Academics at Diné College

College History

Diné College is the first tribally controlled and accredited (by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools) collegiate institution in the United States. Established in 1968 as Navajo Community College, it was later renamed Diné College. The Navajo Nation sought to create an institution of higher education that encouraged Navajo youth to become contributing members of the Navajo Nation and the world. Under the direction of an eight-member Board of Regents, appointed by the Navajo Nation President and confirmed by the Health, Education and Human Services Committee of the Navajo Nation Council, the College continues its goals for student success. Today, Diné College serves a predominantly Navajo student population across the 26,000 square miles of the Navajo Nation that spans across the states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. The College offers General Education courses that provide students with a high-quality experience while earning various Certificate as well as Associate and Bachelor degree programs in the areas important to the economic, political, environmental, and the Social Development of the Navajo People.