
Red Lake Nation College
With our main campus on Red Lake and a newly constructed college in Minneapolis, Red Lake Nation College is a great place to start your higher education!
Quality Native Education At An Affordable Price
Small, Personable Campus
Education in Ojibwe Language and Culture.
At RLNC, we use, follow, encourage, and support the 7 Ojibwe Values of:
Zaagi’idiwin
Love
Zoongide’iwin
Courage
Debwewin
Truth
Dabasendizowin
Humility
Gwayakwaadiziwin
Honesty
Manaaji’idiwin
Respect
Nibwaakaawin
Wisdom
Red Lake Nation College
Start Your Native Higher Education With Us!
Red Lake Nation College is a two-year tribal college located on the beautiful shores of Red Lake in Northern Minnesota and a new site in downtown Minneapolis. Our state-of-the-art facilities combine Ojibwe language and culture, with globally relevant courses, offering a unique combination of Native innovation and traditional experiences that not only preserves Native traditions but prepares students of all backgrounds for the twenty-first-century job market.
Our two-year program offers a an A.A. degree in Liberal Education and/or an A.A.S. degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences. We are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. We also have articulation agreements with colleges and universities across Minnesota for seamless transfer after earning your two-year degree with us.

Amidst Natural Wonders
Where Knowledge Blossoms

Nestled in the heart of Northern Minnesota, we embrace our natural surroundings to create a learning environment that fosters a deep connection with nature. The college’s main campus is on the shores of Red Lake, the largest lake in Minnesota, and provides students with an experience that goes beyond traditional academic settings. The incorporation of Ojibwe language and culture into the curriculum is a testament to our commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of our native community.
Expanding Horizons
Discover our Dual Site Experience

In a deliberate move to expand our ability to serve the Red Lake Nation and Minnesota tribal members, we have a new site in downtown Minneapolis. This represents a groundbreaking approach, making the Minneapolis site the first tribal college in the United States to serve a major metropolitan city. The new facility boasts 18,572 finished square feet and stands as a high-tech hub for learning, community engagement, and cultural exchange. Students are welcome to attend courses at the main campus or Minneapolis at any time.
Empowering Paths
Native Curriculum Offerings

The curriculum we offer is carefully crafted to be both culturally relevant and globally applicable. Students engage in courses that draw from the rich history of Ojibwe language, culture, and traditions but also provide them with the skills and knowledge demanded by today’s rapidly evolving world. This unique blend of Native innovation and tradition positions our college graduates as well-rounded individuals ready to continue with four-year, master’s, and doctorate degrees.

Our college is committed to academic excellence which is highlighted by our accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the US Department of Education. This accreditation reflects us meeting rigorous academic standards, ensuring that students receive a quality education that isn’t just acknowledged in Minnesota, but globally.
Our Mission
To provide excellent higher education grounded in Ojibwe language and culture of Red Lake Nation.
Red Lake Nation College stands at the forefront of tribal education, offering a holistic and forward-thinking approach to learning. With a commitment to preserving Native culture, a newly constructed state-of-the-art site, and accreditation that attests to its academic rigor, RLNC is poised to shape the future of its students and contribute to the broader landscape of higher education for the tribal members of Minnesota and beyond.

From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was welcomed by a vibrant community of dedicated educators, supportive staff, and diverse peers. The faculty at Red Lake Nation College demonstrated a genuine passion for their subjects and a commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity among students. The engaging and challenging coursework not only expanded my knowledge but also encouraged critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will undoubtedly serve me well in my future endeavors.
I am delighted to express my sincere gratitude for the transformative experience I’ve had at Red Lake Nation College. The exceptional faculty, cutting-edge curriculum, and vibrant campus community have not only enriched my academic journey but also fostered personal growth. RLNC has provided me with invaluable opportunities to engage in hands-on research, collaborate with passionate peers, and develop critical thinking skills that will undoubtedly shape my future. I am proud to be a part of this institution, and I am confident that the knowledge and experiences gained here will propel me towards success.
I would HIGHLY recommend this school to any Natives looking to start somewhere! I’ve seen this school build my family’s confidence and work ethic.
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