Finding a college where you feel seen, supported, and connected to your culture can make all the difference. Eastern Oregon University Native American student support programs help students explore their identity while pursuing academic goals.
Whether you’re drawn to their Native American Studies minor, campus cultural events, or financial supports for Native students, EOU can be a place where you learn, grow, and contribute back to your community.
School Snapshot
Arizona State University offers a wide range of academic options rooted in Indigenous knowledge and leadership. These include:
- Website: www.eou.edu
- Type: Public University
- Location: La Grande, Oregon
- Native Enrollment: 1% of the student body
- Native Student Graduation Rate: 33%
Fun Fact
The Speel-Ya Native American Student Council has been hosting the EOU Indian Arts Festival & Powwow for decades, making it one of the longest-running cultural traditions on campus.
Academic Opportunities for Native Students at Eastern Oregon University
While EOU does not offer a Native-specific major, students can pursue a Native American Studies minor to deepen their understanding of Indigenous histories, activism, and contemporary issues. Notable elective courses include:
Ethnology Hunters/Gatherers
Native Peoples of Oregon
Gambling Policy
Native American Activism
Wild Plant Foraging
These classes give students the chance to connect cultural perspectives with academic inquiry, creating pathways for careers in education, policy, environmental work, and community leadership.
Explore the program: EOU Native American Studies
Cultural Supports for Native American Students at Eastern Oregon University
EOU’s Native American Program serves as a hub for cultural connection, student support, and event coordination. While the university does not have themed housing or an Elder-in-Residence program, the Native American Program provides a space to meet peers, seek resources, and participate in campus-wide cultural initiatives.
Contact: [email protected]
Learn more: EOU Native American Program
Interested in Eastern Oregon University?
Campus Life & Native Organizations
Student life at EOU offers opportunities for cultural involvement and community-building through:
Speel-Ya Native American Student Council – A student-led group hosting cultural, educational, and social events.
EOU Indian Arts Festival & Powwow – An annual celebration showcasing Native traditions, arts, and community.
Native American Heritage Month – A month-long series of events highlighting Indigenous contributions and perspectives.
Cultural Workshops – Hands-on learning experiences for all students, often led by Native community members.
Financial Supports for Native American Students at Eastern Oregon University
EOU participates in programs designed to make college more affordable for Native students:
Oregon Opportunity Grant – State-based need grant.
Out-of-State Tribal Residency Program – In-state tuition rates for qualifying Native students from out-of-state tribes.
Oregon Tribal Student Grant – Additional state grant funding for members of Oregon’s federally recognized tribes.
The First Citizen Award – Recognition and financial support for outstanding student leadership.
Tip: Combine these supports with tribal scholarships and national Native student scholarships to maximize funding. CollegeBound Journey’s Scholarship Search database contains 750+ opportunities specifically for Native students, making it easier to find awards that honor identity, academic goals, and community connection—all in one place.
Land Acknowledgement
EOU recognizes its location on the traditional homelands of Native peoples. Read the full land acknowledgement here: EOU Land Acknowledgement
Final Thoughts
Eastern Oregon University may be a small public university, but its commitment to supporting Native American students is visible in its cultural programming, student organizations, and financial aid opportunities. With the Native American Program as a campus hub, engaging events like the Indian Arts Festival & Powwow, and the chance to study Indigenous history and activism, EOU provides a welcoming environment where Native students can thrive academically and culturally.
For those seeking a college that values both personal achievement and community connection, Eastern Oregon University Native American student support resources make it a strong option to consider.
📍 Is Eastern Oregon University the Right Fit for You?
If you’re looking for:
✅A smaller public university with a supportive Native student program
✅ Opportunities to study Native American history, activism, and culture
✅ Cultural events like powwows and heritage month celebrations
✅ State and tribal financial aid options to lower costs
…then EOU might be a strong choice for your college journey.
Did we miss something?
Share your experience with EOU in the comments below to help future Native students learn more about this campus.
