School Details
In 1917, the University of Alaska Fairbanks opened with a federal land grant as the Alaska Agricultural College and School of Mines with research and teaching in support of agriculture and mining as its focus. In 1935 the Alaska Territorial Legislature changed the institution’s name to the University of Alaska to reflect the school’s expanding role in research, teaching, and public service for all of Alaska. By then, faculty and course offerings had grown to include a range of liberal arts, science, and engineering. To meet the need for expanding services for all Alaskans, the University of Alaska statewide system was created in 1975.
Today, UAF is an international center for research, education, and the arts. It integrates teaching, research, and public service, preparing students for a lifetime of learning and success. UAF offers a full range of undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates.
Online degrees are offered through UAOnline from various campuses, including Anchorage and Juneau. UAOnline covers fields from medical coding and reception to information technology. These online degrees are flexible, allowing students to learn from top instructors from anywhere in the world and around their busy schedules. UAF has the longest-running distance learning program in Alaska.
Accreditation & Licensing
University of Alaska Fairbanks is accredited by:
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
University of Alaska Fairbanks online offers an Associate of Arts degree to the online student. This program is designed to help students transfer to a higher degree at UAF or to another four-year university. Studies include but are not limited to:
- Communications
- Mathematics
- Library and Information Research
Courses are extremely flexible to match the schedules of working adult students. Helpful, high-quality faculty and staff guide students through a broad-based curriculum. Take the first academic step towards a better career or higher education with UAF online.
Earn an Associate of Science degree in a flexible academic format through University of Alaska Fairbanks distance learning. This program is designed to fit the busy schedule of working adult students. Studies include but are not limited to:
- Social Sciences
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
This broad-based course of study focuses primarily on sciences. Students who complete this two-year program are prepared to pursue a science-related baccalaureate program with UAF or transfer to another four-year university. UAF online faculty and staff are helpful in guiding students through a flexible and accessible academic format.
An online Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in History is available in a flexible academic format through University of Alaska Fairbanks. This program prepares students for entry-level historian positions or to pursue a more advanced degree. Areas of focus include but are not limited to:
- America
- East Asia
- Europe
- Environmental History
Throughout studies, students will develop the methods and tools necessary to construct new narratives. Students will also enhance essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and communication. Graduates with this degree may pursue successful careers in education, law, business, arts, and more.
Business
The online AAS in Applied Accounting degree program from the University of Alaska Fairbanks is designed to prepare students for entry- and mid-level accounting careers. The curriculum includes a mix of accounting and business courses that provide skills in:
- Keeping financial records
- Preparation of financial and tax statements
- Bookkeeping
- Payroll accounting
The online AAS in Applied Business degree program from the University of Alaska Fairbanks is designed to provide students with the skills and training necessary to be successful in the rapidly changing world of business. The curriculum covers a wide range of business-related subjects including:
- Emerging Technologies
- Advanced Business Procedures
- Interpersonal Skills
- Accounting
- Management
- Human Resources
- Communications
- Customer Service
- Business Law
The online BBA degree program from the University of Alaska Fairbanks is designed to be a versatile degree that offers a solid foundation in business concepts. Graduates are prepared for everything from starting their own organization to working for Fortune 500 companies. Additionally, students may choose one of the following concentration areas to suit their personal interests and professional goals:
- General Business
- Marketing
- Leadership
- Sport Management
Earn a versatile degree that prepares you for numerous types of organizations with this Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting degree online. Gain a solid foundation in business concepts while completing courses in:
- Income tax
- Managerial cost accounting
- Auditing
- Account information systems
- Business ethics
While you are learning technical business skills, coursework provides opportunities for networking, internships, and soft skill development. In addition to real-world learning experiences, the curriculum provides knowledge and skills needed for careers in general accounting, auditing, managerial accounting, taxation, or government accounting. Asynchronous classes allow students to study on their own schedule, working around career and family commitments.
