Indigenous sovereignty, self-determination, and cultural resilience in diverse professional contexts.
Learn more about KU
Graduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Indigenous Studies, MAKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Indigenous Studies Program is housed in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Master’s in Indigenous Studies Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the MA in Indigenous Studies will be able to:
- Exhibit an advanced level of knowledge in Indigenous scholarship and issues relevant to the field.
- Demonstrate growth in engaging with a variety of culturally diverse perspectives, both in scholarship and practice.
- Demonstrate interdisciplinary growth by establishing scholarly connections between Indigenous Studies and other fields of interest.
- Communicate effectively through scholarly writing.
- Demonstrate an understanding of responsible and ethical practices for engaging with Indigenous communities when conducting research and scholarship.
- Produce a valuable contribution to the field of Indigenous Studies (capstone experience - thesis, portfolio, or comprehensive exam).
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in Indigenous Studies
Graduates of the master’s in Indigenous Studies pursue careers across public service, nonprofit leadership, education, research, and tribal governance. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree supports diverse professional pathways, including:
- Cultural preservation
- Policy advocacy and development
- Nonprofits focused on Indigenous communities
- Higher education leadership and research
According to Lightcast, employment for graduates with a master’s in Native American studies is projected to grow approximately 9% over the next decade, with median national compensation around $46,000 per year. Career outcomes vary by industry and region, but the skills gained in this master’s in Indigenous Studies position graduates for meaningful, community-centered work.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The University of Kansas offers competitive tuition rates, and several financial aid options are available for eligible students. For more information on tuition costs, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities, visit KU’s Office of Financial Aid.
Graduates of Haskell Indian Nations University qualify for resident tuition rates.
Admission Requirements
Please visit the Indigenous Studies’ website for more information about the admissions process, including upcoming application deadlines.
Required Application Materials:
- 2-page personal statement explaining how a master’s degree in Indigenous Studies will benefit you and why you will successfully complete the degree. The personal statement should answer:
- Resume or curriculum vitae listing your educational and employment history, any scholarships/fellowships, internships, awards, etc.
- Writing sample of at least 10 pages
- Three letters of recommendation from instructors (current or former)
- Official transcript(s) from all undergraduate or graduate institution(s) from which you have earned or will earn a degree.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in this master’s program engage in research and learning experiences that connect scholarship to Indigenous communities.
Graduate students may participate in conferences, public events, cultural programming, and research initiatives that elevate Indigenous voices and perspectives.
Master’s in Indigenous Studies Sample Courses
Course offerings within the masters in Indigenous Studies may include:
- Indigenous Issues in the United States
- Ethnobotany
- Tribal Governance and Sovereignty in Action
- Indigenous Peoples’ Science
- Leadership, Advocacy, and Action in Indigenous Education
For more details on courses, please refer to the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Indigenous Studies Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
The fall application deadline is August 5 with a funding priority deadline of April 1. The spring application deadline is December 17.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.