Best Colleges in Alaska: A thousand-mile journey to Alaska’s vast state and its top schools and universities can be started with just one click. The most northern state in the US is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. As students advance in their academic careers, they can take in Alaska’s wonder and beauty by attending the best colleges in Alaska.
Students have a choice of fourteen colleges, universities, other postsecondary educational institutions and numerous scholarships in Alaska. We hope to offer some useful information to individuals considering living in and exploring Alaska while in college as they choose the best college for them.
Although Alaska universities might not be the first choice when considering where to attend college, they are a very practical alternative because to cheaper tuition costs than in most other states. Despite having few postsecondary institutions, Alaska has taken steps to promote intellectual advancement and has kept tuition rates low. By doing this, Alaska has increased the number of wonderful things that already entice people to the state, such as affordable tuition. It is hoped that this would attract students who are eager to experience everything that Alaska has to offer to their universities.
Alaska Colleges Quick Facts
- 2017 fall enrollment: 26,905
- Over 5,630 degrees were granted in Alaska in 2021.
- In 2021 $5,936 was the median in-state public tuition.
- The average private tuition in 2016 was $14,450.
- Largest Institution: University of Alaska Anchorage, largest institution
Best Colleges in Alaska
1. University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Score: 100
- Earnings: $43,728 after graduating
- Cost on average: $10,510
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is found to be at the top of the list of Alaska’s best universities. U.S. News and World Reports recognized it as the state’s lone national institution, and Times Higher Education ranked it one of the best 100 small universities in the nation for 2022.
UAF provides undergraduate and graduate programs of study, with majors in accounting, physics, oceanography, indigenous studies, atmospheric sciences, and more. Without having to change colleges, students can complete their post-graduate work and continue on to their graduate work. It’s worthwhile to ask about tuition discounts because some programs are eligible for them.
The four-year institution is well rated. With an A for diversity and a B+ for academics, it might be the best option for individuals looking to pursue further education. It is possible for diverse students from throughout the nation to reside on campus while pursuing their degrees thanks to housing and eating opportunities.
2. Alaska Career College
- Score: 99.6
- Salary: $31,891 after graduation
- Tuition: $15,191
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Rate of Graduation: 73%
Alaska Career College, one of the best colleges in Alaska, provides diploma and certificate programs in anything from therapeutic massage to aircraft dispatching. One of its most well-liked programs is still its program for medical assistants. Additionally, ACC grants associate degrees in Phlebotomy Technician, Insurance Coding and Billing, Business: Computer Technology, Business: Human Resources, and Accounting Technology.
Smaller class sizes enable instructors to provide each student more individualized attention, which benefits the students. Since March of 1985, the college has been accredited by the Certifying Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), which means that all of its academic programs adhere to the requirements set out by the accrediting body. Students will discover that certification is crucial when moving their credits from one college to another.
In addition to helping students of all ages, it also attends to the requirements of veterans and their dependents as well as active-duty personnel of the US military. The college staff prioritizes student needs in order to provide them with a flexible learning environment and help them find housing in Anchorage. This is done in an effort to position them for academic success.
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3 University of Alaska Southeast
- Score: 99.6
- Salary: $40,727 after graduation
- Tuition: $10,292
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 36%
Students have the option to complete both their undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS). Programs of study at this prestigious college include, among others, Biology and Marine Biology, Education, Healthcare, Marine Transportation, Mining, and Outdoor Studies. There are three campuses for UAS, one each in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka, to make it simpler and more convenient for students to pursue their chosen majors.
Student life at UAS is one of the factors that makes the university one of the greatest institutions in Alaska by giving students the chance to further explore their surroundings. The establishment understands how to connect with individuals on a personal level by providing paddleboards, tents, and mountain bike rentals as well as access to dozens of entertaining clubs like Gaming Club, Film Club, and Orchestra. Those that start their professions and journeys from the University of Alaska Southeast are in for enriching experiences.
The four-year university has a B grade. It received a B+ in academics and an A- in diversity. The admittance rate at UAS is 64%, and tuition is just under $40,000. There are scholarships available for students who desire to cover the cost of their higher education. By visiting the college’s website, those who are interested can learn more about them.
