University of Alaska Anchorage

Nestled in the heart of Alaska's largest city, the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) stands as the state's premier institution of higher learning. As an open-access public university, UAA serves as a dynamic hub for education and research, extending its reach across Southcentral Alaska through its main Anchorage campus and four vital community colleges. Students here benefit from an unparalleled connection to Alaska's unique culture and environment, making it an ideal place to learn and explore.

UAA's journey began in 1954 as the Anchorage Community College (ACC), offering evening classes and steadily growing to meet the region's educational needs. Over the decades, it evolved, first incorporating into the University of Alaska system, then merging with the Anchorage Senior College (ASC) in 1987 to become the comprehensive University of Alaska Anchorage we know today. This rich history reflects a continuous commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education to Alaskans and beyond.

Academically, UAA is structured into five core instructional and research units: the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Public Policy, Community and Technical College, College of Engineering, and College of Health. This diverse framework supports over 200 programs, ranging from practical certificates and associate degrees to rigorous baccalaureate, master's, and even doctoral degrees through cooperative university partnerships. The university is proudly accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, ensuring a standard of academic excellence.

Beyond its impressive academic offerings, UAA fosters a vibrant and inclusive student experience. With roughly 10,796 students, it attracts a diverse population, including a significant number of non-traditional and returning students, and proudly hosts the largest population of student veterans in the state. Many students commute from in and around Anchorage, creating a strong community connection, while a notable portion also join from outside Alaska and the United States, enriching the campus with varied perspectives.