Eldean WalterAnchorage, Alaska, is home to a small but significant number of nursing education opportunities. These programs range from associate degrees to doctoral-level study, offering pathways for new students, licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, and advanced practice professionals. Many schools in Anchorage partner with hospitals, clinics, and rural healthcare facilities to ensure students gain practical, hands-on training. With a strong focus on cultural competence and rural healthcare needs, Anchorage’s nursing programs are tailored to the unique demands of healthcare delivery in Alaska .
Top 30 Nursing Schools in Anchorage
1. University of Alaska Anchorage – School of Nursing
The University of Alaska Anchorage offers a wide range of nursing programs, including Associate, Bachelor, and graduate degrees. Students benefit from modern simulation labs, experienced faculty, and strong clinical partnerships with local healthcare providers. The programs prepare graduates to serve in various healthcare settings across Alaska, with a focus on rural and urban health needs. UAA emphasizes community engagement, cultural competence, and high NCLEX pass rates, ensuring graduates are ready for professional practice immediately after completion.
2. Charter College – Anchorage Campus
Charter College in Anchorage provides an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing designed for students seeking to become registered nurses. The program blends online coursework with hands-on lab sessions and supervised clinical rotations. With small class sizes and flexible scheduling, Charter College caters to students balancing education with other responsibilities. The curriculum covers essential nursing concepts, pharmacology, and patient care skills, with a strong emphasis on NCLEX exam preparation. Graduates are equipped to work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
3. Alaska Pacific University – Nursing Program
Alaska Pacific University offers an Associate Degree in Nursing through a cohort-based model, combining classroom instruction, online learning, and clinical practice. The program prepares students to deliver safe, culturally sensitive care to diverse populations, including underserved communities in Alaska. Students gain practical experience in community health, mental health, and medical-surgical nursing. The program includes a capstone course to consolidate skills before graduation. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin professional practice in various healthcare settings.
4. University of Alaska Fairbanks – Community and Technical College
While located in Fairbanks, the University of Alaska Fairbanks provides nursing pathways accessible to Anchorage residents through distance learning and transferable prerequisites. The college offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, beginning with foundational science courses and progressing to advanced clinical skills. Students participate in simulation labs, hospital rotations, and community-based experiences. The program focuses on preparing nurses for both urban and rural healthcare environments, making it a strong choice for those interested in serving diverse populations across Alaska.
5. Prince William Sound College – UAA Partnership Program
Prince William Sound College in Valdez offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing through its partnership with the University of Alaska Anchorage. Students can complete coursework online or in hybrid formats, while attending in-person labs and clinical placements in their local area. This arrangement allows Anchorage residents to participate in the program without relocating. The curriculum includes anatomy, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, and patient care skills, preparing graduates for the NCLEX exam and entry-level nursing roles in the state.
6. UAA RN-to-BSN Completion Program
For registered nurses seeking to advance their education, the University of Alaska Anchorage offers an RN-to-BSN program. This flexible, primarily online program allows working nurses to complete their bachelor’s degree while maintaining employment. Courses focus on leadership, research, community health, and evidence-based practice. Students develop skills for advanced clinical roles, education, and management positions. The program also emphasizes Alaska’s unique healthcare challenges, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to both local and statewide healthcare systems.
7. UAA Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
The Master of Science in Nursing at UAA includes a Family Nurse Practitioner track for registered nurses aiming to expand their scope of practice. The program blends online coursework with on-campus intensives and clinical rotations in family practice settings. Students learn advanced health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning across the lifespan. Graduates are prepared for national certification and can serve as primary care providers in clinics, hospitals, and community health centers across Alaska.
8. UAA Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
UAA offers a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track for nurses seeking advanced practice roles in mental health care. The program includes coursework in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic interventions. Clinical rotations take place in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can provide mental health services in a variety of settings, addressing Alaska’s need for psychiatric care providers. The program accommodates working professionals through a mix of online and in-person requirements.
9. UAA Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
The University of Alaska Anchorage offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree for nurses seeking the highest level of clinical education. The program prepares graduates to lead in advanced practice, healthcare policy, and systems improvement. Students complete clinical residencies, evidence-based practice projects, and leadership training. The curriculum emphasizes improving healthcare outcomes, particularly in rural and underserved areas of Alaska. The DNP is offered in a hybrid format, allowing nurses to continue working while pursuing their degree.
10. Alaska Technical Center – Health Sciences Pathway
The Alaska Technical Center, based in Kotzebue but accessible to Anchorage residents through distance learning, offers foundational health sciences programs that prepare students for nursing studies. Courses include anatomy, medical terminology, and basic patient care skills. These programs provide an entry point for students interested in later enrolling in associate or bachelor-level nursing programs. Graduates gain a strong academic base and may enter healthcare support roles while continuing their nursing education.
11. UAA Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at UAA is designed for students seeking to become registered nurses in two years. The program combines classroom learning, lab simulations, and clinical experiences in hospitals and clinics. Coursework covers nursing fundamentals, adult health, pediatrics, and community health. Students graduate prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin entry-level nursing practice. The program’s strong ties to local healthcare facilities provide students with valuable networking and employment opportunities.
