Best Colleges in Alaska

Alaska’s sparse population makes for intimate class sizes and easy-to-navigate campuses. You can choose between one of the 10 colleges and universities, including 1 major public university, 5 public two-year institutions, and a handful of private schools.* And now that Alaska is growing, so are the opportunities. Since 2000, the state has seen a population growth of almost 14%.* Because Alaska’s economy relies heavily on tourism, fishing, and the oil and natural gasses industries, job opportunities are only increasing in these fields.

Alaska’s major universities are home to the Geophysical Institute, which operates the Poker Flat Research Range-the only collegiate rocket test range in the nation. You can also find the renowned School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. Students in geology, atmospheric science and wildlife biology have a front-row seat to the state’s astounding topography and sprawling landscape of 540,641 square miles.* When you aren’t in the classroom, make time for fun-especially during the summer when daylight can be as long as 19 hours. Bundle up and catch a rare look at the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which kicks off in Anchorage every March. See other big-ticket cultural staples, such as the Sitka Whale Fest or Anchorage’s Alaska Native Heritage Center. Or spend some time outdoors hiking, fishing, or skiing. You have to be tough to live in Alaska, but where else can you whale watch between classes?