The online Certificate in Accounting Technician program from the University of Alaska Fairbanks is designed to prepare students for entry-level accounting positions in payables and receivables, bookkeeping, and payroll accounting. Courses, which also count toward the AAS in Applied Accounting degree, cover topics such as:
- Principles of Accounting
- Payroll Accounting
- Fund Accounting for Nonprofits
- Income Tax
- QuickBooks
The online Certificate in Applied Business Management program from the University of Alaska Fairbanks provides students with the well-rounded business education needed the run a business effectively. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects including:
- Emerging Technologies
- Advanced Business Procedures
- Interpersonal Skills
- Principles of Accounting
- Human Relations
- Customer Service
- Business Law
- Finance
- Logic
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers an online MBA with a concentration in General Management which prepares students to provide imaginative and responsible leadership in industry and government. Students are able to choose electives suited to their interests and career goals while also receiving instruction in core areas such as:
- Organizational Theory
- Marketing Management
- Quantitative Methods for Managers
- Financial Markets & Strategy
- Corporate Strategy
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers an online MBA with a concentration in STEM, with a particular focus on Fisheries, Marine Biology, and Oceanography. This concentration examines the environmental changes occurring throughout the Arctic and specifically in Alaska's oceans, coasts, and inland waters, and how those changes affect a broad range of businesses and the global economy. Graduates possess the knowledge and skills needed to develop business models ensuring the sustainable use of marine and freshwater resources.
Computer Science & IT
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers an Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology program that prepares students to implement, support and troubleshoot computer and information technology systems. Courses cover topics such as network support and administration, computer programming, network security, and more.
The Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network & System Administration is an online network administration degree from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. If you want to enter the workforce immediately after completing your degree and will probably not go on to higher education, this degree may be for you. Students in this program complete courses that examine and explain network services and how they operate within a network environment. You will study routing concepts, LAN security, network switching concepts, and the architecture, components, and operations of cloud-based computer systems. Courses are likely to include:
- System and Network Services Administration
- Networking and LAN Infrastructure Basics
- Routing and Switching Essentials
- Advanced Network Infrastructure Services
- Directory Services Administration
The curriculum in this online network administration degree prepares students for the CCNA certification exam.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers an Undergraduate Certificate in Information Technology Specialist program which gives students a strong foundation of knowledge and skills required to effectively use and troubleshoot computer and information technology systems. Graduates may pursue careers such as desktop support technician, help desk specialist, or computer support specialist.
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
The Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network & Cybersecurity from University of Alaska Fairbanks is an online network administration degree. If you want to enter the workforce immediately after completing your degree and will probably not go on to higher education, this degree may be for you. Emphasis in this online cybersecurity degree is placed on preparing students for the job market where they will be working to protect valuable information and assets stored online along with mitigating threats to security involving technology. Students will also study networking and LAN infrastructures.
Courses are likely to include:
- Networking and LAN Infrastructure Basics
- Routing and Switching Essentials
- Advanced Network Infrastructure Services
- Cybersecurity Defense and Countermeasures
- Network Security Penetration Testing
The online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies program allows current paralegals to update their skills and trains students for employment as paralegals in private law offices; within local, state, and federal agencies; and within legal departments of large corporations. Students will learn to help deliver legal services under the supervision of practicing lawyers, including performing legal research and drafting letters, office memoranda, pleadings, contracts, wills, and similar documents; conducting interviews; investigating; and assisting in trial preparation and discovery. You will learn abut the ethical responsibilities owed by supervising lawyers to clients, other lawyers, and the court systems and remain aware of these responsibilities at all times. Students choose five areas to focus on from such areas as:
- Torts
- Criminal Law for Paralegals
- Contracts/Real Property
- Family Law
- Employment and Administrative Law for Paralegals
- Probate Law
- Business Organizations
The online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program is designed for professionals planning to pursue careers in Alaska or the Pacific Northwest, preparing them to contribute solutions to conflicts concerning federal, state, and Native American issues. The innovative curriculum offers insight into rural and tribal justice systems and restorative justice where students work with victims, offenders, and the community to repair the harm caused by criminal behavior. The program provides the knowledge and skills needed to understand the structure and function of the criminal justice system and make positive impacts in communities both rural and urban.
The online Bachelor of Homeland Security & Emergency Management program prepares individuals for careers that allow them to make impacts in their communities and to shape the emergency services field. Students will learn about the challenges facing emergency management and homeland security professionals in the current, post-9/11 environment, including man-made, natural, and technological disasters. The curriculum includes courses in disaster response operations and management, emergency planning, risk analysis, business continuity, crisis management, fiscal management for emergency management operations, training and management development, and more. You will choose a concentration from the following:
- Homeland Security
- Emergency Management
- Fire Administration
- Cyber Security
- Emergency Medical Management
From law enforcement agencies to correctional facilities and court systems, effective administration is essential for upholding the rule of law and ensuring fairness and accountability. The online Master of Arts in Justice Administration is a program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework needed to navigate the complexities of the justice system and lead with integrity. The advent of digital tools and platforms has transformed the way justice is administered, creating new challenges and opportunities for those tasked with its leadership.
