Alaska Native Studies

Research

UAA is a hub for cutting-edge theoretical and applied research in health, engineering, and the physical and social sciences. In nearly every discipline, undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to join research teams and collaborate with experienced faculty mentors.
Research at UAA

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

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 Student

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

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

We invite you to join us for An Evening with Joy Harjo.

October 9: A Special Evening of Poetry and Music; optional VIP reception

VIP Reception: 5:00-6:00 PM

Celebrate performer, musician, and writer Joy Harjo's visit to Alaska with refreshments and informal conversation. Harjo mingle with guests during a portion of the reception in before her 6:30 p.m. presentation. VIP reception tickets include tickets for the evening lecture. $45. Registration required; Limited capacity.

An Evening with Joy Harjo: 6:30-7:30 PM

Join performer, musician, and writer Joy Harjo for a special evening of poetry and music in conjunction with the exhibition Pass the Mic and Indigenous Peoples' Day. As a member of the Muscogee Nation, Harjo is the first Native American to hold the position of US Poet Laureate, appointed 2019-2022. Her recent work and activism poetry anthology "When the Light of the World Was Subdued, Our Songs Came Through," contains poetry from more than 160 poets representing nearly 100 Indigenous nations, including voices from Alaska.

The event will be livestreamed via Crowdcast for free and made available for one month for online registrants. Space is limited; Registration required. $10 General admission for limited seating. Doors open 6 p.m. for general seating.

Reserve your tickets now!