Overview

The Tribal Administration and Governance programme at the University of Minnesota provides a comprehensive foundation in the legal and administrative frameworks essential for working with tribal nations. Students explore the complex interrelationships between federal, state, and tribal governments while developing practical skills in policy and management.

The curriculum is designed to address the specific needs of Native Nations, offering two distinct tracks in American Indian Studies or a Business Administration Certificate. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education toward their specific career goals in tribal leadership or organisational administration.

Why Tribal Administration and Governance at University of Minnesota?

The university offers a unique learning environment where award-winning faculty provide dedicated mentorship and professional networking opportunities. Students benefit from a curriculum that emphasises the practical application of tribal governance practices, constitutions, and statutes.

The department maintains a strong commitment to Native nations through active consultation, research, and partnerships. Students can also engage with the Indigenous Student Organization, fostering a connection to community and culture while participating in academic and social service activities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 20950 per year
National fee: USD 20950 per year
Local fee: USD 15200 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The core curriculum focuses on the legal principles and business practices necessary for effective tribal administration. Modules may include:

Tribal Sovereignty
Tribal Governance
Federal Indian Law and Policy
Strategic, Project, and Operations Management
Business Practices for Tribal Administration
Personal Leadership Strategies
Federal-Tribal-State Relations

Careers with Tribal Administration and Governance

Graduates are equipped for diverse professional paths within tribal governments, as well as local, state, and federal agencies. The programme prepares individuals for roles such as tribal administrators, liaisons, and community planners focused on economic development.

Common career destinations include positions as grant writers, tribal outreach coordinators, and various leadership roles within non-governmental entities. Many students also choose to progress into the Master of Tribal Administration and Governance to further specialise in the field.

Practical experience is encouraged through internships with organisations such as the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. These opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world issues affecting American Indian peoples.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Learning in Community

Indigenous Leadership

Humanities

Tribal Operation Management

American Indian Diplomacy: Treaties, Compacts, and Agreements

Key information

Duration

Part-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-14 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

Online

Campus Location

Duluth, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies Public Administration View 69 other Bachelors in Public Administration in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

High school transcript(s). Unofficial transcripts are sufficient for currently enrolled students who have not graduated.

Senior year (12th grade) course schedule, if not included on the transcript.

If applicable, college or university transcript(s). Unofficial transcripts are sufficient for currently enrolled students.

ACT/SAT scores (optional)

Grade trends and academic rigor

Personal Statement

Specific courses taken

Submit a one-time $50 non-refundable application fee.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

20950 USD / year

≈ 20950 USD / year
Out-of-State

20950 USD / year

≈ 20950 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

15200 USD / year

≈ 15200 USD / year

Additional Details

International: the cost includes tuition and fees and is for last year. Costs are calculated differently due to visa requirements.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Tribal Administration and Governance.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

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Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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