Topics include, but are not limited to:
- Community and Restorative Justice
- Personnel Management
- Justice Program Planning
Classes are taught by experienced and dedicated faculty. The curriculum of the online Master of Arts in Justice Administration is carefully crafted to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, theories, and practices underlying the administration of justice. Investing in the Master of Arts in Justice Administration can provide students with the tools and credentials to lead with integrity and contribute to a more just and equitable society.
Organizations and governments worldwide are seeking skilled professionals who can anticipate, mitigate, and respond to a wide range of emergencies and crises. The online Master of Security & Disaster Management is an online program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and leadership capabilities needed to address these complex challenges head-on. The curriculum of the online Master of Security & Disaster Management is multidisciplinary in nature, drawing from fields such as emergency management, risk assessment, crisis communication, and homeland security.
Topics include, but are not limited to:
- Disaster Management Policy
- Community Planning
- Project Management
Through a combination of theoretical coursework, practical exercises, and case studies, students gain a deep understanding of the complex interplay between security, disaster, and risk management. Career opportunities for graduates include emergency management director, security analyst or consultant, disaster response coordinator, risk manager, cybersecurity specialist, policy advisor, and more. Investing in the online Master of Security & Disaster Management can provide students with the tools and credentials to lead effectively in times of crisis.
Education
You can learn engaging strategies for working with young children with the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. This online early childhood education associate’s program emphasizes the development of the whole child from birth through age 8.
This degree program appeals to those just starting their college education, career changers, or even parents who want preparation for child-rearing. Graduates have the knowledge and skills to help young children develop in such areas as:
- Social
- Emotional
- Physical
- Family support
As a K-12 special education teacher, you can gain expertise in best practices for helping those with special needs with the Master of Education in Special Education from UAF. This online gifted and special education master’s program provides the foundation for your career advancement.
Besides studying pedagogy for low and high-incidence students, your online special education graduate program covers such topics as:
- Teaching mathematics to special learners
- Assessment of students with exceptionalities
- Special education law
- Inclusive classrooms
You can learn the best practices for working with children from birth through age 8 with the Undergraduate Certificate in Early Childhood Education from UAF. This online early childhood education undergraduate program appeals to professionals seeking credentials in this field.
With a minimal investment of your time and money, you can learn the foundations of the development of young children. The benefits of this online early childhood education program include the following:
- Learn from the university’s Early Childhood Lab School
- Gain real-world experience by applying skills in learning environments
- Courses taught by award-winning faculty
Healthcare
The online Certificate in Health Care Reimbursement program prepares students for employment as medical billers and coders in medical offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical facilities. The curriculum teaches students about the analysis of medical records and the assigning of codes for indexing diagnoses and procedures to provide information for reimbursement purposes. Graduates are prepared for national certification through the American Academy of Professional Coders exam, as well as the American Health Information Management Association coding exam.
The online Certificate in Medical and Dental Reception prepares students for entry-level medical receptionist positions. This online program provides training for working in offices and in clinical care. Students gain a broad understanding of the healthcare delivery system to take into their careers.
Classes include, but are not limited to:
- Human diseases
- Medical office technology
- Medical law and ethics
Completing classwork in the flexible online program allows students to balance work, family, and getting an education. Students will be prepared to enter into healthcare office careers. Graduates will have a competitive edge in the job market upon completion of the online medical and dental reception certificate.
Math & Science
Earn an online Master of Arts degree in Arctic and Northern Studies through the University of Alaska Fairbanks. This important and unique degree program focuses on threats to the global environment from climate change to environmental pollution. Concentrations include Arctic Politics and Policy or an individualized focus drawn from research topics including but not limited to:
- Indigenous histories
- Arctic shipping
- Rural water and sanitation access
- Visual culture analysis
Courses are available in completely online and blended formats. Faculty with expertise in history, political science, anthropology, and more help students gain expertise in their fields. Graduates with this degree may find pursuable career paths in the National Parks Service, university administration, information technology, journalism and broadcasting, and other interdisciplinary fields.