Alaska Native Studies

  • Discovering Alaska's People

    Alaska Native Studies provides an in-depth perspective on contemporary Alaska Native societies, languages, cultures, history, politics, art, tribal governments, and our for-profit as well as our non-profit corporations.

    Learn More About the Program

Instructor discusses cultural items from Southeast Alaska peoples

Students may select one of two areas to complete the requirements for the minor; a policy focus or a language focus. Both of these areas emphasize the dynamic nature of Alaska Native peoples and cultures, and the variety of courses provides a meaningful understanding for native and non-native students alike.

Minor in Alaska Native Studies

AKNS Instructor on Indigenous People's Day

The Associate of Arts (AA) in Alaska Native Studies provides students with a critical and dynamic perspective on Alaska Native cultures, histories, politics and organizations. This AA provides a valuable opportunity for students interested in exploring their options in higher education and/or employment with an Alaska Native organization.

Associate of Arts

Student learns Alutiiq weaving

Many students find a passion for Alaska Native Studies and delve into interesting research topics, ranging from the perspectives on kinship, philosophy, symbolism, and storytelling to examining the psychological and cultural perspectives of human development and well-being of indigenous peoples.

Student Success

Alaska Native Studies Occupational Endorsement Certificates

There are two Occupational Endorsement Certificates (OEC) in Alaska Native Languages offered at UAA: Ahtna Language and Dena’ina Language.

30th Anniversary of Alaska Native Studies at UAA: Upcoming Events

Monday, October 16th: Dr. Georgina Martin

2:30 - 3:45 Social Sciences Building Room 119

She is a member of Williams Lake First Nation; Professor of Indigenous/Xwulmuxw Studies at Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, Canada.

Wednesday, October 18th: Dr. Georgina Martin

6:00 - 7:15 Social Sciences Building Room 119

Addressing Canadian First Nations’ land claims, Canadian residential/boarding schools, and the Truth & Reconciliation process.

 

Thursday, November 2nd: Fiddle Dance

Cuddy Hall 5:30 - 7:30

Workshop on waltz, jig and schottische. Athabascan Fiddling Group

Wednesday, November 15th: Dr. Holly Miowak Guise (Inupiaq)

UAA Consortium Library
Panel - Writers as Detectives: Celebrating Research and Writing in Alaska Native History & Culture
Panel also features Dr. Ian Hartman, Department of History and Arlene Schmuland, Director of the UAA Archives. Moderator: Maria Williams, AKNS.

Thursday, November 16th: Dr. Guise Lecture

6:00-  7:15 in Social Sciences Building Room 118

Holly Miowak Guise (Iñupiaq) is an Assistant Professor of History at the University of New Mexico.

Academic Advising

You are encouraged to consult with an academic advisor, as well as any other faculty members concerning your course of study at UAA.

Find your Advisor

Associated Programs

KPC Alaska Native Studies

KOC OEC in Alutiiq Language

Contact Us

Please feel free to contact us at the Alaska Native Studies office, located in the Social Sciences Building (RM 378) or by phone at (907) 786-6135.

Alaska Native Studies Faculty Directory

Course Descriptions

AKNS Degrees (UAA Course Catalog)

Upcoming AKNS Courses

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