University of Alaska Southeast

Based on its ROI score of 72 and affordability score of 90, the University of Alaska Southeast appears to be a reasonable investment, particularly for in-state students, though the low graduation rate is a concern.

Graduates of the University of Alaska Southeast can expect median earnings of approximately $48,475 ten years after entry, with an average debt of $19,111.

The University of Alaska Southeast scores highly on affordability (90) and has a decent ROI score (72), suggesting it offers good value, especially for in-state students, compared to potentially higher-cost alternatives.

A significant challenge is the low graduation rate of 29.5%, indicating that a substantial portion of students do not complete their degrees.

No, the University of Alaska Southeast has an admission rate of 63.3%, indicating it is not highly selective.

The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) has a relatively accessible admission rate of approximately 63.3%, indicating that it is not highly selective. This means that a significant majority of applicants are typically accepted. To be considered for admission, prospective students generally need a high school diploma or GED. While specific GPA or standardized test score requirements are not always strictly enforced for all programs, maintaining a solid academic record in high school is always beneficial. For students seeking to strengthen their application, focusing on core academic subjects, participating in extracurricular activities, and writing a compelling personal essay can be advantageous. UAS also offers pathways for students who may not meet traditional admission criteria, such as conditional admission or enrollment in developmental courses. The university emphasizes providing educational opportunities to a broad range of students, particularly those within Alaska. Prospective students are encouraged to review the specific program requirements for their intended major, as some specialized programs might have additional prerequisites or a more competitive admission process. Overall, getting into UAS is generally considered manageable for most high school graduates.

The value of a University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) degree is largely dependent on residency status and career aspirations. For in-state students, the tuition is significantly lower ($7,056 annually), making the median 10-year earnings of $48,475 a more attractive outcome. With a median debt of $19,111, in-state graduates can realistically expect to pay off their loans within 2-3 years of securing employment, representing a strong return on investment. The ROI score of 72 reflects this solid value for Alaskans. However, for out-of-state students, the tuition jumps to $20,640 annually. This higher cost dramatically impacts the debt-to-earnings ratio. A graduate with $19,111 in debt, facing higher tuition costs during their studies, will take considerably longer to recoup their educational investment. While the median earnings remain the same, the increased upfront cost makes the value proposition less compelling compared to other institutions. UAS is a worthwhile investment for in-state students seeking a quality education with manageable debt and regional career prospects. Out-of-state students should carefully weigh the program benefits against the higher cost and consider if the unique opportunities in Southeast Alaska align with their long-term career goals.

The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) excels in programs that align with the unique economic and environmental landscape of Southeast Alaska. Majors such as Environmental Science and Biology are particularly strong, leveraging the region's rich natural resources, diverse ecosystems, and proximity to national forests and marine environments. These programs often lead to careers in conservation, resource management, and environmental consulting within Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Business Administration, with concentrations like Management and Accounting, is another robust area, preparing graduates for roles in the region's tourism, government, and small business sectors. The Education department, offering programs in Elementary and Secondary Education, is crucial for supplying teachers to local school districts, making it a reliable path for employment within Alaska. For those interested in public service, the Political Science and Public Administration programs are well-regarded, feeding into state and local government positions in Juneau. UAS also offers unique programs like Marine Conservation, which capitalize on its coastal location. Graduates from these fields often find strong regional demand, making them excellent choices for students seeking to build a career in Southeast Alaska or related fields nationally.

Student life at the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) is characterized by its intimate scale and deep connection to the stunning natural environment of Juneau. With a small student population of around 907, UAS fosters a close-knit community where students often know each other and their professors well. Campus activities tend to be community-focused and often revolve around outdoor pursuits. The university offers various clubs and organizations, ranging from academic societies to recreational groups, encouraging student engagement. Due to its location, outdoor recreation is a major component of the student experience, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, skiing, and exploring the surrounding Tongass National Forest and Mendenhall Glacier. The campus itself is modern and compact, situated amidst breathtaking scenery. Social life is generally relaxed and centered around campus events, local community activities, and shared interests. While it may not offer the bustling nightlife or large-scale sporting events of a major university, UAS provides a unique, supportive environment for students who appreciate nature, community involvement, and a more personal educational journey. The smaller size means more opportunities for leadership roles and direct interaction with faculty and peers.

The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) provides a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their education. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. Aid typically includes federal grants (like Pell Grants), state grants specific to Alaska residents, institutional scholarships offered by UAS, and federal student loans. For the most recent reporting periods, approximately 75-80% of full-time undergraduate students receive financial aid. The average institutional grant or scholarship award can vary, but it aims to supplement federal and state aid. UAS also offers specific scholarships based on academic merit, program of study, and financial need, often funded by alumni donations and regional partnerships. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible to determine eligibility for federal and state aid. UAS's own scholarship application process typically opens in the late fall for the following academic year. While specific dollar amounts for average aid packages fluctuate annually, the university is committed to making education accessible, particularly for Alaska residents, through a combination of grants, scholarships, and loans.

