Living in a state with large rural areas can make earning a master’s degree challenging. That’s where online master’s programs come in. If you’re considering distance learning, you likely have many questions. This guide answers those questions and highlights flexible, accredited online programs available in Alaska, all from the comfort of your home.
Author: Ellery Weil, MA
Expertise: Public HealthEducationSocial WorkEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Top Fields
The most promising fields in the state, based on job outlook, earning potential, affordability, and local opportunities…
Read more - Accreditation
What accreditation is, why it matters, and the accrediting bodies relevant for students in this state…
Read more - Program Types
The variety of online master’s programs offered in the state, from full-time and part-time to accelerated formats…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Top Schools
Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Alaska
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Details of Popular MEd Programs Online in Alaska
University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA)
The University of Alaska Anchorage is Alaska’s largest university and offers a wide range of online and hybrid master’s programs across fields such as business, health, education, and engineering.
Courses may be either synchronous (set meeting times) or asynchronous (no set meeting times), allowing students to choose which format best fits their schedule.
UAA students may attend optional in-person sessions at UAA or partner campuses, but fully online paths are available. These programs maintain the same academic standards and accreditations as on-campus offerings, preparing graduates for meaningful careers in Alaska and beyond.
Featured Program: Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Duration: 42 credits (about two years full-time)
- Mode: 100% online
- Cost: $513 per credit (in-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (any field)
- College transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- Personal statement outlining interest in public health
University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)
The University of Alaska Fairbanks is a top-tier research university offering eight online master’s degrees in areas ranging from business administration to Arctic studies. Most courses are asynchronous, with weekly assignments and interactive tools. Some classes may include live video chats or seminars to support collaboration.
Online students receive the same faculty support as on-campus learners. Many programs also draw on UAF’s expertise in northern and Arctic issues, preparing graduates for high-demand fields such as emergency management and education — both in Alaska and worldwide.
Featured Program: Master of Security and Disaster Management (MSDM)
- Duration: 30 credits (about two years full-time)
- Mode: 100% online
- Cost: $555 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (any discipline) with a minimum 2.75 GPA
- Official transcripts
- Statement of purpose (500 to 700 words)
- Three letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
University of Alaska Southeast (UAS)
Serving Juneau and Southeast Alaska, the University of Alaska Southeast specializes in online programs in business, public administration, and education. These programs allow students to remain in their communities while advancing their careers.
Classes are small, and online students receive extensive support, including tutoring and academic advising. Course formats vary:
- Some include live web meetings
- Others allow independent work with flexible deadlines
Many UAS programs incorporate Alaska-focused topics — such as rural development and marine policy — alongside traditional curricula, preparing graduates for leadership roles in local government, industry, and nonprofits.
Featured Program: Master of Public Administration (MPA)
- Duration: 36 credits (about two years full-time)
- Mode: 100% online
- Cost: $513 per credit (in-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (any field) with transcripts
- Required advising meeting with the MPA program director
- Professional resume or CV
- Statement of purpose (about two pages)
- Three recommendation forms or letters addressing leadership potential
Exploring Alaska’s Top Fields of Study
Once you’ve identified potential programs, the next step is deciding what to study. Below are five high-demand fields in Alaska where advanced credentials offer strong returns through job growth, salary potential, and workforce impact.
Education (K-12 and Higher Education)
Alaska faces a persistent teacher shortage, particularly in rural districts. Of the approximately 7,400 teachers statewide, more than 1,100 positions remain unfilled — about 15% of all teaching jobs.
Earning a master’s in education can help you move into these in-demand roles. Many districts offer higher pay for teachers with graduate degrees, improving return on investment. Leadership positions, such as principals or curriculum specialists, often require a master’s as well.
Alaska universities offer online MEd and online MAT programs designed to serve diverse communities and improve student outcomes statewide.
