Most
Affordable Colleges in Alaska in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Alaska combines core business skills with regional perspectives on industries such as tourism, energy, and fisheries. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, and entrepreneurship. Students may attend the University of Alaska Anchorage, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, or Alaska Pacific University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as managers, marketing specialists, financial analysts, human resources coordinators, operations supervisors, or small-business owners across Alaska's diverse industries and local communities.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Alaska combines foundational coursework with the state's communities and environments. Students typically study developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and counseling theories. Popular options include the University of Alaska Anchorage, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and the University of Alaska Southeast, offering psychology programs. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or community support worker; advanced clinical careers usually require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Alaska combines programming fundamentals with opportunities to explore technology needs across remote communities and industries. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and computer networks. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or IT support professionals. Popular in-state options include the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the University of Alaska Anchorage, both offering computer science study pathways for undergraduate students.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Alaska combines classroom learning with practical training for work across diverse communities. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, community mental health counselors, substance use counselors, or college student advisors, depending on degree and state licensure requirements. Popular options include the University of Alaska Anchorage, University of Alaska Fairbanks, and Alaska Pacific University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Alaska combines classroom learning with clinical experience in urban and rural communities. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, and community health. Programs emphasize patient care, ethics, and clinical training. Alaska students can explore nursing programs at University of Alaska Anchorage, University of Alaska Fairbanks, and University of Alaska Southeast. Graduates pursue registered nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, public health, schools, or long-term care after meeting licensure requirements.

Best Colleges in Alaska Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 19,776.0, compared with 23,444.8 at schools in the top 10%, so the top-ranked group has a higher median cost.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the colleges, compared with 79.5% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 79.5%. Colleges receive an average of 469.0 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 567.4 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 156.0 men and 313.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,235.0 on the SAT and 22.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,253.71. Average enrollment is 39.0 men and 58.0 women.
• The average graduation rate is 40.43%, compared with 50.6% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 42.0% for men and 34.0% for women.
• Seven institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, four offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• There are seven coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid together, since lower overall median cost does not necessarily mean the same aid profile as schools in the top 10%. Also consider acceptance rates, applicant competition, test scores, graduation outcomes, enrollment, degree offerings, and whether the school's coeducational setting fits your preferences.

How much does studying at a college in Alaska cost?

For a student in Alaska, the reported average total cost of studying is $17,060.29, a useful yearly planning estimate while pursuing a degree. Average tuition and fees are $12,137.57, while housing, meals, and course materials also shape what you will spend.

At popular options such as University of Alaska Anchorage, University of Alaska Fairbanks, and University of Alaska Southeast, your bill will depend on program, residency, housing choice, and whether you study on campus. Before enrolling, ask each campus for a current cost-of-attendance estimate for your program and living arrangement. Alaska resident rates, scholarships, grants, commuting, and shared housing can change out-of-pocket costs, so use the average as a starting point, not a guaranteed bill. Comparing campus and off-campus options can make planning feel manageable and help you choose a path that fits your goals.

• Tuition and fees average $12,137.57.
• Room and board average $11,508.75.
• Books and supplies average $892.

How long does it take to finish college in Alaska?

In Alaska, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree takes two; part-time attendance, work, family responsibilities, or course availability can extend those timelines. At the University of Alaska Anchorage, University of Alaska Fairbanks, or Alaska Pacific University, your schedule depends on your program and transferred credits.

Alaska's average graduation rate is 40.43%; the average among the top 10% of schools is 50.6%. The average rate is 45.57% for men and 36.86% for women. These rates indicate that degree completion varies, so choosing support services and a manageable course load can help you stay on track.

• Ask about transfer, dual-enrollment, AP/IB, or prior-learning credits before enrolling; accepted credits may reduce required coursework.
• Take summer classes or heavier loads when practical, and map prerequisites with an adviser to avoid delays.
• Some programs offer accelerated or online courses, which can add flexibility while you work toward graduation.

Salary

College graduates in Alaska earn a median alumni salary of about $46,643. For graduates of schools in the top 10% of the comparison, the median is about $56,574. Your actual earnings can vary with your field, experience, and location.

Alaska students can explore programs at the University of Alaska Anchorage, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and the University of Alaska Southeast. Comparing programs and career paths can help you find a degree that fits your goals and supports a rewarding future in the state.

People also ask

What college in Alaska has the lowest tuition?

Ilisagvik College in Utqiaġvik is generally the lowest-tuition option among Alaska's colleges, particularly for Alaska residents. It is a public tribal college, and its costs may differ by residency, program, and fees. Check the college's current tuition schedule before applying, since published prices can change and your total cost may include more than tuition.

What college in Alaska has the lowest GPA requirement?

Ilisagvik College is a strong place to start: it has an open-admission approach, so admission is not based on meeting a high minimum GPA in the way it may be at more selective colleges. Requirements can vary by program, though, and some courses or credentials may have additional entry rules. Contact admissions to confirm what applies to you.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Alaska Ranking in 2026-2027

At the University of Alaska Fairbanks, you can study at a public research university in Interior Alaska, with programs spanning many fields. Its 7,358 enrolled students and 38% graduation rate offer useful context for planning. The reported total study cost is $23,881, while median alumni salary is $51,038. Acceptance-rate data is unavailable. For Alaska residents, Fairbanks provides an in-state option outside the state's largest city and a setting for learning about northern environments and communities while remaining in Alaska.

University of Alaska Southeast is a public university based in Juneau, with a regional presence that can suit students seeking an education in Southeast Alaska. It enrolls 1,797 students, reports a 28% graduation rate and a 63% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $23,154, and median alumni salary is $46,643. For an Alaska-based applicant, its location offers a chance to study near the state capital and coastal communities, while staying within the University of Alaska system close to home.

Ilisagvik College, located in Utqiaġvik, is a tribal college serving Alaska's North Slope and offers students a distinctly local setting for higher education. Its 256 enrolled students and 46% graduation rate describe a small institution; acceptance-rate and median-alumni-salary figures are unavailable. The reported total study cost is $4,920, the lowest among these five schools. For Alaskans, studying here can mean pursuing a degree in the Arctic region while remaining connected to local communities, culture and the needs of northern life.

The University of Alaska Anchorage is a public university in Alaska's largest city, offering an urban setting and a wide range of study options for students who want to remain in the state. It enrolls 10,574 students, with a 30% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. The total study cost is $19,776, and median alumni salary is $60,264, the highest salary figure in this group. Anchorage location may appeal to students seeking city life alongside access to Alaska's outdoor landscapes.

Alaska Pacific University is a small private university in Anchorage, potentially appealing to students who prefer a close-knit campus in Alaska's largest city. It enrolls 593 students and reports a 47% graduation rate and 96% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $20,350, while median alumni salary is $39,315. For prospective Alaska students, the school offers a private-college alternative to the state's public universities, with an urban base that keeps local internships, services and outdoor recreation within reach for students.