Navajo Technical University (NTU) has announced the formal approval of a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Diné Culture and Language Sustainability. The accomplishment marks a historic occurrence as it is the first accredited PhD program at a tribal college or university (TCU). The inaugural doctoral program is designed to produce scholars who can conduct research, teach, and lead efforts to retain the Navajo culture and language. The program is now accepting applicants for its first cohort, beginning classes in the fall of 2023.

“The establishment of the doctorate program in Diné Culture and Language Sustainability is a monumental achievement for Navajo Technical University, the Navajo Nation, and tribal colleges and universities throughout the country,” said NTU president Elmer J. Guy, as he confirmed the success and efforts to attain the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) endorsement. “It reflects NTU’s dedication and commitment to reaching new levels of providing the best education for our people and scholars who want to attain prominent degrees near home and at our institution.”

The development of the program is a significant milestone for preserving a diminishing language and culture which has been the focal point of many Navajo Nation educators and administrators over the years. The program’s curriculum will focus on the language, culture, and history of the Diné and will incorporate contemporary issues and challenges facing Indigenous communities.

The program proposes to train its scholars to become acquainted with best practices for promoting and preserving Diné culture and language. Based on the program’s HLC accreditation, all graduates of the program will meet standards and rigor required to complete a PhD. The program succeeds a master’s degree program in Diné culture, language, and leadership that currently has a steady cohort of students.

“Since the inception of the master’s degree in Diné culture, language, and leadership in 2013, our institution has been reaching new heights in all areas, especially in our technology and vocational programs,” said Dr. Guy, as he discussed the various accolades received by the university’s myriad programs. “At NTU we are prepared to meet the technological demands with the needs of culture and language sustainability. The PhD program demonstrates our sincerity to advance those prerequisites.

The accreditation process for NTU doctoral faculty to obtain status to offer the highest degree was a longstanding goal that began five years ago. Its architecture ensures the program meets the highest academic standards recognized by other universities and academic institutions through HLC accreditation. Complementary to the program’s arrangement are the consultation with NTU colleagues, Diné elders, Indigenous scholars, community members, and experts elsewhere in North America.

University officials have scheduled a celebration for the brand-new PhD program which will take place on Monday, April 24, 2023 at NTU’s main campus in Crownpoint. The occasion will feature speeches from prominent members of the Navajo Nation and academia, as well as a traditional Navajo meal and cultural performances.