University of Alaska Anchorage

Perched amidst the majestic landscape of Anchorage, Alaska, the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) stands as the state's largest and most comprehensive institution of higher learning. Renowned for its unique blend of academic rigor and unparalleled access to the Alaskan wilderness, UAA extends its reach beyond its vibrant main campus to administer four vital community campuses across Southcentral Alaska. This commitment to accessibility ensures that a diverse student body, including a significant population of non-traditional learners, commuters, and the state's largest contingent of student veterans, finds a welcoming and supportive academic home.

UAA's roots trace back to 1954 with the founding of Anchorage Community College (ACC), which initially offered evening classes to a small cohort. Over the years, this institution grew, eventually incorporating into the University of Alaska system. A pivotal moment came in 1987 when ACC merged with the University of Alaska, Anchorage Senior College (which itself began offering upper-division and graduate programs in 1971) to form the comprehensive university known today as UAA. This rich history of expansion reflects a deep dedication to meeting Alaska's evolving educational needs.

Academically, UAA is a powerhouse, offering over 200 programs ranging from essential certificate programs to associate, baccalaureate, master's, and even doctoral degrees (through cooperating universities). The main campus is structured into five key instructional and research units: the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Public Policy, Community and Technical College, College of Engineering, and the College of Health. With robust accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, UAA ensures high-quality education across its diverse offerings.

For students, UAA provides an open-access environment on its sprawling 1,702-acre campus, strategically located in Anchorage's University-Medical District. This setting offers unique opportunities for hands-on learning and community engagement, benefiting from proximity to major medical facilities. Whether you're a recent high school graduate, a returning adult learner, or a veteran seeking new career paths, UAA's supportive atmosphere and comprehensive programs are designed to help you reach the top, truly embodying its motto, "Ad summum."