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About the CPNAIS Program

The Certificate Program in Native American Indian Studies (CPNAIS) offers students a structured understanding of historical and contemporary issues affecting the Western Hemisphere's First Nations. Students will learn how these issues are embedded in the long histories of Native peoples and their most recent interactions with Europeans and Africans. Those completing the requirements for the Certificate will gain a more sensitive understanding of the unique cultures rooted in this hemisphere. Students will also develop a greater appreciation for the indigenous peoples of eastern North America The program will encourage on-campus roles for visitors from Native communities, supervise student outreach to Native communities and Native related institutions, and enhance the knowledge of students going on to post-baccalaureate education and service. The curriculum is drawn from University of Massachusetts at Amherst course offerings supplemented by courses offered at the four colleges (Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith). The Director and participating university faculty and staff will guide students in creating a coherent and culturally diversified undergraduate experience.