National Indian Education Association and University of Phoenix announce Tribal Strategic Alliance Agreement to make college more affordable for tribal communities

The National Indian Education Association (NIEA), the only national nonprofit exclusive to Native education issues, has announced a Tribal Strategic Alliance Agreement with University of Phoenix (UOPX). The agreement provides members of Native American, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian communities an opportunity to pursue a certificate or degree program through online or ground campuses at the University for $5,250 per year if enrolled with University of Phoenix. Benefits apply to credit-bearing single courses, certificates, associates, bachelors, masters and doctoral programs in the College of Education, College of Health Professions, College of Nursing and counseling programs from the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

The agreement supports the commitment of NIEA and UOPX to provide tribal students opportunities to earn a degree online, so they don’t have to leave their cultural surroundings, helping educate the members who want to live in the community and continue to share the customs and traditions of their ancestors. Students who live on tribal lands, remote villages or the Hawaiian Islands―where campus accessibility and educational resources can be scarce―often do not return after leaving to pursue an education. This tuition assistance program allows them to stay home and continue supporting their community and culture.

“University of Phoenix is dedicated to collaborating with tribal communities, enterprises and associations to provide educational opportunities,” said Patrick Horning, University of Phoenix national tribal strategic alliance executive. “The University is honored to work with NIEA, continuing our commitment to the academic success of tribal students and communities.”

In addition, Papa Ola Lokahi and the Native Hawaiian Health Board―a scholarship provider for Hawaiians seeking a degree or certificate in healthcare and mental health fields―have also joined the efforts of University of Phoenix and NIEA. Their involvement will help to provide affordable education opportunities to significantly more Native Hawaiians by leveraging the savings provided through the alliance.

To learn more about their Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program, visit www.papaolalokahi.org. For information on how to apply for the program in Hawaii, contact the Papa Ola Lokahi Scholarship office at 808-597-6550.

Students affiliated with any Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian, community, enterprise, healthcare facility, or school who do not qualify for Papa Ola Lokahi funding, should contact a University of Phoenix tribal relations representative at 800-486-2145 to learn more.

About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is continually innovating to help working adults enhance their careers in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses and interactive learning help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. We serve a diverse student population, offering degree programs at select locations across the U.S. as well as online. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.