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INDIGENOUS LIBERAL STUDIES
The Indigenous Liberal Studies Department administers IAIA’s newest baccalaureate program. It is based in a liberal studies approach that is defined as a program of study that is largely learner directed and includes the humanities, sciences, social sciences and language. The liberal studies process is one of research, reflection, critical inquiry and the exploration of the interrelationships, both between academic disciplines and in the world at large. In many ways it replicates tribal methods of education, which were aimed at developing the whole person by learning through exploration and observation, and by embracing a worldview that encompasses the full breadth of life.
Who We Are
The Indigenous Liberal Studies Department houses many of the academic programs at IAIA and, to the degree possible, all classes and programs are based in Indigenous knowledge, perspectives and materials. The Indigenous Liberal Studies Department uses the following definition of Indigenous: “the first peoples who inhabited a region or place prior to colonization, and their values, culture and way of life.” Indigenous can also refer to global movements of self definition and unity recognized by the United Nations and other international political, economic and social organizations. For example, IAIA currently participates in the World Indigenous Nations Higher Education Consortium and the World Indigenous People’s Conference on Education. For the purpose of IAIA’s Indigenous Liberal Studies program, “Indigenous” is rooted in the experience of American Indians and First Nations of North America.
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Philosophy
Students graduating from IAIA with a bachelor’s degree in indigenous liberal studies will have knowledge of self, culture, and the skills to assist in the revitalization of American Indian nations. Students will contribute to the development of sustainable communities and will continue to strengthen the expression of tribal arts and culture.
Objectives
The objectives of the Indigenous Liberal Studies Department are to provide educational experiences so that students in the program will:
- Possess a broad educational experience that includes the humanities, social and natural sciences, traditional art, and performance.
- Have an understanding of traditional Native American art, the processes for its manufacture and an appreciation for its aesthetics.
- Have a basic understanding of Indigenous knowledge and its application in the contemporary world.
- Have an appreciation and understanding of Indigenous ways of being and their expression in the contemporary world.
- Be able to comprehend the world and express themselves through reading, writing and critical thinking.
Multiple Career Paths
Indigenous liberal studies provides academic classes and programs to fulfill the academic needs of the various IAIA degree plans and offers a bachelor’s degree program in liberal studies that will prepare students for a wide variety of professions. Liberal studies is not geared to a specific career path; instead, a degree in liberal studies exposes the student to a wide variety of disciplines which, in turn, prepares the student for a variety of professions, especially leadership and administration.
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