“Aboriginal people have both the right and the responsibility to educate their people” – it was this vision that inspired the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council to establish Yellowquill College in 1984. The Council understood that a better future was possible through a First Nation-owned and operated post-secondary institution that provided an alternative for First Nation adults wanting to pursue their education goals.  Their vision was to create a school respectful of First Nation cultures and founded on traditional First Nation values (the seven teachings); a place where students could pursue a quality education in a welcoming and supportive environment.  YQUC continues with that philosophy as they expand.  YQUC is a fast-growing institute and focuses on training First Nation people or others who may wish to work with First Nation peoples.  YQUC proudly fills a gap in the current educational system by focusing on the real needs of First Nation people.

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Yellowquill University College celebrated its 40th Anniversary on October 1, 2024, and, as it continues to flourish, has added two University degree programs: Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Relational Studies (post-diploma) Degree (a First Nation version of a social work program).

Yellowquill University College recently became a Post-Secondary Institution with full recognition by the Department of Advanced Education, Province of Manitoba under the “Yellowquill University Act”.