Graduates from the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) can expect a median salary in the range of $48,475 ten years after graduation, according to available data. This figure represents the median earnings across all programs and is a key indicator of long-term career financial outcomes. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen major, geographic location of employment, and specific job role. For instance, graduates from programs like Business Administration or Public Administration who secure positions within the state government in Juneau or management roles in the tourism sector might find starting salaries in the $40,000-$55,000 range, potentially increasing to $60,000-$75,000+ with experience and advancement. Alumni in fields like Environmental Science or Biology, especially those working for federal agencies or specialized consulting firms, could see similar or slightly higher earning potential, particularly if they pursue graduate degrees. Those entering education might start in the $50,000-$60,000 range, depending on the school district and experience level. It's important to note that the median earnings are reported 10 years post-graduation, reflecting career growth rather than immediate starting salaries. Graduates who remain in Alaska may find cost-of-living adjustments impact their effective income, while those relocating to areas with higher salaries might see different outcomes.

The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) offers on-campus housing primarily through two main residence halls: Grant Hall and Johnson Hall. These halls provide a traditional dormitory experience, designed to foster a sense of community among students living on campus. Rooms are typically furnished with basic essentials like a bed, desk, and closet space for each resident. Most rooms are double occupancy, though some single rooms may be available depending on demand and availability. Both halls offer shared common areas, such as lounges with seating and study spaces, kitchens or kitchenettes for residents to prepare meals, and laundry facilities. Bathrooms are generally shared on each floor. The atmosphere in the residence halls is geared towards supporting academic success and social integration. Resident Advisors (RAs) are available on each floor to provide support, organize community-building activities, and enforce campus policies. Living on campus at UAS provides convenient access to classes, the library, and other campus facilities, as well as opportunities to connect with fellow students. Given Juneau's housing market, on-campus living can also be a more affordable and straightforward option for many students, especially those new to the city.

The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) offers research opportunities, particularly for undergraduate students, that are closely tied to its regional strengths and faculty expertise. While it may not possess the extensive research infrastructure or large-scale funding of major research universities, UAS provides valuable hands-on research experiences, especially in fields like Environmental Science, Biology, and Marine Biology. Faculty members are often engaged in research relevant to Southeast Alaska's unique ecosystems, natural resources, and social issues. Students have the chance to participate in faculty-led research projects, assist with data collection, analysis, and potentially co-author publications or present findings at conferences. The Southeast Alaska Natural History Center and the Marine Science program are key areas where research involvement is common. UAS also encourages undergraduate research through programs like the annual Student Research Symposium, providing a platform for students to showcase their work. For students seeking intensive, graduate-level research or careers in R1 university settings, UAS might serve as a strong stepping stone, offering foundational research skills and experiences that prepare them for further study at larger institutions. The focus is more on applied, field-based, and community-relevant research.

The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) occupies a unique niche within the higher education landscape, particularly when compared to other institutions in Alaska and similar-sized regional public universities. Its primary peers within Alaska are the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) and the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF). Compared to UAA and UAF, UAS is significantly smaller, offering a more intimate learning environment and potentially more personalized attention from faculty. UAA and UAF, being larger, offer a broader range of academic programs, more extensive research facilities, and a more traditional large university campus experience with greater athletic and extracurricular options. Alaska Pacific University (APU) in Anchorage is another potential peer, though it is a private institution with a smaller student body and a distinct focus on experiential learning and environmental themes, often at a higher tuition cost than UAS. UAS's key advantages over these peers include its specific focus on Southeast Alaska's environment and economy, its lower in-state tuition compared to APU, and its capital city location which offers unique government and tourism-related opportunities. However, its disadvantages lie in its limited program diversity, smaller research capacity, and geographic isolation from major population and industry centers compared to UAA or UAF.

Employers, particularly within Alaska, generally hold a positive view of degrees from the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS), especially for roles aligned with the university's program strengths and regional needs. UAS graduates are often sought after for positions in state and local government, environmental management, education, and the tourism industry, reflecting the core economic drivers of Southeast Alaska. Employers value the practical skills and regional knowledge that UAS graduates often possess, stemming from the university's focus on applied learning and its connection to the local community. For roles in federal agencies located in Juneau, such as NOAA or the Forest Service, a UAS degree is well-recognized and often preferred due to its relevance. In fields like education, UAS alumni are a vital part of the local workforce. While UAS may not have the widespread name recognition of larger, national universities, its reputation within Alaska is solid. Employers appreciate the adaptability and strong work ethic often demonstrated by graduates from smaller, more focused institutions. For positions outside of Alaska, the brand recognition might be lower, but the quality of education and specific skills acquired, particularly in environmental sciences or public administration, can still be highly valued by employers seeking specialized expertise.