The first tribally controlled college in the US, serving the Navajo Nation since 1968.
Diné College offers associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, certificate programs, and one master's degree (MS Biology). The college is organized into five schools: Arts and Humanities, Business and Social Science, Diné Studies and Education, Science/Technology/Engineering/Math, and Transformation. The Center for Diné Studies applies Navajo principles to advance student learning through Navajo language, history, and culture. The college also hosts the Uranium Education Program on its Shiprock campus, focusing on radiation and environmental health issues from uranium mining on the Navajo Nation.
The main Tsaile campus features eight octagonally shaped dormitories (designed after traditional Navajo hogans) housing approximately 150 students, plus faculty housing. The campus includes the Kinyaa'áanii Charlie Benally Memorial Library and the Ned A. Hataałi Center. Athletic programs include archery, cross-country, and rodeo. Student demographics show 99% American Indian/Alaska Native enrollment, with 46% low-income and 54% affluent students as of Fall 2023.
Diné College accepts transfer students and international students. The college offers flexible learning options including fully virtual, in-person, and hybrid formats. Dual credit programs are available for high school students. Specific admission deadlines and requirements are available through the admissions office.
Established in 1968 as the first college created by Native Americans for Native Americans, Diné College opened with 340 students and 40 faculty members. The permanent Tsaile campus opened in October 1973 and was officially dedicated in May 1974, costing $12 million to build. In 1994, the college was designated a land-grant institution alongside 31 other tribal colleges. In 2019, the Higher Learning Commission approved its four-year institution status.