Healthcare and Nursing
Healthcare is one of Alaska’s largest and fastest-growing industries. The sector is projected to add 1,000 new jobs in 2025 alone, a 2.9% increase. Online master’s programs can prepare you for advanced roles, including:
- Nurse practitioners, who earn about $126,000 annually on average in Alaska
- Public health professionals addressing challenges in rural and Indigenous communities
Graduate credentials are often required for leadership, administration, and specialized clinical roles, making healthcare a strong choice for growth and impact.
Business Administration and Management
Employers across Alaska need skilled managers, from energy companies in Anchorage to tourism operators in Juneau. An MBA or related business master’s develops leadership and project management skills applicable across industries. Alaska employment grew 1.6% in 2025, driven in part by infrastructure and construction projects that require experienced managers.
UAA MBA alumni report nearly a 50% salary increase within five years, highlighting strong ROI. Whether your goal is corporate, nonprofit, or government leadership, a business master’s provides versatile skills and professional networks.
Public Administration and Policy
Government is a major employer in Alaska, with roughly 80,000 residents working in federal, state, or local roles. Alaska also has one of the highest shares of federal jobs outside Washington, D.C. An MPA or public policy degree builds skills in:
- Budgeting
- Policy analysis
- Public-sector management
Graduates often work as program managers, policy analysts, city administrators, or tribal government leaders — roles critical to Alaska’s rural development, natural resource management, and public health initiatives.
Engineering and Project Management
Alaska’s economy relies on large-scale engineering projects, including pipelines, ports, bridges, and mines. Demand remains strong, particularly in oil, gas, and infrastructure.
The oil and gas sector alone is expected to add 600 jobs in 2025. Petroleum engineers in Alaska earn an average of $130,000 annually. A master’s in engineering or project management can:
- Increase earning potential
- Support professional licensure
- Enable specialization in areas like renewable energy or remote sensing
Accreditation for Online Master’s Programs in Alaska
Accreditation signals that a school or program meets established academic standards. In Alaska, institutions are regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Because UAA, UAF, and UAS are NWCCU-accredited, their online degrees are recognized nationwide for:
- Credit transfer
- Graduate admissions
- Employer recognition
Many programs also hold specialized accreditation. For example:
- UAA’s Project Management master’s is accredited by PMI’s Global Accreditation Center
- UAA’s MPH is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
Accreditation ensures your degree is respected by employers and licensing boards.
Types of Online Master’s Degree Programs in Alaska
Online programs offer multiple pacing and format options, including:
- Full-time or part-time enrollment
- Accelerated pathways
- No-GRE admissions
Below is a breakdown of common program structures.
Full-Time Programs
Full-time study typically involves three courses or nine credits per term, allowing completion in one to two years. You can expect:
- About 40 hours per week of coursework
- Faster completion and career advancement
- Flexible study times despite a demanding pace
Examples include University of Alaska Fairbank’s MBA that can be completed in about 12 to 18 months of full-time study, and the MPA at UAS that can be completed in about two years.
Part-Time Programs
Part-time programs are ideal for professionals balancing work and family. Students usually take one to two courses at a time, finishing in two to four years.
Part-time students:
- Take the same courses as full-time peers
- Retain access to financial aid and campus resources
- Often move through programs in supportive cohorts
Examples include the UAA Master of Education in Special Education, which lets you take evening online classes while teaching, and the UAF Master of Security and Disaster Management, where most students finish in two to three years while working.
No-GRE Programs
Many Alaska online master’s programs waive the GRE, focusing instead on:
- Undergraduate GPA
- Professional experience
- Letters of recommendation
All three universities featured in this guide offer no-GRE options. For example, UAF waives the GRE for MBA applicants with a 3.25 GPA or higher.
Accelerated Programs
Accelerated programs compress coursework or allow students to begin graduate classes early. While options are limited, students can accelerate by enrolling year-round.
The primary accelerated option is UAA’s Accelerated MS in Project Management, which allows undergraduates to apply credits toward both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
How Much Does an Online Master’s Program in Alaska Cost?
Tuition is typically charged per credit and remains competitive nationally. Alaska residents pay as little as $513 per credit at UAA.
Most programs require 30 to 45 credits, with total tuition ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 or more.
