Arizona: Arizona State University is launching its popular Tribal Financial Manager Certificate  program in a distance learning format.  Now tribal professionals unable to travel to ASU can access this vital course.

People can take the course as a self-paced program or listen to CDs. They may also attend ASU for an intensive three-day session.

“If you’re driving a long distance, you can listen to the audio portion. We tried to provide as many options as possible,” said Pat Mariella, American Indian Policy Institute director.

The Tribal Financial Manager Certificate program has been a success since it began. Tribal financial managers from across the country learn how to manage funds in a tribal setting.

“We’ve gotten tremendous feedback because it’s not taught anywhere else,” said Corrine Wilson who helped shape the program.

Managing finances for tribal governments is a specialized and complicated skill. Tribal members are taking over programs once run by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the federal government. Managing funds requires an understanding of the rules, regulations and laws that govern tribal monies.

"Through the in-classroom program, we have already trained close to 100 people from tribes throughout the United States. Tribes vote with their feet and we have a waiting list,” Mariella said.

Costs for the program range from $1,500- $1,950.