What You'll Learn
Gain the confidence and skills needed to collaborate with tribal leadership. This three-quarter professional certificate is designed for current and aspiring Tribal Liaisons and other positions that interact directly with Washington State tribes.
You will learn:
- Treaties, tribal histories, sovereignty and co-management
- Roles and responsibilities in government-to-government relations
- Culturally competent practices for sustainable relationships
- Case studies, current issues and legal precedents
- Tribal enterprises, agencies and economic development
Certificate Coursework
This certificate consists of both in-person and online classes and a day-long, in-person excursion to a NW Washington tribe each quarter.
Certificate Prerequisite
Before taking the first course in this certificate, students must take a one-day course: Government to Government Training
This course is sponsored by the Governor's Office of Indian Affairs (GOIA). Students will need to register through the Department of Enterprise Services.
Context of Tribal Relations in Washington State: Culture, Sovereignty, and Resilience
Fall Quarter
In this course, you will explore the unique histories, cultures, and governance of Pacific Northwest tribes. You will learn about the pre-contact and historic tribal cultures and art traditions, as well as inherent sovereignty and its role in tribal relations. Additionally, the course covers differing approaches to land occupation, natural and social resources, the development of tribal-federal relations during the treaty-making, and how treaties and tribal histories apply to current issues. With this fundamental knowledge of tribal relations, you will be better equipped to successfully interact with tribal governments in Washington state.
Schedule
Fall Quarter 2025
- October 1, Wednesday (In-Person)
- October 15, Wednesday (Remote)
- October 28, Tuesday (Tribal Site Visit)
- November 12, Wednesday (Remote)
- November 26, Wednesday (Remote)
History and Practice of Government-to-Government Relations: State, Tribal, Federal
Winter Quarter
This course delves into the complex relationships between tribal, state, and federal governments. You will explore the current processes used to establish and sustain intergovernmental agreements, as well as the legal implications of such agreements. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and interactive discussions, you will gain an understanding of the history and current practices of government-to-government relations.
Schedule
Winter Quarter 2026
- January 7, Wednesday (In-Person)
- January 21, Wednesday (Remote)
- February 4, Wednesday (Tribal Site Visit)
- February 18, Wednesday (Remote)
- March 4, Wednesday (Remote)
Case Studies: Policies in Co-Management and Trends in State-Tribal-Federal Relationships
Spring Quarter
This course focuses on the study of successful state-tribal relationships. You will learn about the legal and historical basis of these relationships and gain insight on factors that support positive interactions. You will look at current trends in state-tribal relationships, with co-management highlighted as the signature policy of Washington state-tribal relations. You will also delve into issues affecting different state government agencies and discuss best practices and solutions.
Schedule
Spring Quarter 2026
- April 1, Wednesday (In-Person)
- April 15, Wednesday (Remote)
- April 29, Wednesday (Tribal Site Visit)
- May 13, Wednesday (Remote)
- May 27, Wednesday (In-Person)