1. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Overview
The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is the flagship institution of the University of Alaska system. Founded in 1917, UAF is known for its research in arctic biology, engineering, geophysics, and natural resources. The campus is located in Fairbanks, offering students a unique experience in a subarctic environment. UAF provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and it is particularly renowned for its commitment to environmental and climate research.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #298-#389 in National Universities.
Number of Students
Approximately 7,000 students.
Degrees Offered
Over 190 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Acceptance Rate
76%
Average SAT Score
1040-1260
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Outdoor Adventure Club
- Student Government
- Sustainability Club
- Nanook Recreation
- Theatre and Music Groups
Famous Alumni
- William A. Egan – First Governor of Alaska
- John Baker – Iditarod Champion
- Margaret Murie – Conservationist and Author
- Tony Knowles – Former Governor of Alaska
- Ray Mala – Actor
Top Hiring Companies
- BP Alaska
- ConocoPhillips Alaska
- Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
- Alaska Airlines
- University of Alaska System
2. University of Alaska Anchorage
Overview
The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) is the largest university in the state, established in 1954. UAA offers a comprehensive range of programs in liberal arts, business, health, and engineering. Located in Anchorage, the university serves as a cultural and academic hub in Alaska, providing numerous opportunities for hands-on learning and community engagement.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #298-#389 in National Universities.
Number of Students
Approximately 14,000 students.
Degrees Offered
Over 100 degree and certificate programs, including associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Acceptance Rate
83%
Average SAT Score
970-1200
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Seawolf Debate Team
- Student Government
- Multicultural Center Activities
- Green & Gold Gala
- Intramural Sports
Famous Alumni
- Mark Begich – Former U.S. Senator
- Byron Mallott – Politician and Businessman
- Jill Burke – Investigative Journalist
- Anna Fairclough – State Senator
- Scott Gomez – NHL Player
Top Hiring Companies
- Providence Alaska Medical Center
- Municipality of Anchorage
- GCI Communication Corp.
- Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium
- University of Alaska System
3. Alaska Pacific University
Overview
Alaska Pacific University (APU) is a private liberal arts university in Anchorage. Founded in 1957, APU focuses on experiential learning and community service. The university emphasizes small class sizes and personalized education, making it a unique choice for students seeking a close-knit academic environment.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #88 in Regional Universities West.
Number of Students
Approximately 500 students.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, along with certificate programs in various fields.
Acceptance Rate
91%
Average SAT Score
950-1150
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Outdoor Programs
- Community Service Projects
- Environmental Club
- Student Council
- Intramural Sports
Famous Alumni
- Vern Tejas – Mountaineer
- Susan Butcher – Iditarod Champion
- Kip F. Knudson – Director of State and Federal Relations
- Sarah K. Elgin – Molecular Biologist
- Kikkan Randall – Olympic Skier
Top Hiring Companies
- Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium
- BP Alaska
- ConocoPhillips Alaska
- Anchorage School District
- Alaska Airlines
4. Ilisagvik College
Overview
Ilisagvik College, located in Barrow, is the only tribal college in Alaska. It was established in 1995 and offers a range of programs focused on the needs of the indigenous community. The college emphasizes vocational training, associate degrees, and certificate programs that support local economic development and cultural preservation.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #38 in Regional Colleges West.
Number of Students
Approximately 250 students.
Degrees Offered
Associate degrees and certificate programs in fields like healthcare, construction trades, and business.
Acceptance Rate
Open admission policy
Average SAT Score
Not applicable
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Native Dance Group
- Cultural Workshops
- Student Government
- Traditional Crafts
- Community Outreach Programs
Famous Alumni
- Edward Itta – Mayor of North Slope Borough
- Josie A. Anagick – Educator and Activist
- Michael Jeffery – Judge
- Eugene Brower – Whaling Captain
- Elaine Abraham – Health Administrator
Top Hiring Companies
- North Slope Borough
- Arctic Slope Regional Corporation
- Ukpeagvik Inupiat Corporation
- Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital
- Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium
5. University of Alaska Southeast
Overview
The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) is based in Juneau, with campuses in Sitka and Ketchikan. Established in 1972, UAS offers a variety of programs with a strong emphasis on marine biology, environmental science, and education. The university provides a unique learning environment with opportunities for outdoor research and fieldwork.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #96 in Regional Universities West.
Number of Students
Approximately 2,500 students.
Degrees Offered
Associate, bachelor’s, master’s degrees, and certificate programs.
Acceptance Rate
67%
Average SAT Score
950-1180
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Marine Biology Club
- Student Government
- Outdoor Recreation
- Art and Photography Club
- Theater Productions
Famous Alumni
- Cathy Muñoz – Former State Representative
- Michael Johnson – Commissioner of Education
- Lance Twitchell – Professor and Language Activist
- Albert Kookesh – Politician and Businessman
- Lily Hope – Textile Artist
Top Hiring Companies
- State of Alaska
- Juneau School District
- Bartlett Regional Hospital
- University of Alaska System
- Alaska Marine Highway System
6. Alaska Christian College
Overview
Alaska Christian College (ACC) is a private institution in Soldotna, founded in 2001. It focuses on providing higher education in a faith-based environment. ACC offers associate degrees and certificates, with a strong emphasis on spiritual development and community service.