4. University of Alaska Anchorage
- Score: 99.6
- Salary: $47,891 after graduation
- Net Price on Average: $11,782
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
The University of Alaska Anchorage, the second-largest post-secondary institution in Alaska, provides more than 100 certification and degree programs. Students have a wide range of major options, including accounting, art, computer science, and medical laboratory science. The institution is separated into numerous academic colleges with concentrations in fields like the arts and sciences, engineering, and health.
Potential students will find it at the top of the list of the best universities in Alaska for a reason—it is generous with the scholarships it grants. The average University of Arizona student is a woman who is older than 28. People in their 20s and 30s who want to change careers or pursue graduate studies at another university adore what UAA has to offer them.
Due to the wide range of study options available at U of A, it scored an A for diversity. Review the application process and apply for some of the $34 million in total scholarships if you’re more interested in learning the skills and information necessary to work in the field of your choice than in going out and having a good time.
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5. Alaska Pacific University
- Score: 99.4
- Salary: $47,267 after graduation.
- Net Price on Average: $20,651
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 36%
Alaska Pacific University is a popular choice for students who want a different kind of higher education (APU). The school offers degrees and certifications in a broad range of career disciplines in order to meet the demands of undergraduates and graduates. Marine and environmental sciences, outdoor studies, and outdoor and environmental education are some of the most fascinating alternatives. Many APU students choose to major in fields related to the natural world in order to benefit from everything that the lovely state has to offer. Those who decide to major in one of the aforementioned disciplines of study will have a close-up and personal understanding of nature through their coursework.
Alaska’s top universities receive high marks for student happiness. Don’t forget to take into account APU’s numerous recreational facilities, which include a pool, a gym, a climbing wall, and even bicycle routes. Housing choices that suit the needs and budget of students who want to live on campus are available. Thanks to the dining hall and weekly Farmer’s Market, APU students can also eat healthy while they are in class.
Alaska Pacific University receives a B overall, making it one of the finest institutions in the state for all the extras it provides to its students. Smaller in size, but with great potential!
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Studying in Alaska
Some universities might provide students additional choices in terms of the classes they select and the general education requirements. Schools in Alaska can provide students who want to learn in ways other than those they were exposed to in high school with the opportunity. Additionally, there are five colleges in Alaska from which students can select, each of which offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in the relevant subjects.
For instance, the University of Alaska Fairbanks provides courses in wildlife biology and wilderness leadership, while the University of Alaska Anchorage’s Outdoor Pursuits department instructs students on how to properly use equipment for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
There are additional choices available for students who want to attend school in Alaska but are not interested in living on campus or sharing housing. For those who choose this method of learning, the university system offers a wide variety of online courses. Due to the availability of online learning while still pursuing a higher degree, students are no longer required to live far from their families throughout their time in college.
When students are not in class or studying for examinations, Alaska offers a wealth of chances for them to engage in extracurricular activities. Each student can get active on campus through the numerous sports teams, clubs, and organizations that Alaska’s institutions provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What university is the top one in Alaska?
University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Is living in Alaska affordable?
In comparison to the national average, Alaska has a 28% higher cost of living. While utilities are 53% more expensive than the national average, housing is 28% more expensive. Food prices are roughly 16% more than the rest of the country, and clothing costs are also 16% higher when it comes to basic necessities like food and clothing.
Is it difficult to obtain work in Alaska?
Alaska has enough qualified individuals to fill the majority of occupations. A Word of Caution: Be wary of books or advertisements that promise "huge money jobs" in Alaska. Many only provide company names and ask you to look for employment on your own.
In Alaska, is education free?
All students are welcome to attend traditional public schools, which are run by school districts and supported by the local, state, and federal governments.
Conclusion
Alaska’s location makes it possible for students to participate in outdoor activities with ease, something that is not as easy to do in other states. This is perhaps the best thing about going to college there. Students may not be able to participate in a wide variety of activities anyplace else, but Alaska’s diversified geography makes it possible!
Living in Alaska is probably not the greatest choice for a student who has family in another city or state that they would like to visit frequently. Alaska, on the other hand, can be the ideal spot to attend school if one is searching for a fresh start and is able to spend less time visiting family during the holidays.
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