Diné College Course Catalog 2008-2009 (pdf)

Diné College at a Glance
Mission Statement
Diné College is a public institution of higher education chartered by the Navajo Nation. Our mission is to apply the
Sa'ąh Naagháí Bik'eh Hózhóón principles to advance quality student learning:
• Through Nitsáhákees (Thinking), Nahat’á (Planning), Iiná (Living), and Siih Hasin (Assuring).
• In study of the Diné language, history, and culture.
• In preparation for further studies and employment in a multi-cultural and technological world.
• In fostering social responsibility, community service and scholarly research that contribute to the social
economic and cultural well being of the Navajo Nation.
Strategies to Implement the Mission:
• Two-year transfer programs
• Dine Studies and Language
• Developmental Studies
• Research projects and consultant services
• On-site outreach programs
• Articulation with other institutions
• Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
• UD courses in NIS and NAS
Educational Philosophy
Definition of S1’2h Naagh17 Bik’eh H0zh00n in terms of education is: (a) Diné biz11d: Ni’ Asdz11n d00 Y1di[hi[
biyi’d00 Bik2’ii d00 Bi’1adii a[ch’8’ naazl1ago dabiilz8’ d77 bee 1t’4 hwiindzin. D77 bik’ehgo na’nitin d00 0hoo’aah
sil1; (b) English Language: The duality of knowledge in form of Male and Female are present in Mother Earth and
Father Sky. These are the foundations of teaching and learning.
History
Diné College was established in 1968 as the first tribally-controlled community college in the United States. In
creating an institution of higher education, the Navajo Nation sought to encourage Navajo youth to become
contributing members of the Navajo Nation and the world society. Under the direction of an eight-member Board of
Regents confirmed by the Government Services Committee of the Navajo Nation Council, the College serves
residents of the 26,000 square mile Navajo Nation, which spans the states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. As a
postsecondary educational institution, Diné College awards associate degrees and certificates in areas important to
the economic and social development of the Navajo Nation.
Academic Assessment
Diné College has a comprehensive academic assessment program to measure student learning and student
development. Its purpose is to specify measurable student learning outcomes in accordance with the college mission,
assess student learning in terms of the outcomes, and use the results to improve academic programs. Students are
required to participate in assessment activities periodically during their studies at Diné College. Data are collected
when students enter the College, and additional data may be gathered each semester and prior to graduation.
Assessment activities may include surveys, essays, tests, and portfolios. Student responses are confidential and
anonymous and do not effect grades in any way.
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