Defining Native studies programs in Canada and the U.S., this essay presents: (1) Rationale for Native Studies (recognition on the part of the majority of cultural differences; the emergence of an affirmative Native identity; and declining enrollments in colleges); (2) Structural Organization Alternatives (as part of an existing department; as an interdisciplinary program; as a separate degree-awarding department); (3) Goals (to provide cultural awareness for persons preparing to work among Native populations; to provide Native students with a sense of belonging and an indigenous belief system that would provide ethical moorings; to enable Native students to develop an identification with the formal educational system; to provide a forum for discussion of the solution to Native problems; to preserve and promote Native heritage; to promote non-partisan intellectual activity; to serve as an unofficial co-ordinator of other Native programs); (4) Recommendations (development of a Native studies periodical and professional conference to promote idea exchange; formation of a North American Native studies organization to facilitate development of a Native university and to exert political influence upon the administration of Native programs; encouragement/assistance to scholars in Native studies by government and industry; deliberate and courageous Native studies goal clarification/articulation; greater commitment to the academic aspects of Native studies). (JC)