M.A.

The ISP master’s requires 30 credit hours to complete.

This degree enables you to become an innovative and capable scholar and leader who brings Indigenous perspectives to academic settings, government and other public service, and the private sector. ISP equips you with the knowledge and skills to conduct theoretical and applied research and to develop innovative solutions to issues facing Indigenous communities.

You’ll take courses from across KU to create an individualized program of study. Our affiliate faculty members teach in the humanities, social sciences, arts and professional schools.

To graduate, you’ll complete either a thesis or portfolio of your work.

  • ISP 800 Indigenous Issues in the United States (3 credits; offered each fall)
  • 18 hours of coursework with content relevant to the field of Indigenous studies approved by your faculty advisor in consultation with the director.

List of Approved Courses

  • To take courses not on the approved list, you’ll need to demonstrate how your understanding of Indigenous perspectives and/or methodologies will be advanced by taking the course.
  • 9 hours of electives
  • An M.A. examination: an oral exam in which you defend your portfolio, which will be composed of your entire body of work completed in courses counted for the degree
  • ISP 800 Indigenous Issues in the United States (3 credits; offered each fall)
  • 18 hours of coursework with content relevant to the field of Indigenous studies approved by your faculty advisor in consultation with the director.

List of Approved Courses

  • To take courses not on the approved list, you’ll need to demonstrate how your understanding of Indigenous perspectives and/or methodologies will be advanced by taking the course.
  • 6 hours of electives
  • 3 hours of ISP 899 Thesis Hours on an approved subject
  • An M.A. examination: an oral exam in which you defend your thesis. A thesis identifies and analyzes an original issue, question or problem of importance in the field of Indigenous studies. You’ll conduct original research and use appropriate methodologies to generate new knowledge in the form of data, ideas and opinions that withstand careful scrutiny.