• American Indian Studies Credential
• Mormon Migration Credential
• Oregon Trail Credential
• Program gains national attention
• Students switching majors
• Summer Field Studies Course

The Western American Studies program utilizes an interdisciplinary approach to explore the history, prehistory, anthropology and geography of the peoples that have lived near or crossed the Continental Divide –the “backbone of the continent”– at South Pass in the central Rocky Mountains. The program examines how geography along the Great Divide has defined the local human experience; assesses the racial, religious and cultural divides that have sometimes created chasms between peoples from prehistoric times to the present; seeks to understand gender issues in this area known as the “Birthplace of Woman Suffrage;” analyzes the roles people and geography of the Sweetwater and Wind River area have played in shaping the development of the region and entire American nation; and explains how ecosystems, environmental and land-use issues have shaped local cultures and created “Old West – New West” divides.

    This multi-cultural program provides a solid social science foundation to facilitate successful transfer to four year institutions of higher learning, and inspires a sense of pride in, enriched understanding of, and appreciation for the heritage of this area. The Western American Studies program offers classroom, field schools, and innovative experiential learning opportunities.