Overview
The University of Alaska system comprises the many public universities and community colleges spread across this huge state. The University of Alaska Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Southeast colleges are separately accredited institutions and the main hubs for the state university system. Between the member institutions, the UA system offers over 500 degrees and certificates, including many online programs.
Student Appeal
University of Alaska offers career-oriented distance learning programs in fields with strong job outlooks. Degrees and certificates are available in accounting, medical billing and coding, dental assisting, and information technology. Along with the career-oriented programs, UA also offers a number of graduate degrees for individuals looking to advance in their field.
Accreditation
The University of Alaska schools have accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
School Facts & Figures
- Accreditation: Regional, NWCCU
- Size: Large (10,000+)
- Type: Public not-for-profit
- Religious Affiliation: N/A
- Academic Affiliation: Comprised of 3 major UA universities.
- Career Services: Yes
- Course Schedule: Semester, 14-15 weeks
- Credit Options: Transfer, AP, Dual, Military
- Scholarships Offered: Yes
- Loans Offered: Pell, FSEOG, Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, Work-study, Perkins, PLUS
- AAS in Early Childhood EducationAAS in Early Childhood Education
The associate's degree includes the courses of the ECE certificate, along with general education requirements in social science, natural science, and the humanities. Students also complete field work.
- BA in Rural Social WorkBA in Rural Social Work
With concentrations in:
- Community Business & Economic Development
- Tribal and Local Government Administration
- Rural Health and Human Services Management
- Community Research and Indigenous Knowledge
- Land Resources and Environmental Management
Students in this program study the particular economic issues facing rural communities, and the hands-on skills for helping people in rural settings. The program is geared towards mature students and active community leaders.
- Certificate in Early Childhood EducationCertificate in Early Childhood Education
This 33 credit certificate provides a solid foundation in the principles of early childhood education. Courses cover child development, learning environments, curriculum development, social development, and more.
- Graduate Certificate in Early Childhood EducationGraduate Certificate in Early Childhood Education
*Requires a bachelor's degree.
This graduate program provides an introduction to early childhood principles, for individuals who could use this knowledge in their current field. Curriculum development, student teaching, and language development are some of the topics covered.
- Master of Education in Early Childhood EducationMaster of Education in Early Childhood Education
*Requires a bachelor's degree.
The master of education in early childhood education is aimed at current teachers, administrators, or others that want an in-depth study of the development of young children and the theories for excellent early childhood ed. It is not intended as teacher preparation.
- Master of Social WorkMaster of Social Work
*Requires a bachelor's degree
The online MSW program covers the values, skills, and theories for providing public assistance as a social worker. Students have the opportunity to tailor their degree through the selection of electives.