Abstract This study explores successful experiences of Indigenous males who earned a master’s or professional degree from non-native institutions. Research on this population in relation to persistence and success is limited. The literature is guided primarily on Indigenous undergraduate programs and the barriers Indigenous students face in higher education. However, the literature is limited on the Indigenous graduate student experience. To provide insight into the perspectives and experiences of Indigenous males, Charmaz’ constructivist grounded theory approach and the Indigenous methodology of Story were used. Through in-depth interviews of 11 Indigenous males from across the United States, the graduate school experience of the males was analyzed. The major themes included Tribal Nation Building, Reliance on Support Networks, Warrior Mentality, and Reclaiming of Indigenous Masculinities. Recommendations for future study are to explore Indigenous fatherhood, gay Indigenous men, Indigenous men at different levels of higher education programs, establishment of graduate support programs, and reclaiming Indigenous masculinities.

Keywords:  Indigenous males, Indigenous masculinities, Indigenous graduate student success, Tribal Nation Building, Support Networks, Native American males, American Indian male