Indigenous Academic Pathways

The Indigenous Academic Pathways program is a four-day pre-orientation program for incoming first-years and rising sophomores

Indigenous Academic Pathways

The Indigenous Academic Pathways program serves undergraduate students interested in developing a grounding in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) and Indigenous Research (IR) Methods as they begin their journeys at Northwestern. Students will learn about cutting-edge research being conducted by faculty and the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research across a range of disciplines (e.g., engineering, psychology, community health, history, anthropology, education) and opportunities to engage in scholarship focused on, and in partnership with, Indigenous communities. Students will also engage and widen kinship circles with the Indigenous community on campus and throughout the Chicagoland region.

About the Program

Indigenous Academic Pathways is open to all incoming undergraduate first-year students and rising sophomores. Students must commit to being present for the entire program. Participation in other pre-orientation programs that overlap with Indigenous Academic Pathways is not allowed.

Participation in the Indigenous Academic Pathways program is free, including housing, meals, workshops, excursions, and social opportunities. Students will move into their residence hall at the start of the program.

VISIT THE Indigenous Academic Pathways WEBSITE

2025 Important Dates

• Application Open: April 2025
• Application Deadline: Monday, June 6, 2025 
• Move-In Date: Thursday, September 4, 2025
• Program Concludes: Monday, September 8, 2025