Indigenous Healing Perspectives Certificate
Elevate Your Care with Indigenous-informed Perspectives
Who this certificate is for
The Indigenous Healing Perspectives Certificate is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their service to Indigenous communities, regardless of their role or level of experience. If your work involves supporting the health, well-being, or success of Indigenous Peoples or communities, this program can help you deepen your understanding and strengthen your support for others in your work.
Healthcare Providers
Nurses, physicians, behavioral health professionals, and other direct patient care providers who want to build stronger relationships, improve communication, and provide more culturally informed care.
Public Health Professionals
Those working in population health, outreach, prevention, and education who are seeking a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives on health, wellness, and community.
Clinic and Program Staff
Administrative staff, care coordinators, case managers, and program leaders, who play a critical role in shaping patient experiences and creating inclusive, supportive environments.
Community-Based Workers
Professionals working in tribal health organizations, nonprofits, and community programs who want to better support the well-being of Indigenous communities through culturally grounded approaches.
Program Structure
The Indigenous Healing Perspectives Certificate includes four courses completed over approximately nine months. Grounded in real-world practice, the curriculum offers tools and perspectives you can bring into your day-to-day practice to strengthen relationships, communication, and care.
Participants should expect:
- About 3 – 5 hours per week in class
- Additional time for readings, assignments, and applied coursework outside of class
- A structured, fully online experience designed for working professionals
No prior degree or specific credential is required, just a commitment to learning and applying new perspectives in your work.
What Participants Are Saying
This course did more than provide information—it offered a shift in perspective on health, leadership, and community.
Élodie Goodman, Dean of Community Health & Education Pathways, Spokane Falls Community College
I’ve found it easier to build trust, show respect, and connect more meaningfully with my patients.
Casey Kernan, DO, Family Medicine Physician at Suquamish Healing House
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to enroll in the certificate program?
This program is open to adult (over the age of 18) healthcare professionals and other workers/employees working in any health and allied health field/profession in the U.S. and/or adults who are students at any university, college, tribal college, community college, or other institutions of higher education, who are enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, or professional health and allied health schools, disciplines, and pathways toward healthcare disciplines.
Other adults interested in this program who do not qualify under the first two criteria will need to seek approval from the program’s administration by submitting a written communication explaining their goal and purpose for applying. Please contact our staff for additional information.
Are financial aid or scholarships available?
No, this is a non-credit certificate program, so traditional financial aid and scholarships are not available. The program is offered for a registration fee rather than WSU tuition.
Are there discounts available for members of federally recognized tribes or organizations?
Yes, discounts are available for members of federally recognized tribes, organizations that provide services to federally recognized tribes, or any organization (including health care providers and groups) interested in enrolling three or more employees in the entire certificate program. Sorry, no single-course discounts at this time. For more information, contact Jerry Crowshoe, MA, at gerald.crowshoe@wsu.edu or 509-368-6844.
Can I use VA Benefits to pay for the program?
No. This program is non-credit and does not lead to a degree, so it does not qualify for VA Benefits.
Is the registration fee tax-deductible like college tuition?
No, the registration fee does not qualify for a tuition deduction. However, it may be eligible as a business education deduction if you have a business. A tax accountant may advise you regarding the business deduction.
Will I receive a Student ID Card to use for student discounts?
No, Student ID Cards are not provided to certificate program participants.