Tribal Governance
Department Overview
At the Department of Tribal Governance, the heart of our mission is to strengthen tribal sovereignty and leadership. Central to our philosophy is the interconnected relationship between tribal self-governance and community well-being. Our courses and curriculum are designed and delivered in response to requests by tribal partners. We recognize, utilize and uplift Indigenous ways of life and knowledge, and we often call upon tribal leaders, experts and Elders to share their knowledge.We currently offer culturally responsive, place-based curriculum, training, and workshops focused on Tribal governance and law, Tribal stewardship, Tribal administration and management, Tribal policy and advocacy, and Tribal economies.
A.A.S., Certificate, Minor, Tribal Governance
The Department of Tribal Governance provides skills and knowledge needed for positions within tribal, local and community governments and organizations across Alaska. In response to the broad variety of job-related skills needed by tribal leaders, councils, administrators and staff, the tribal governance A.A.S., certificate and minor programs allow students to tailor their education for specific employment-related skills. The Department of Tribal Governance provides students with fundamental knowledge of tribal governance, law, policy and management through academic and hands-on education and training in subject areas important to tribal governments. Students work closely with their academic advisor to choose courses in one or more areas of study that target their employment needs.
Students entering either the certificate or A.A.S. degree program will meet with a faculty advisor to discuss program content, requirements and planning.
Minimum Requirements for Tribal Governance Certificate: 30 credits; for A.A.S. Degree: 60 credits
Minimum Requirement for Tribal Governance Minor: 15 credits
Learn more about the certificate and associate degree in tribal governance, including an overview of the programs, career opportunities and more.
Occupational Endorsement, Tribal Justice
The occupational endorsement in tribal justice provides education specific to tribal courts and tribal justice in Alaska, preparing tribal court judges, clerks and administrators for employment in the tribal justice field. The endorsement also provides a pathway for continuing education for tribal justice professionals in Alaska. Applicants must be 16 years old to be admitted.
Minimum Requirements for Tribal Justice Occupational Endorsement: 9 credits
Courses
Tribal Governance (TG)
TG F101 Introduction to Tribal Government in Alaska (an)
3 Credits
Offered Fall
An introduction to the study of tribal government and politics in Alaska, including tribal legislative and judicial and administrative responsibilities. Presents key concepts of federal Indian law, self-determination and self-governance for building and enhancing tribal governments.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F102 Essentials of Tribal Government (an)
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
This course will provide an overview of tribal council executive, legislative and judicial responsibilities including tribal council role in writing laws, basics of tribal sovereignty, sovereign immunity and rights of tribal members.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 2 times for up to 2 credits
TG F103 Introduction to Tribal Administration
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
This course will review the knowledge, skills and abilities required to successfully serve as a Tribal Administrator for Tribal Government within Alaska, including: introduction to Federal Indian Law, basics of Tribal Self-Governance/BIA 638 Contracts programs and funding, overview of tribal financial management, reporting fundamentals and role of the Tribal Administrator.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 2 times for up to 2 credits
TG F105 Introduction to Managing Tribal Governments (an)
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Tools and methods for the management and oversight of tribal government programs and organizations. Student evaluation includes how well the student affects changes in tribal operations and tribal management.
Prerequisites: Must be familiar with computer and related word processing and spreadsheet programs.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F110 Tribal Court Development for Alaska Tribes
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
An introduction to tribal court development in Alaska. Will focus on a practical understanding of key concepts for developing a tribal court process in rural Alaska. Will explore the differences and relationships between tribal, state, and federal justice systems, including concepts of jurisdiction and due process.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F111 Children's Topics in Tribal Justice
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
Overview of children's cases in tribal justice. Preparation for informed participation in the tribal justice system as it affects children and families. Topics such as the Indian Child Welfare Act, child protection, child custody and tribal adoptions will be addressed.
Recommended: TG F110.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F112 Federal Indian Law for Alaska Tribes (an)
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
Introduction to federal Indian law, focusing on the impacts to modern Alaskan tribal governments. Particular attention will be given to the relationship between federal Indian law and tribal justice systems in Alaska.
Recommended: TG F110.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F113 Tribal Code Development
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
Focuses on development of written tribal codes, including the importance of incorporating traditional unwritten laws and values into modern written codes. Particular attention will be given to the relationship between written tribal laws and tribal justice systems.
Recommended: TG F110.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F114 Tribal Justice Responses to Community and Domestic Violence
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
Focuses on role of the tribal justice system in responding to community and domestic violence, including the use of tribal protective orders under the federal Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
Recommended: TG F110.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F115 Tribal Court Administration
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
Focuses on the administration of tribal courts in Alaska and the role of the tribal court clerk. Key concepts and strategies related to the effective administration and operation of tribal justice systems in Alaska will be discussed.
Recommended: TG F110.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F116 Juvenile Justice in Tribal Court
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
Focuses on concepts and strategies impacting juveniles in tribal justice systems. Special focus will be given to issues of juvenile delinquency, strategies in sentencing and community monitoring, as well as, youth courts and community justice theories.
Recommended: TG F110.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F117 Tribal Court Enforcement of Decisions
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
Focuses on role of the tribal government and justice system in enforcement of tribal court decisions in rural Alaska, including monitoring of offenders. Key concepts and strategies related to enforcement of tribal court decisions, including writing effective orders and monitoring of offenders, will be discussed.
Recommended: TG F110.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F118 Tribal Community and Restorative Justice
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
Focuses on concepts and strategies in community justice, restorative justice, tribal peacemaking and other prominent judicial theories impacting modern Alaskan tribal jurisprudence.
