Top Nursing School in Alaska for 2025
University of Alaska Anchorage: Leading Nursing Program
As the largest university in Alaska, located in Anchorage, UAA provides more than just nursing education. Students can immerse themselves in diverse wildlife, trails, parks, and nearby glaciers, enriching their educational experience beyond the classroom. With a student body of over 11,000, opportunities abound in the arts, music, and the chance to witness the stunning Northern Lights from August to April.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2025–2026 academic year, tuition at UAA is as follows:
- Alaska Residents: $234 per credit hour for lower-division courses and $290 per credit hour for upper-division courses.
- Non-Residents: $800 per credit hour for lower-division courses and $890 per credit hour for upper-division courses.
UAA offers various discounts and initiatives, such as the "Live and Learn in Alaska" program, which provides non-resident students living on campus with in-state tuition rates .
NCLEX Pass Rates
UAA boasts commendable NCLEX pass rates. In 2024, the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program achieved a 93.75% pass rate, while the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program had an 89.19% pass rate.
Nursing Programs Offered
UAA provides a range of nursing programs tailored for aspiring nurses:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): This program is being phased out, with the last cohort starting in Fall 2023.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Primarily offered in Anchorage, with additional cohorts in Fairbanks, Kodiak, and Mat-Su.
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Includes online, hybrid, and in-person classes, with specializations in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Nursing Education Leadership, and Nursing Administration Leadership.
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Designed for those with substantial nursing experience, focusing on research, best practices, and clinical expertise.
Graduation Rates
Graduation rates reflect UAA's commitment to student success:
- AAS Program: On-time graduation rates were 86% in 2022, 82% in 2023, and 83% in 2024 .University of Alaska Anchorage
- BSN Program: On-time graduation rates were 94% in 2022, 91% in 2023, and 86% in 2024 .University of Alaska Anchorage
Career Prospects
Graduates from UAA's nursing programs can anticipate competitive salaries. Registered Nurses (RNs) in Alaska earn an average annual salary of approximately $109,210, significantly higher than the national average .
Next Steps
For those considering a nursing career in Alaska, UAA offers a comprehensive education in a unique environment.Prospective students should explore the various programs and resources available to support their educational journey.
Explore potential nursing roles that align with your skills and career goals: https://goodwork.world/explore-jobs