12. UAA Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Prelicensure Option
The prelicensure BSN program at UAA is a four-year degree for students entering nursing without prior licensure. The curriculum includes general education, nursing theory, and extensive clinical practice. Students train in modern simulation labs and complete rotations in various healthcare settings, including acute care, pediatrics, and public health. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and are well-prepared for professional nursing roles or advanced study. The program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and cultural competence.
13. Alaska Pacific University – Nursing Bridge Pathways
Alaska Pacific University offers bridge pathways for students with prior healthcare experience, such as licensed practical nurses or certified nursing assistants, who wish to become registered nurses. These programs grant credit for previous education and experience, allowing for faster completion. Students complete core nursing courses, clinical requirements, and NCLEX preparation. The bridge pathways are ideal for those seeking career advancement while continuing to work in healthcare. Flexible scheduling and hybrid learning formats support working adults.
14. UAA Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Exit Option
Within UAA’s associate degree program, students have the option to exit early with a Licensed Practical Nurse qualification after completing specific coursework and clinical hours. This pathway allows students to enter the workforce sooner while continuing their education toward a registered nurse credential. The LPN exit option is beneficial for students needing immediate employment, as it provides practical skills for long-term care, rehabilitation, and outpatient settings. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam.
15. Charter College – Practical Nursing Certificate
Charter College offers a Practical Nursing certificate program for students seeking to become licensed practical nurses in a shorter time frame. The program can be completed in as little as 12 months and includes coursework in anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care, along with clinical training. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam and begin working in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. The practical nursing certificate serves as a stepping stone to higher-level nursing degrees.
16. UAA Nurse Educator Track – Master of Science in Nursing
The University of Alaska Anchorage offers a Nurse Educator track within its MSN program for nurses seeking to teach in academic or clinical settings. The curriculum includes advanced health assessment, teaching strategies, curriculum design, and educational technology. Students complete a teaching practicum and develop the skills needed to prepare future nurses. Graduates often work in nursing schools, hospitals, and community education programs, helping to address the nursing faculty shortage in Alaska and nationwide.
17. Providence Alaska Medical Center – Nurse Residency Program
Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage offers a nurse residency program for newly graduated nurses. This structured program supports the transition from student to professional nurse through mentorship, clinical skills development, and specialty rotations. Residents gain experience in areas such as medical-surgical nursing, critical care, and maternal-child health. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient safety, and professional growth. Successful completion enhances competence and confidence, preparing participants for long-term careers in hospital-based nursing.
18. Alaska Native Medical Center – Nurse Training Pathways
The Alaska Native Medical Center provides training and mentorship for nursing students and recent graduates, particularly those interested in serving Alaska Native populations. Participants gain hands-on experience in culturally competent care, community health, and chronic disease management. The center partners with nursing schools to provide clinical placements, giving students exposure to diverse patient populations. These pathways prepare nurses for roles in rural health, primary care, and public health while supporting Alaska’s healthcare workforce needs.
19. UAA Post-Master’s Certificate – Family Nurse Practitioner
For nurses who already hold a master’s degree, UAA offers a post-master’s certificate in the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty. This program provides the additional coursework and clinical hours necessary for national certification. Students learn advanced clinical decision-making, primary care management, and preventive health strategies for all ages. The flexible schedule accommodates working professionals, and clinical rotations are arranged across Alaska to meet learning objectives and address primary care shortages in underserved communities.
20. UAA Post-Master’s Certificate – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
The post-master’s certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health at UAA is designed for advanced practice nurses who wish to expand into mental health care. The curriculum covers psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment. Students complete supervised clinical hours in outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings. The program prepares graduates for national certification and equips them to address Alaska’s mental health care challenges, including services in remote areas and for culturally diverse populations.
21. Alaska Regional Hospital – Clinical Nurse Fellowship
Alaska Regional Hospital offers a clinical nurse fellowship program for both new graduates and experienced nurses transitioning to new specialties. Fellows receive mentorship, specialty training, and hands-on experience in areas such as intensive care, emergency medicine, and perioperative nursing. The program emphasizes professional development, patient-centered care, and teamwork. By combining classroom learning with clinical practice, the fellowship helps nurses build confidence and competence in their chosen specialty while meeting hospital staffing needs.
22. Elmendorf Air Force Base – Military Nursing Opportunities
Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage offers nursing career opportunities for active-duty and reserve nurses. Military nurses provide care to service members, their families, and veterans in clinics and hospitals. Nurses receive ongoing training, leadership development, and opportunities to work in diverse medical environments. This pathway includes benefits such as advanced education funding, competitive salaries, and travel opportunities. It is ideal for those interested in serving their country while pursuing a nursing career.
