Alaska Pacific University
The Vibe Check
Alaska Pacific University feels like an intimate, close-knit community where the rugged spirit of the Last Frontier meets rigorous academics. With tiny class sizes and a focus on outdoor leadership, the campus vibe is collaborative, adventurous, and deeply connected to the unique Alaskan environment. It’s a place where you know your professors by name and your classmates become your expedition partners.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
APU excels in applied and experiential learning, particularly in Health Professions, Outdoor Studies, and Business, leveraging its unique location for hands-on research and internships. The small enrollment ensures highly personalized attention from faculty who are often leaders in their fields, fostering a mentorship-heavy academic environment. While research opportunities are robust, they are often tailored to the specific challenges and opportunities of the Alaskan ecosystem.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Anchorage
Anchorage offers a unique blend of urban amenities and unparalleled outdoor access, making it a paradise for students who love adventure. Students spend weekends hiking in the Chugach Mountains, skiing at nearby resorts, kayaking on local lakes, or exploring the city's vibrant cultural scene, including museums, live music, and a growing foodie culture. In winter, the aurora borealis and dog sledding become part of the campus experience.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($54,271):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a safe, residential area of Anchorage, with low crime rates on campus itself. Anchorage is generally safe, but like any urban area, students should practice typical city safety precautions, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty
- ✓ Unique access to outdoor leadership and experiential learning opportunities
- ✓ Flat tuition rate for all students, making it financially predictable
- ✓ Strong focus on applied majors like Health Professions and Business
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation and retention rates compared to national averages
- ✗ Anchorage's remote location can feel isolating for some students
- ✗ Limited campus life and student activities compared to larger universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Alaska Pacific University is known for its strong emphasis on experiential and outdoor education, particularly in fields like Outdoor Studies, Environmental Science, and Health Professions. Its small size fosters a close-knit community where students receive personalized attention and have unique opportunities for hands-on learning and research in the Alaskan wilderness.
No, Alaska Pacific University is not highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 86.21%. This open admissions policy suggests that the university is accessible to a broad range of applicants. While meeting the academic benchmarks is important, the university also values a student's fit and passion for its unique programs.
Campus life at APU is intimate and community-focused, with a total enrollment of only about 400 students. Students often form strong bonds through small classes and shared outdoor adventures, taking advantage of Anchorage's proximity to mountains, trails, and water. While there are fewer traditional college events, the campus culture is built around collaborative learning and exploring the natural environment.
For the right student, APU can be a worthwhile investment. The average net price of $18,976 is significantly lower than the national average for private institutions, and the 10-year median earnings of $54,271 are competitive. However, the value depends heavily on the student's ability to leverage the unique experiential learning opportunities and complete their degree, given the lower graduation rate.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 567
- In-State Tuition $20,760
- Zip Code 99508
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of under $19,000 and equal tuition for in-state and out-of-state students, APU presents a financially accessible option for a private college education. The 10-year median earnings of $54,271 are solid, especially considering the lower cost of attendance, suggesting a reasonable return on investment. However, the lower graduation and retention rates mean students must be proactive to ensure they complete their degree on time and maximize its value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.