Programs & Services
AIHEC Programs & Services Overview
AIHEC develops and delivers programs and services that strengthen TCUs and advance the priorities outlined in the AIHEC strategic plan. Working in partnership with member institutions, AIHEC provides leadership development, technical assistance, capacity building, and collaborative initiatives that support student success, institutional effectiveness, workforce development, and community impact.
TCUs have become increasingly important to educational opportunities for American Indian and Alaska Native students and are unique institutions that provide personal attention to encourage American Indians—especially those living on reservations—to overcome the barriers they face to higher education. TCUs provide access to quality, low-cost higher education.
37
Tribal Colleges and Universities
160K+
Students Served
$3.8B
Economic Impact
40K+
Jobs Supported
Programs
Currently, AIHEC has six major program areas that focus on TCU capacity building and student success.
Each program area provides high-impact resources, technical assistance and expertise to TCUs and students.
Cyberinfrastructure
AIHEC strengthens technology capacity and digital infrastructure at Tribal Colleges and Universities, supporting research, STEM education, workforce development, and Tribal data sovereignty. Through strategic planning, technical assistance, and professional development, the CI Team helps TCUs build systems that reflect their own missions and community needs.
Health Initiatives
AIHEC Health Initiatives work alongside TCUs to prepare future healthcare professionals who can meet the health needs of their communities. Programs support student research, culturally grounded learning, and Tribal ownership of the research process — strengthening Tribal nation-building along the way.
Land Grant and Environment
AIHEC's Land Grant and Environment programs support TCUs through education, research, and community outreach focused on agriculture, natural resources, and environmental stewardship. As the newest members of the Land Grant system, TCUs continue building programs rooted in Native knowledge and community priorities.
Native Language and Culture
Through the AIHEC National TCU Center of Excellence on Native Languages, AIHEC builds a community of practice among TCU language faculty and researchers. The initiative supports a Tribal Native Language Revitalization Strategy so each TCU language program has the infrastructure needed to thrive.
Open Education Resources
Open Education Resources helps Tribal Colleges reduce costs and expand access through free, adaptable learning materials. Licensed under Creative Commons rather than traditional copyright, these resources let instructors freely remix content — lowering student costs and promoting innovation.
STEM Workforce
AIHEC’s STEM Initiatives strengthen STEM education, research, and workforce pathways at Tribal Colleges and Universities. Through partnerships, professional development, research collaboration, and capacity-building opportunities, AIHEC supports TCU faculty, staff, and students in expanding access to STEM resources and preparing students for careers that advance Tribal, local, and regional priorities.