Best Nursing Schools in Alaska
A nursing career is not only a rewarding and meaningful career, but in Alaska, it can also be a great opportunity for garnering job security and a higher-paying salary. Alaska estimates a whopping 14% increase in nursing jobs by 2030 which means there are plenty of nursing jobs to go around. If you’ve wondered what it takes to become a nurse, or if you’re interested in nursing programs beyond entry-level, check out the sections below.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Alaska
Rankings help students evaluate nursing programs and choose the best fit for their goals. Registerednursing.org is creating the 'Best Nursing Schools in Alaska' ranking, using NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criterion. We analyze state data to identify top performers. For our methodology, see https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
Alaska Pacific University
Anchorage, AK - Private 4-year - alaskapacific.edu
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Alaska Pacific University's RN to BSN program is designed for licensed registered nurses ready to take the next step in their careers. This flexible, online program allows you to continue working while earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The curriculum builds on your existing experience, deepening your clinical judgment and leadership abilities. You will explore topics like healthcare ethics, evidence-based research, pathophysiology, health assessment, nursing leadership, and population health. A unique focus on cultural safety prepares you to serve Alaska's diverse communities, incorporating Indigenous ways of knowing. With ACEN accreditation, the program meets high standards. Most courses are delivered in 7-week modules with synchronous online classes, and you can start in fall or spring. Graduates gain a competitive edge, with greater job placement opportunities and increased earning potential across the country.
- ACEN accredited
- 128 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Synchronous online classes
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- For licensed RNs seeking advancement
- Flexible for working nurses
- Culturally safe care focus
- Indigenous ways of knowing
University of Alaska Anchorage
Anchorage, AK - Public 4-Year - uaa.alaska.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Alaska Anchorage's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) offers two pathways: a pre-licensure option for aspiring registered nurses and an RN-to-BSN option for current RNs. The curriculum blends theory, skills labs, and clinical practicums in medical-surgical, psychiatric, child, family, and community health settings. Students build clinical reasoning through evidence-based practice and complete a capstone immersion. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN and careers in hospitals, clinics, and public health. ACEN accreditation ensures quality education. Anchorage's location provides unique opportunities to serve Alaska's diverse populations.
- ACEN accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- 120 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Clinical practicum immersion
- NCLEX review and career coaching
Charter College
Anchorage, AK - Private 4-year - chartercollege.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Kickstart your nursing career with Charter College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) program in Anchorage, Alaska. This blended learning program combines online and on-campus classes, offering flexibility for your busy life. In as few as 19 months, you'll build skills in anatomy, pharmacology, pediatrics, medical-surgical nursing, mental health, and clinical leadership. The curriculum includes NCLEX-RN review to prepare you for licensure as a registered nurse. Through clinical rotations at local hospitals and clinics, you'll gain hands-on experience. Graduates are ready for entry-level roles in hospitals, physicians' offices, and long-term care facilities. With high demand for nurses in Alaska, this ACEN-accredited program sets you up for a rewarding career.
- ACEN accredited
- 19-Month program
- Complete in In as few as two years
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Blended learning format
- NCLEX review included
- Clinical rotation required
- Available in Anchorage, Alaska
- High demand for nurses in Alaska
- Prepares for RN licensure
Alaska Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
One of the great things about nursing education is that there are a variety of degree options based on your specific goals and background. Most students start at the entry-level options such as an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or a nursing diploma. These options are usually the most affordable, have fewer admissions requirements, and take less time to complete.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
ADNs, BSNs, and nursing diplomas are all great options for nurses who have no experience as a nurses, but what are the differences between these, and are there alternatives? If you’re looking for the fastest option, a nursing diploma or ADN usually takes the shortest amount of time (1 – 2 years) compared to a BSN which takes four years. If you’re already working as an LPN, you can also take advantage of an LPN to RN bridge program, which allows you to leverage your work experience in exchange for a shorter route to either ADN or BSN degrees.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Alaska include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Alaska.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN to BSN vs. Accelerated BSN Programs
As you research the right program for you, you’ll likely come across three types of bachelor’s level options — an RN to BSN, traditional BSN, and accelerated BSN. If you’re not already working as a nurse and you’ve never gotten a bachelor before, you’ll want to go with the traditional option. If you already have a bachelor’s degree (even in an area that is not nursing, you can take advantage of ABSN programs, which allow you to get your BSN in a shorter amount of time. An RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses who are licensed to get their BSN in a shorter amount of time.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Alaska typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program Type | Length/Credits | Estimated Cost (In-State) | Who It’s For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students/career starters |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Bachelor's degree holders in another field |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Licensed registered nurses don’t have to enroll for the full four years to get a BSN degree if they don’t want to. Alaska RN to BSN programs allow students to get their BSN in only 2 years as opposed to 4 years with a traditional BSN program. To enroll in this program, you’ll need an RN license and an ADN.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Just because you’ve never worked in the nursing field before that doesn’t mean you can’t decide to get a nursing degree later on. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, even if it’s in a subject other than nursing, you can obtain a BSN in as little as a year as opposed to four years. These types of programs are known as ABSN programs.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
For some, becoming a registered nurse is a career in itself. However, many nurses who have been working at this level for several years may find that they need more independence and higher-paying salaries. If this sounds like you, there are educational options in Alaska that allow you to seek Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) licensure upon graduation. Nursing graduate degrees such as a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctorate Degree in Nursing (DNP) are the first step to seeking these positions.
Read more about advanced practice nursing programs in Alaska here:
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Alaska
The final step in the process of becoming a registered nurse is getting licensed. RN licensure in Alaska is obtained by graduating from an accredited nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and sending in an application. You will also be required to pay a fee to the Alaska Board of Nursing and follow up with your continuing education requirements to maintain licensure.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Alaska
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Alaska Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
As you review nursing programs, you’ll want to make sure that the programs you apply to are accredited/ RN program accreditation in the US is provided by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and any program that is not accredited by them will not meet the approval of the state board. As a consequence, any student who graduates from them will not be eligible for licensure.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Alaska
List of Nursing Schools in Alaska
Anchorage, AK
Alaska Pacific University
- Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 128 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Synchronous online classes
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- For licensed RNs seeking advancement
- Flexible for working nurses
Charter College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 19-Month program
- Complete in In as few as two years
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Blended learning format
- NCLEX review included
- Clinical rotation required
- Available in Anchorage, Alaska
University of Alaska Anchorage
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- 120 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
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