Why Study Native American and Indigenous Programs?
Students will learn about and interact with Native peoples and cultures and explore Indigenous history from before Columbus to the impact of global colonialism and the revitalization of Native nations in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
These programs help non-Native students learn respectful ways to interact with Native peoples and cultures, emphasizing the importance of strong, diverse Indigenous communities and building partnerships with non-Native people and governments.
Join the Native American and Indigenous Programs Path
By joining this Path, you will receive advising opportunities specific to this Path.
Contact an Advisor to Get Started
Affiliate with the Native American and Indigenous Programs Path
Follow This Path
This Path focuses on learning and communicating across cultures, embracing Indigenous knowledge in different fields of study. We work closely with Washington Tribes to create special opportunities for Evergreen students. By offering internships, job shadowing and access to technology and research, we help increase job possibilities with Tribal and other governments after graduation.
Getting Started
Get Involved with Native American and Indigenous Programs
Whether you are a new student or just new to this Path, check out the New Student Handbook to learn how to get started at Evergreen and find your people on campus.
- Meet students and faculty in your path by attending path events
- Get guidance on your academic journey and career goals by meeting with an Academic Advisor or Faculty member
- Take a First-year program to explore a variety of subjects and disciplines
- Engage in campus culture by attending club meetings and campus events like lectures, films, and performances
- Attend the Academic Fair to meet faculty and learn about upcoming programs
Years 1 - 2
Try new things and explore all your options
- Take an entry level program associated with the Native and Indigenous Programs Path, this will prepare you for intermediate and advanced study later
- Take the time to explore, your Evergreen experience should be your own, we recommend taking an additional interdisciplinary program outside the path (like math, science, or art) for at least one quarter
- Consider a single-subject language course or taking a program with a language component to prepare you for global learning
- Stay in touch with your faculty and get support and mentorship by attending their office hours
Year 3
Dig deep and strengthen your connections
- Now that you have a few years under your belt, it’s time to take intermediate and intermediate-to-advanced level programs that incorporate individual projects and out-of-class experiences
- Start thinking about ways to gain experience outside of your programs, like through an Internship or Study Abroad program
- Consider registering for a Summer course or program or applying for a paid Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship
- Plan your final year by connecting with your faculty and Academic Advisor to plan your capstone, your final programs, and what you may need for careers or graduate school
Year 4
Finish strong and get ready for your next steps
- Take intermediate-to-advanced and advanced level programs focusing on your chosen field or discipline
- If you have room to take a few extra credits, consider registering for a Study Abroad experience or a single-subject course to round out your schedule
- Design and complete your capstone with the support of your faculty
- Connect with your faculty and Academic Advisor to make plans for applying for jobs or graduate school
Capstone
A Capstone is a final project or experience, usually done in your final year, created to demonstrate your knowledge and abilities in your chosen skill area.
Your capstone will demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities you have gained at Evergreen and is a great way to showcase what you have learned in a way that matters to you.
Capstone Design
Like everything else at Evergreen, your capstone experience is yours to customize. Capstones can take the form of a:
- Senior thesi
- Independent project
- Individual Study or Internship
- Study abroad experience
- Artistic portfolio
Planning Your Capstone
Your faculty will provide guidance on how best to blend subjects, academic and creative experiences, and your personal academic journey. Capstone opportunities are offered through various Individual Study experiences
- Complete an ILC or INT with a faculty member in your Path
Faculty Mentorship and Support
Faculty are always excited to talk about their fields and welcome students during their office hours to discuss your interests and answer questions about their Field of Study.
Faculty mentorship is a key piece of an Evergreen education. Your faculty are ready to support you not just through your course work, but through any experience you want to explore. Faculty act as mentors and advisors in many capacities and will be valuable resources throughout your academic journey and beyond.
We have a wide variety of faculty covering a range of disciplines ready to support you during your time at Evergreen.
Experiential Learning
House of Welcome Longhouse Education and Cultural Center
A gathering place for indigenous arts and cultures through education, cultural preservation, creative expression, and economic development. Participate in multicultural classes, presentations, performances, and more.
s'gʷi gʷi ʔ altxʷ: House of Welcome
Indigenous Arts Campus
The Indigenous Arts Campus is a one-of-a-kind resource. The campus includes s'gʷi gʷi ʔ altxʷ: House of Welcome Longhouse Education and Cultural Center, a fiber arts studio, and a carving studio.
With these facilities and the amazing faculty and staff on this Path, you’ll learn about Indigenous arts and cultures, craft your own works, and expand your understanding of Indigenous histories and cultures.
Community Service
This Path gives you lots of opportunities to make a difference in the community. Many students find internships or volunteer work through our centers and institutes.
You’ll also have opportunities to work with Indigenous tribes throughout the region that connect with Evergreen on a regular basis, giving you the chance to learn from and work with them as a student.