Top Nursing Schools in Alaska (2026 Rankings)
Last updated: April 2026 · Program details and tuition rates are subject to change.
Alaska's nursing landscape is unique. With vast rural communities, remote villages, and a critical shortage of healthcare professionals, nurses in the Last Frontier are in exceptionally high demand — and earn some of the highest salaries in the nation.
While Alaska has fewer nursing programs than most states, the programs available are comprehensive, well-respected, and designed to prepare nurses for the unique challenges of practicing in frontier and rural healthcare settings. The average RN salary in Alaska is approximately $109,210 per year.
$109,210
Avg. RN Salary/year
89.19%
UAA NCLEX pass rate (2024)
$2,500–$4,000+
Travel nurse weekly pay
Unique Practice Considerations in Alaska
Nurses in Alaska often work with a broader scope of practice than those in other states, particularly in rural and tribal health settings. You may find yourself as the sole healthcare provider in a remote village, managing complex cases via telehealth, or coordinating medevac transports. This environment builds exceptionally strong clinical skills and independence.
Alaska is a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), meaning RNs with a multistate license from a compact state can practice in Alaska without obtaining a separate state license.
Nursing Programs in Alaska
University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA)
Anchorage, AK (with cohorts in Fairbanks, Kodiak, and Mat-Su) · Public
The University of Alaska Anchorage is the state's flagship nursing program and the primary pipeline for Alaska's nursing workforce. As the largest university in Alaska, UAA offers the most comprehensive range of nursing degrees in the state, from associate through doctoral level.
- BSN cohorts in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kodiak, and Mat-Su Valley
- MSN tracks: FNP, PMHNP, Nursing Education & Administration
- NCLEX pass rate: 89.19% (2024)
- BSN graduation rate: 86–94%
- 'Live and Learn in Alaska' program offers in-state tuition for out-of-state students living on campus
- Unique clinical experience in tribal health facilities and frontier clinics
University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)
Fairbanks, AK · Public
While UAF doesn't offer its own standalone nursing degree, the Fairbanks campus partners with UAA to offer BSN cohorts locally. Students in Fairbanks can complete their nursing education without relocating to Anchorage, with access to clinical placements at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital and tribal health centers.
- Local BSN cohort — no relocation to Anchorage required
- Clinical placements at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital
- Access to interior Alaska tribal health centers
Charter College
Anchorage, AK · Private, For-Profit
Charter College offers a Practical Nursing Certificate program for students looking to enter the nursing workforce quickly as LPNs. This can be a stepping stone for students who plan to pursue an RN license and BSN degree through bridge programs later. Flexible scheduling can be appealing for students who need to work while attending school.
- Flexible scheduling for working students
- LPN pathway to RN bridge programs
- Faster entry into nursing workforce
Alaska Pacific University
Anchorage, AK · Private, Non-Profit
Alaska Pacific University has periodically offered health sciences programs, though its nursing offerings have been more limited compared to UAA. Students interested in health sciences in a small, private university setting should check APU's current catalog for any pre-nursing or health-related pathways.
- Small, private university environment
- Personalized academic experience
- Check current catalog for nursing availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do nurses make in Alaska?
The average RN salary in Alaska is approximately $109,210 per year, making it one of the highest-paying states for nurses in the U.S. Advanced-practice nurses (NPs, CRNAs) can earn $130,000–$200,000+.
Is it hard to get into nursing school in Alaska?
UAA's BSN program is competitive, with limited seats and a separate nursing application process. Strong prerequisite grades (especially in sciences) and healthcare experience improve your chances. The limited number of programs in the state means seats fill up quickly.
Can I do nursing school online in Alaska?
UAA offers hybrid and online options for MSN and DNP programs. The BSN program requires in-person clinical rotations but offers cohort locations beyond Anchorage. For fully online pre-licensure options, students may consider accredited online programs from institutions in other states, though clinical hours must still be completed in person.
Last updated: April 2026. Program details and tuition rates are subject to change. Always verify current information directly with the school.
Get the highest-paying remote nursing jobs
Join 5,000+ nurses who receive curated remote opportunities every week. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.