Provides an overview of modern and historical American Indian communities in the United States. Explores political and historical issues of major tribes and Indian communities by region. Provides students with information and perspectives on key social and cultural issues: spirituality, relations with the Federal government, notable individuals, art, literature, dance, media, health, education and activism.

Investigates the history of Utah's five principal cultural groups from the pre-Columbian period to the present. Considers how economic processes, cross-cultural influences, and changing Federal and State policies have shaped American Indian communities and individuals in and around Utah. Examines how identity and culture in native communities have been defined and redefined through the processes of migration (both native and non-native), conquest, assimilation efforts, and cultural persistence.

Discusses the Federal Indian Policies that dictated the educational philosophies and practices of native people. Offers a historic overview of Indian education from first contact with European settlers through contemporary American Indian/Alaskan Native education. Examines the effects of Federal Indian Policies related to the use of boarding schools and the long-term effects the experience had on Native students.

Explores the history, political economy, and epidemiology of American Indian health issues in the United States. Examines the effects of the pandemics brought by the European conquest, the changing Native views and practices in health, the Federal government's practical and legal assumption of responsibility for Native health, and the development of the administration and organization for Native health. Considers modern health issues ranging from diabetes to domestic violence, and the policy responses to them.

Introduces students to the important and unique body of law known as American Indian Law. Covers the history of federal Indian law and policy; the federal-tribal relationship; tribal sovereignty and self-government; state authority in Indian country; Indian religion and culture; concepts of property in Indian law; and hunting, fishing, and water rights.

Examines American Indian law in treaties, statutes, case law, regulations, and executive orders. Analyzes various policy approaches to the federal trust relationship, tribal sovereignty over internal affairs, civil jurisdiction over tribal lands, management of natural resources of tribal lands, and cultural preservation. Studies the traditional and modern forms of various Indian tribal governments.