One of the Unique Goals of Diné Studies Program is to promote and perpetuate Navajo Culture. It is the purpose of the Diné Studies program (Beginning 1999-2000 General Catalog) to provide the students with an opportunity to acquire basic principles and information in the major areas of Navajo knowledge. This will enable the students to effectively integrate Navajo and Western ways in meeting the challenges of contemporary life.

An Associate of Arts degree could serve as the basic for continuing a baccalaureate degree in Southwest Studies, American Indian Studies, Anthropology, and other related fields.

Students that begin studies in the Associate of Arts degree program in Navajo Culture, Navajo History and Indian Studies, Bicultural Specialist, and Navajo Bilingual-Bicultural Education programs prior to 1999-2000 General Catalog can still earn degrees . (See prior catalogs for specific requirements).

Diné College offers upper division courses in the areas of Navajo language and culture number 300 through 400. They are intended for students majoring in Navajo Language, and for degree teachers seeking certificates/endorsement for Navajo language teaching in New Mexico and Arizona.

101 Navajo Pottery (3) ±

Emphasis on the origin Navajo pottery. Includes development of pottery wares as an extension of human tools. Projects include making pottery, design and glaze.

103 Navajo Basketry (3) ±

Series of lectures: the origin, purpose, philosophy, and function of baskets as they developed in the Navajo's social economic process. Projects include making baskets and water jugs, and using traditional designs.

105 Navajo Weaving I (3) ±

Series of lectures on the origin, purposes, philosophy, and historical development of weaving from the Diné perspective. Rug-weaving projects include traditional upright loom weaving techniques and design.

107 Moccasin Making (3) ±

Series of lectures on the origin, purposes, philosophy and historical development of moccasins. Includes projects in making male and female moccasins.

108 Navajo Silversmithing I (3) ±

Series of lectures on the origin and cultural development of silver jewelry. Basic skills development and techniques in making tools and designing, forming, cutting, piercing, and soldering.

109 Navajo Silversmithing II (3) ±

Develops individual skill in silversmithing: creative, design, intermediate processes, and lapidary techniques. Includes comparative study of Native American jewelry craftsmanship.

111 Foundation of Navajo Culture (3) §

An introduction to the basic values of Diné society, past and presents, including the clan system, the philosophy of duality, Diné oral narratives and symbolic interpretation. Navajo and English instruction.

150 Introduction to Navajo Herbology (3) ±

Examines concepts fundamental to the Navajo use of herbs in environmental and ceremonial contexts. Navajo and English instruction.

220 Navajo Oral History (3) ?

Examines Diné oral history and cosmology with an emphasis on cultural development using ceremonial practices and world creation narratives as a basis. May include a field trip to Dinétah and/or other historical sites. Prerequisites: NIS 111

221 Navajo History to Present (3) §

Examines Diné history beginning with anthropological theories about prehistoric migrations to and acculturation in the Southwest followed by the later historic European contact period and ending with current events. Includes an overview of key aboriginal land settlements, federal Indian laws, court decisions, and other Indian policies within the context of Diné tribal, intertribal, city, county, state, and federal government relations. Prerequisites: FST 131; ENG 101 or instructor's permission.

222 Contemporary Indian Affairs and Tribal Government (3) ±

An overview of federal policies and programs which deals with the Indian Nations of the United States since 1776. Examines the relationships between tribes, national, regional, and local governments and the rise of a new collective national Native American political identity. Prerequisites: FST 131, ENG 101, NIS 221 or instructor's permission.

225 Indians of the United States and North America (3) ?

A survey of the Indians of the U.S. and Canada, with emphasis on changing economic and political forces that influence various tribal groups. Discussion of origins, customs, language, arts, and habitats. Cross listed with ANT 225.

226 Navajo Tribal Government (3) ?

The development of Navajo tribal government, concentrating on its evolution since 1920s. Examines the legal and political basis of tribal government, the structure and functions of tribal powers and service, fiscal changes, and administrative growth. Includes political relations, developments and transitions relating to the state and federal government. Highlights major contributions of every tribal chairman.

261 Navajo Oral Tradition and Styles (3) ±

Examines the basic and the more complex philosophical thoughts discussed by traditional elders in Navajo society by listening to and analyzing various oral styles including storytelling, oratory, prayers, and lectures. English and Navajo instruction. Prerequisites: NIS 111 or instructor's permission.

290 Native American Symposium (3) ±

Selected topics in contemporary Native American affairs.

292 Native American Holistic Expression (3) ±

Examines the basic principles of Native American spiritual life, common philosophies and values, cycles of life and contemporary ritualistic practices throughout the North American continent.

293 Native American Music for Teachers (3) ±

Focuses on music and repertoire and teaching methods for use in the classroom. Discusses traditional tribal styles, instruments, and social/ceremonial context, with special emphasis on the Navajo and other Southwest tribes. Cross listed with EDU 293.

311 Introduction to Navajo Holistic Healing (3) ?

A general discussion of major Navajo ceremonies of both summer and winter seasons according to Navajo teachings. Will examine the development and organization of ceremonies with specific emphasis on their purpose, significance and procedures. Studies will include ceremonies from the Hózhóójí (Blessing Ways) and Naayéé'jí (Protection Ways). May include field experience to local traditional healing ceremonies. Prerequisites: NIS 111.

371 Navajo Philosophy (3) ?

An advance analysis of the interrelationship of male and female principles and the manifestation of dual forces. The course takes a well-integrated look at Diné philosophical thought on metaphysics, epitemology, aesthetics, ethics, religion and traditional social structure. Prerequisites: NIS 111.