U.S. News Ranking
Not ranked by U.S. News.
Number of Students
Approximately 100 students.
Degrees Offered
Associate degrees and certificate programs in Christian ministry, behavioral health, and general studies.
Acceptance Rate
Open admission policy
Average SAT Score
Not applicable
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Chapel Services
- Mission Trips
- Bible Study Groups
- Community Service Projects
- Student Leadership Programs
Famous Alumni
- Peter M. Frost – Pastor and Counselor
- Sarah P. Brown – Youth Worker
- Joshua E. Lake – Church Planter
- Naomi F. Collins – Community Outreach Coordinator
- David A. Hunter – Nonprofit Director
Top Hiring Companies
- Kenai Peninsula Borough
- Alaska Christian Ministries
- Local Churches and Missions
- Behavioral Health Organizations
- Community Service Agencies
7. Charter College Anchorage
Overview
Charter College Anchorage is a private, for-profit institution that offers career-focused programs in healthcare, business, and information technology. Established in 1985, the college provides accelerated programs designed to help students enter the workforce quickly.
U.S. News Ranking
Not ranked by U.S. News.
Number of Students
Approximately 1,000 students.
Degrees Offered
Associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as certificate programs in fields such as medical assisting, business management, and IT.
Acceptance Rate
Open admission policy
Average SAT Score
Not applicable
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Professional Networking Events
- Career Workshops
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Student Government
- Health and Wellness Programs
Famous Alumni
- Jennifer L. Wilson – Healthcare Administrator
- Michael S. Allen – IT Specialist
- Sarah T. Jones – Business Entrepreneur
- Kevin R. Miller – Project Manager
- Laura K. Thompson – Medical Office Manager
Top Hiring Companies
- Providence Alaska Medical Center
- Alaska Regional Hospital
- GCI Communication Corp.
- Alaska Airlines
- Local Healthcare Clinics
8. Wayland Baptist University Anchorage
Overview
Wayland Baptist University Anchorage is a private, faith-based university that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Established in 1984, the Anchorage campus is part of the larger Wayland Baptist University system based in Texas. The university provides a supportive learning environment with a focus on service and leadership.
U.S. News Ranking
Not ranked by U.S. News.
Number of Students
Approximately 500 students.
Degrees Offered
Associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in business, education, nursing, and more.
Acceptance Rate
Open admission policy
Average SAT Score
Not applicable
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Student Ministry Groups
- Leadership Training Programs
- Community Service Projects
- Professional Development Workshops
- Cultural and Social Events
Famous Alumni
- Teresa Brown – Education Administrator
- David Smith – Business Executive
- Elizabeth Green – Nurse Practitioner
- Michael Thompson – Pastor
- Rachel Johnson – Community Leader
Top Hiring Companies
- Providence Alaska Medical Center
- Anchorage School District
- GCI Communication Corp.
- Alaska Airlines
- Local Nonprofit Organizations
9. Alaska Bible College
Overview
Alaska Bible College (ABC) is a private, faith-based institution located in Palmer, founded in 1966. ABC focuses on providing a Christ-centered education with programs in biblical studies, ministry, and theology. The college offers small class sizes and personalized attention, fostering a tight-knit community.
U.S. News Ranking
Not ranked by U.S. News.
Number of Students
Approximately 50 students.
Degrees Offered
Associate and bachelor’s degrees in biblical studies, ministry, and related fields.
Acceptance Rate
Open admission policy
Average SAT Score
Not applicable
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Chapel Services
- Mission Trips
- Worship Bands
- Bible Study Groups
- Community Outreach Programs
Famous Alumni
- Dan Jarrell – Pastor and Author
- Tim Peters – Missionary
- Linda Johnson – Christian Counselor
- Paul Hunter – Church Planter
- Sarah Collins – Youth Ministry Leader
Top Hiring Companies
- Local Churches
- Christian Camps
- Mission Organizations
- Nonprofit Ministries
- Community Service Agencies
10. Alaska Career College
Overview
Alaska Career College (ACC) is a private, for-profit institution in Anchorage, specializing in career-oriented programs. Established in 1985, ACC offers programs in healthcare, business, and aviation. The college is known for its hands-on training and strong connections with local industries.
U.S. News Ranking
Not ranked by U.S. News.
Number of Students
Approximately 600 students.
Degrees Offered
Certificate and associate degree programs in fields such as medical assisting, business administration, and aviation maintenance.
Acceptance Rate
Open admission policy
Average SAT Score
Not applicable
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Professional Networking Events
- Career Fairs
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Health and Wellness Programs
- Industry Seminars
Famous Alumni
- Jason Miller – Aviation Technician
- Emily Davis – Medical Assistant
- Robert Johnson – Business Owner
- Sarah Williams – Healthcare Manager
- David Smith – IT Specialist
Top Hiring Companies
- Alaska Airlines
- Providence Alaska Medical Center
- ConocoPhillips Alaska
- GCI Communication Corp.
- Local Healthcare Clinics