Recommended: TG F110.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
TG F120 Introduction to Tribal Natural Resources Stewardship (an)
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Examination of foundations, principles and goals of tribal natural resources stewardship. Including the history of tribal stewardship in Alaska, covering state and federal natural resources laws and management systems. The course will also introduce concepts and tools in developing tribal natural resources stewardship programs, including successful contemporary models.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F140 Introduction to Geospatial Data
1 Credit
Offered As Demand Warrants
An introductory survey of tools for the gathering and mapping of both qualitative and quantitative geospatial data for the natural and social sciences. Students will get direct experience with basic tools and techniques for gathering geospatial data, and will incorporate their data into an existing geospatial database.
Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy equivalent to CIOS F100.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F141 Practical GIS for Rural Alaska
2 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
Practical and place-based introduction to the development of maps using Geographic Information System (GIS) software. Covers basic tools and skills necessary for creating community maps using existing geospatial data as well as data gathered using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. Class exercises emphasize applications pertinent to rural Alaska map development.
Prerequisites: TG F140.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F142 Practical GIS Project Design
2 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
How to design and implement basic Geographic Information System (GIS) projects. Class exercises emphasize GIS project planning, data collection, and practical map development to meet common needs for communities in rural Alaska.
Prerequisites: TG F141.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F160 Indigenous Culture and Science Camp
1-3 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
Introduction to Indigenous culture and relationships to science, held in conjunction with a Tribally/Community sponsored Indigenous Culture and Science Camp (ICSC). ICSCs provide an opportunity to experience Alaska Native culture(s), Indigenous knowledge and Indigenous science through hands-on and traditional practices. ICSCs explore experiential Indigenous and science learning opportunities.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 13.3-39.9 + 0 + 13.3-39.9
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 9 times for up to 9 credits
TG F161 Tribal and Community Leadership Development
1-3 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
This course explores effective tribal/community leadership development, examining place-based, culturally-relevant key leadership qualities and skills in tribal and Alaska Native communities. Students will explore how to put leadership into action for community wellbeing. Course is elder led, with a focus on tribal values and cultural practices, and including tribal/community leaders.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 13.3-39.9 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 9 times for up to 9 credits
TG F162 Tribal Youth Advocacy
1-3 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
This course provides space for tribal youth leaders to: ground their advocacy in their culture and values; find and strengthen their voice; identify key youth advocacy priorities; grow advocacy fluency and develop advocacy plans. The course provides opportunity to practice and share Indigenous languages and cultural activities, guided by elders.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 13.3-39.9 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 9 times for up to 9 credits
TG F199 Tribal Management Practicum I
3 Credits
Professional and personal development while working in a rural service organization. Emphasis on developing the understanding and skills necessary for delivery of rural services. Course is guided by an academic advisor. Student must be willing and able to work independently outside the classroom and in the community.
Prerequisites: Must be familiar with computer and related word processing and spreadsheet programs.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F201 Tribal Government in Alaska II (an)
3 Credits
Offered Spring
A study of tribal government and politics in Alaska. Explores the historical relationships among tribal, state and federal government in Alaska. Provides a focus on tribal sovereignty and self-determination for building and enhancing tribal governments.
Prerequisites: TG F101.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F205 Managing Tribal Governments II (an)
3 Credits
Offered Spring
Advanced tools and methods for the management and oversight of tribal government programs and organizations. Student evaluation includes how well the student affects changes in tribal operations and tribal management
Prerequisites: TG F105.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F221 Tribal Participation in Federal Fish and Wildlife Management Systems
1-3 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
Introduction to Tribal Government/Citizen participation in Federal Subsistence Management in Alaska as it pertains to promoting traditional ways of life. This course will review: ANILCA Title 8; Tribal Consultation; administration/structure/operations of Federal Subsistence Management. Experiential learning includes development of testimony and/or participation in Federal meetings.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 16
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 9 times for up to 9 credits
TG F222 Tribal Participation in State Fish and Game Management Systems
1-3 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
Introduction to Tribal Government/Citizen participation in State of Alaska fish and game management as it pertains to promoting traditional ways of life. Review of administration/structure/operations of fish and game management, including Local Advisory Committees, and/or Board of Fish/Game. Experiential learning includes development of testimony and/or participation in state meetings.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 16
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 9 times for up to 9 credits
TG F225 Tribal Natural Resources Stewardship in Practice
3 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
This course explores effective tribal natural resources stewardship efforts, examining place-based, culturally relevant program development and implementation at the tribal level. This course will build tools, skills and knowledge for integrated stewardship programming. Examine contemporary issues and identify and discuss underlying Indigenous and Western concepts.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
TG F250 Current Topics in Tribal Government
1-3 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
Various topics of current interest to Tribal Governments and Tribal Management students. Topics announced prior to each offering and course may be repeated for credit.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 9 times for up to 9 credits
TG F299 Tribal Management Practicum II
3 Credits
Professional and personal development while working in a rural service organization. Emphasis on developing the understanding and skills necessary for delivery of rural services. Course is guided by an academic advisor. Student must be willing and able to work independently outside the classroom and in the community.
Prerequisites: Must be familiar with computer and related word processing and spreadsheet programs.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
Faculty
Michelle Demmert, J.D.
Assistant Professor
Kevin M. Illingworth, J.D.
Professor and Department Chair
Carrie Stevens, M.I.I.M.
Associate Professor
Laura Zimin, M.A.
Assistant Professor
Bristol Bay Campus
Affiliate Faculty
Jim Simon, Ph.D.
Affiliate Professor
Siġvanna (Meghan) Tapqaq, J.D.
Affiliate Professor
