California tribal college gains accreditation, seeks stronger state support
New legislation and accreditation could expand opportunities for Native students pursuing higher education
California Indian Nations College, a tribal college in Palm Desert, has received an eight-year accreditation, according to reporting by CalMatters. College leaders said the accreditation allows the institution to offer associate degrees independently, qualify for federal grants and contracts, distribute federal financial aid and make it easier for students to transfer credits. The college, founded in 2018, has served 517 students and reported that 59% of its 2024 graduates transferred to another college or university.
According to the CalMatters reporting, two bills introduced in the California Legislature would further support tribal higher education. One would add tribal colleges to the state's definition of public higher education, while the other would create transfer pathways between accredited tribal colleges and public higher education systems. College President Celeste Townsend said the accreditation and proposed legislation could help strengthen educational opportunities for Native students and support future funding efforts.
- 1.Ella Carter-Klauschie. CalMatters, .
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