Salish Kootenai College

Salish Kootenai College (SKC) stands as a beacon of education and cultural preservation, uniquely chartered in 1977 under the sovereign governmental authority of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. As a private tribal land-grant community college, SKC offers a distinctive academic environment that blends modern educational excellence with a deep respect for Indigenous heritage. Serving approximately 850 students, SKC fosters a close-knit community focused on individual growth, preparing graduates for success in a rapidly evolving world while honoring traditional values.

SKC's journey to self-governance is a testament to its foundational strength and commitment to independence. Initially a branch of Flathead Valley Community College, it formally disassociated in 1981, marking a pivotal moment in its development as a completely self-governing institution. This independence was further solidified in 1994 when it was designated a land-grant college, placing it among institutions committed to research, education, and public service, particularly benefiting its surrounding community.

Innovation is deeply woven into the fabric of SKC's identity and academic strengths. In a remarkable achievement, students and faculty designed BisonSat, a satellite successfully deployed into low Earth orbit in 2015. This groundbreaking project made SKC the first tribal college to launch an operational CubeSat, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to STEM education and hands-on learning. BisonSat's primary mission to transmit image data of Earth with a targeted ground sample distance of 100 meters exemplifies the college's dedication to practical application and scientific advancement, offering students unparalleled opportunities in cutting-edge research and technology.