Native American Studies

Program Office
Nichols Hall 214
(707) 664-2458
nams.sonoma.edu

Coordinator
Erica Tom

For faculty information, please see Faculty or the Native American Studies faculty web page.

The Native American Studies program is designed to provide a minor with a multidisciplinary approach to Native Americans through ethnography, history, sociology, and the humanities. By approaching the multiplicity of Indian cultures from a variety of academic perspectives, a deeper understanding of native societies, past and present, will emerge. The program is designed to present a variety of American Indian experiences and issues within the wider context of human history and evolution. The program is especially interested in providing teachers, community service personnel, tribal administrators, and other interested persons with useful skills in dealing with indigenous/native communities. Special emphasis will be placed on assisting educators with practical and theoretical approaches to Indian education. Students in the NAMS minor are also encouraged to apply for internships to gain direct experience in working with tribal organizations and communities.

Students may develop a special major in Native American studies; those interested should review the guidelines for special majors and consult the program coordinator.

Programs

Minor

Native American Studies, Minor