23. UAA DNP – Executive Leadership Track
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at UAA includes an executive leadership track for nurses aiming to lead healthcare organizations. Coursework covers healthcare policy, financial management, strategic planning, and organizational leadership. Students complete a doctoral project focused on improving healthcare outcomes or systems. The hybrid format allows professionals to maintain employment while studying. Graduates are prepared for executive roles in hospitals, public health agencies, and nonprofit organizations throughout Alaska and beyond.
24. Alaska Psychiatric Institute – Nursing Internship Program
The Alaska Psychiatric Institute in Anchorage offers internships for nursing students and recent graduates interested in mental health care. Participants work alongside experienced psychiatric nurses, gaining skills in patient assessment, crisis intervention, and therapeutic communication. The program emphasizes safe, respectful care for patients with acute psychiatric conditions. This experience prepares nurses for roles in behavioral health facilities, correctional health, and community-based mental health programs across Alaska.
25. Southcentral Foundation – Nurse Development Programs
Southcentral Foundation offers nurse development programs that combine training, mentorship, and continuing education for nurses working in Alaska Native and American Indian healthcare settings. These programs focus on relationship-based care, cultural sensitivity, and preventive health strategies. Nurses gain experience in primary care, chronic disease management, and health education. The foundation supports career advancement through tuition assistance and specialty certification preparation, helping nurses build long-term careers in community-oriented healthcare.
26. UAA School of Nursing – Rural Nursing Track
The rural nursing track at the University of Alaska Anchorage prepares students for practice in remote and underserved areas. The curriculum addresses the unique challenges of rural healthcare, including limited resources, expanded nurse roles, and community health needs. Students complete clinical rotations in rural communities, gaining firsthand experience in providing comprehensive care with minimal support. This track equips graduates with adaptability and problem-solving skills essential for rural nursing practice.
27. UAA Simulation Center – Specialty Training Modules
UAA’s state-of-the-art simulation center offers specialty training modules for nursing students and practicing nurses. Participants use high-fidelity mannequins and realistic scenarios to develop critical thinking, teamwork, and clinical decision-making skills. The center covers specialties such as obstetrics, pediatrics, emergency care, and critical care. These modules supplement classroom and clinical learning, allowing participants to practice complex procedures and respond to emergencies in a controlled environment.
28. Alaska VA Healthcare System – Nurse Residency and Training
The Alaska VA Healthcare System provides nurse residency and training programs for new graduate nurses interested in serving veterans. Participants gain experience in primary care, geriatrics, rehabilitation, and mental health. The program includes mentorship, professional development workshops, and clinical rotations in various VA facilities. Nurses learn to address the unique health concerns of veterans, including chronic conditions and service-related injuries, while working within a supportive team environment.
29. UAA Continuing Education – Specialty Nursing Certificates
The University of Alaska Anchorage offers continuing education programs that allow nurses to earn specialty certificates in areas such as wound care, critical care, and palliative care. These short-term programs help practicing nurses expand their skills, meet licensure requirements, and stay current with best practices. Courses are offered in flexible formats, including online and weekend intensives, making them accessible to working professionals throughout the state.
30. Alaska Center for Rural Health – Nursing Workforce Initiatives
The Alaska Center for Rural Health works to strengthen the state’s nursing workforce through scholarships, training programs, and partnerships with nursing schools. Initiatives include mentorship for students, rural clinical placement programs, and professional development for practicing nurses. The center focuses on increasing the number of qualified nurses in remote communities, improving access to healthcare, and supporting long-term workforce retention in rural Alaska.
Requirements For These Top Nursing Schools in Anchorage
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum GPA (often 2.5 to 3.0 depending on the program)
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology
- TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or other entrance exam scores
- Proof of immunizations and health clearance
- Current CPR certification for healthcare providers
- Background check and drug screening clearance
Cost of These Top Nursing Schools in Anchorage
- University of Alaska Anchorage AAS Nursing – approximately 8,000 to 10,000 per year for in-state tuition
- University of Alaska Anchorage BSN – approximately 8,500 to 11,000 per year for in-state tuition
- Alaska Pacific University ADN – approximately 12,000 to 14,000 per year
- Charter College AAS Nursing – approximately 28,000 total program cost
- Charter College Practical Nursing Certificate – approximately 24,000 total program cost
- UAA MSN or DNP – approximately 11,000 to 13,500 per year for in-state tuition
Application Process For These Top Nursing Schools in Anchorage
- Research program options and determine eligibility requirements
- Submit an online or paper application by the program’s deadline
- Provide official transcripts from previous schools attended
- Submit entrance exam scores if required (such as TEAS)
- Provide letters of recommendation and a personal statement or essay
- Attend an interview or orientation session if invited
Conclusion
Nursing schools in Anchorage provide a range of educational options for aspiring and practicing nurses, from entry-level certificates to doctoral degrees. These programs combine classroom learning with extensive clinical experience in hospitals, community health centers, and rural healthcare settings. Costs vary depending on the program and institution, but financial aid and scholarships are often available. By meeting admission requirements and following the application process carefully, students can take advantage of high-quality nursing education in a region that values both professional skill and cultural understanding.