The curriculum is designed to provide a study of American Indians from a holistic and humanistic viewpoint by focusing upon their cultures, history, and contemporary life. Courses are designed for both Native American and non-Native American students so they can better understand human similarities and differences, thereby leading to the development of better communications and cross-cultural relationships.

The Native American Studies (NAS) major provides a broad based liberal arts education with a focus on Indian country issues in the past, present, and future. It is interdisciplinary, offering courses from literature to history. The primary skills taught include critical thinking, research, and communication-both written and oral. Students who enroll in NAS courses will learn in-depth about the government-to-government relationship between tribes and the U.S., and the development of the political and social relationship. Students will also learn about various indigenous perspectives of the world including culture and history.