Additional benefits include:
- In-state tuition rates for fully online students, even if out of state
- Reduced campus fees
- No housing or commuting costs
| School | Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alaska Anchorage — Master of Public Health | 42 | $513 | $21,546 |
| University of Alaska Fairbanks — Master of Business Administration | 30 | $555 | $16,650 |
| University of Alaska Southeast — Master of Public Administration | 36 | $513 | $18,468 |
FAQs from Alaska’s Online Master’s Students
Q: Can I enroll in an Alaska online master’s program if I live out of state?
A: Yes, Alaska’s online master’s programs are open to residents of any state. In fact, out-of-state students often pay the same tuition rate as Alaskans for fully online programs. The University of Alaska waives non-resident surcharges for online courses, and through the Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) exchange, many Western state residents automatically get in-state tuition.
While you can complete coursework remotely from wherever you are, you should be mindful of time zone differences for any live class sessions (Alaska is one hour behind Pacific Time). Otherwise, the experience will be very similar to that of an in-state online student.
Q: Will I ever need to visit campus during an online master’s program?
A: As an online student, you usually don’t have to worry about making it to campus. Most online master’s programs in Alaska are designed to be completed 100% at a distance, with coursework, projects, and exams done from home.
Some programs might have optional opportunities to visit (orientation, networking, or commencement). A few specialized programs could require short in-person components; examples of this may include a practicum in a local school for an education degree or a lab session for a science course. However, those can often be arranged in your local area or conducted virtually.
Generally, you will not be required to travel to campus, but always check program details before applying. Alaska’s universities understand the importance of flexibility given the state’s geography and make sure online students can fully participate from afar.
Q: Are online classes in Alaska live or on my own schedule?
A: It depends on the course, but you’ll encounter both formats. Many online classes in Alaska, such as the online classes at UAF, are asynchronous, meaning you have no set meeting times. You’ll log in to a platform (like Canvas) to access lectures, readings, and assignments each week at times convenient for you. This is great if you need maximum flexibility for work-life balance during your degree.
Other classes may use synchronous sessions, such as a weekly evening Zoom seminar, to allow real-time discussions. The online coursework page at UAS, for instance, notes that some subjects lend themselves to live online classes while others do not. If you have the option to learn in person, you may want to weigh which learning style is best for you.
In practice, online programs often combine synchronous and asynchronous coursework. You might have occasional live webinars or group presentations, but much of the work is self-paced with deadlines. In all cases, instructors are just an email or video chat away. You’ll also engage with classmates via discussion boards, group projects, and possibly tools like blogs or video conferencing for presentations, all of which can help you build a network of peers and mentors.
Q: What support services can online master’s students in Alaska expect?
A: Online students at Alaska’s universities have access to comprehensive support, equivalent to on-campus services. This includes academic advising to help plan your courses, tech support for the online platforms, and tutoring or writing centers to assist with coursework. You can virtually meet with professors during office hours (via phone or video chat) to discuss class material or research projects.
Many university libraries offer extensive online resources and even mail delivery for books, which will help you develop the research skills necessary for graduate-level coursework. Career services are also available for resume reviews, job search help, or virtual career fairs. Additionally, many programs create cohort communities online, so you’ll build relationships with classmates despite the distance.
Q: How can I finance my online master’s program in Alaska?
A: You have several options to make graduate school affordable. First, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will determine your eligibility for federal aid like student loans or grants, so make sure you fill out your FAFSA correctly and on time. Online students enrolled half-time or more can qualify for federal loans just as campus students do.
Next, you can explore scholarships. Both university programs and external organizations have scholarships in high-need fields like education and nursing. If you’re working, check if your employer provides tuition assistance or reimbursement for related degrees. Importantly, Alaska online programs often have unique funding opportunities, such as with UAF’s College of Business, which offers paid teaching assistantships and a tuition waiver for nine credits.
Finally, because tuition rates are relatively low, some students pay out-of-pocket per course, using payment plans to spread costs. By combining these resources — aid, scholarships, employer help, and smart budgeting — you can finance your online master’s with minimal debt.