Focusing upon the scope of contemporary American Indian tribal development, this Indian Studies syllabus constitutes a three-hour political science course at the college level. Course objectives are identified as understanding: tribal powers as described in tribal constitutions and by-laws; the complexities of tribal sovereignty; Federal and tribal jurisdiction in the area of law and order on Indian reservations; the role of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) in its relationship with Indians; and self-determination through case studies. Presented individually, the five units of this course syllabus parallel the five course objectives and include individual unit objectives, reading materials lists, instructions to the instructor, and student activities. A 28-item bibliography and a 7-item film list are also included. (JC)