Best Nursing Schools in Anchorage, AK 2025 – Accredited Nursing Degree Programs Online

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The Municipality of Anchorage, Alaska, has an estimated population of 287,145 as of July 2022 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2022). It is Alaska’s largest city, with almost 40% of the state’s population. Anchorage and its neighboring Matanuska-Susitna Borough make up the Anchorage metropolitan area, which has a population of 400,470. Anchorage’s size warrants the presence of skilled healthcare professionals and reliable medical facilities that would cater to the population’s healthcare needs.

If you are considering a nursing career in Anchorage, this nursing degree guide will help you get started. Our team of experts at Research.com looked into the top nursing schools in Anchorage, AK, and created a list of the best online nursing programs they are offering.

Best Nursing Schools in Anchorage, AK 2025 Table of Contents

1. The State of Nursing in Anchorage, AK
2. Why Become a Nurse in Anchorage, AK
3. Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in Anchorage, AK for 2025
4. List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in Anchorage, AK for 2025
5. Best Advanced Nursing Programs in Anchorage, AK for 2025
6. Alternative to Online Nursing Programs in Anchorage
7. Advanced Nursing Career Pathways in Anchorage
8. What are the financial considerations for nursing education in Anchorage, AK?
9. Is it challenging to succeed in an online RN to BSN program?
10. How can you enhance your nursing credentials while working?
11. What Are the Admission Requirements for Nursing Programs in Anchorage, AK?
12. How Can an Associate Degree Lead to a Nurse Practitioner Role?
13. What Are the Benefits of Exploring Diverse Nursing Education Pathways?
14. Is an Online FNP Program a Cost-Effective Option?
15. Are DNP Programs a Valuable Investment for Anchorage Nurses?
16. Unique Challenges for Nurses in Anchorage, AK
17. How Does Accreditation and Clinical Partnership Affect Nursing Program Quality in Anchorage, AK?

The State of Nursing in Anchorage, AK

According to the Alaska Hospital & Healthcare Association’s Healthcare Workforce Analysis 2022 (AHWA), healthcare has become the state’s most important economic sector, being responsible for 12% of all workforce earnings and with nearly 43,000 annual average healthcare jobs in 2021. However, there still aren’t enough workers to fill Alaska’s current demand for healthcare services. Job vacancies are increasing, with a 24% vacancy rate for registered nurses alone in Alaska hospitals. This vacancy rate is even higher in nursing homes.

While there are several nursing schools in Anchorage, AK, and nearby areas, the state has been dealing with a shortage of nurses and nursing assistants since the start of the pandemic. To address their staffing needs, medical facilities hire traveling nurses. However, this solution comes at a higher cost. According to the AHWA report, travel nurses in the state earned 77% more on average in November 2022 than non-traveling RNs.

As such, the reliance on out-of-state workers is not economically sustainable in the long run. So, the only way to address this shortage sustainably is to give Alaskans the proper education and training to join the healthcare workforce and fill the nursing vacancies themselves.
After all, nursing schools in Alaska do fairly well in the National Council Licensure Examination. In 2022, the state’s NCLEX pass rate was 89.3%, higher than the 79.9% national average pass rate.

Why Become a Nurse in Anchorage, AK

There are several reasons why pursuing nursing jobs in Anchorage, AK, is a good idea. For one, healthcare providers in Alaska have repeatedly adjusted nurses’ wages to attract and retain workers. As a result, overall wages have significantly increased and Alaska is now one of the country’s top-paying states for registered nurses.

More specifically, RNs in Alaska earn an annual mean wage of $103,310 (BLS, 2023). And in Anchorage, registered nurses earn an average of $103,150, or $49.59 per hour. Both figures are higher than the country’s annual mean wage for RNs, which is $89,010.

As for nurse practitioners (NPs), they are paid an annual mean wage of $125,100 or $60.14 per hour in Anchorage and an annual mean wage of $116,390 in Alaska (BLS, 2023). The national annual mean wage for NPs is $124,680.

Meanwhile, licensed practical or licensed vocational nurses (LPNs or LVNs) earn an average of $65,770 annually or $31.62 per hour in Anchorage and $66,710 annually in Alaska. Both annual mean wage figures exceed the national average of $55,860.

Another good reason is the wide variety of nursing programs and nursing degrees in Anchorage, AK. There are programs for certified nurse assistants (CNAs), practical nurses, registered nurses, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), nurse practitioners, nurse educators, nurse administrators, and clinical nurse specialists. For instance, RNs who hold an associate degree may find affordable RN to BSN online schools to boost their credentials and expand their roles. You can plan your own career path and pick from various concentrations and specialty career choices for nurses, depending on the type of patients you want to serve and the kind of setting you want to work in.

You can work in hospitals, nursing homes and elderly communities, residential care, outpatient care centers, mental health and substance abuse facilities, private clinics and physicians’ offices, ambulatory care, and even in nursing schools in Anchorage, AK.

What additional resources are available for nursing students in Anchorage, AK?

To further support nursing students in Anchorage, several additional resources can enhance their educational experience and career readiness.

• Student Organizations: Joining nursing student organizations, such as the Student Nurses Association, provides networking opportunities, professional development, and peer support.
• Internship Programs: Local healthcare facilities may offer internship programs to give nursing students real-world experience and practical skills before graduation.
• Workshops and Seminars: Universities and nursing schools frequently host workshops on topics like clinical skills, mental health awareness, and leadership in healthcare, helping students stay informed and prepared.
• Online Resources and Communities: Access to online forums and communities can connect nursing students with experienced professionals for guidance, advice, and mentorship.
• Counseling and Support Services: Academic and mental health support services are available at educational institutions to assist nursing students in managing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• Job Fairs and Networking Events: Attending local job fairs and networking events can help students connect with potential employers and learn about job openings in Anchorage’s healthcare sector.

Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in Anchorage, AK for 2025

Research.com experts looked into the top nursing schools in Anchorage, AK, that offer entry-level nursing programs. These include associate degree in nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), CNA, and LPN schools online.

Unfortunately, while several schools are offering on-campus entry-level nursing programs, there are very limited online nursing programs in Anchorage, AK. In fact, only one made it to our list:

Charter College: ADN

Charter College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing that would prepare students for an entry-level position as registered nurses. This program is not entirely online, though. It adopts a blended learning delivery method, which means a combination of online and classroom learning, to give students the flexibility to balance their coursework, job, family, and other commitments. Students must also complete clinical rotations at a clinic, hospital, or healthcare agency in the region.

This program can be completed in 19 months. It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Charter College boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate.

List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in Anchorage, AK for 2025

There aren’t many traditional or on-campus bridge nursing programs such as CNA to LPN, RN to BSN, RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and LPN to RN programs in Anchorage, AK. So, looking for one that is offered online is even more difficult.

We’ve also looked for accelerated nursing programs in Anchorage, AK, or nursing programs for non-nurses in Anchorage, AK—mostly programs designed for those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. However, none are being offered online.

Our search for good online bridge nursing programs led us to only one school:

University of Alaska Anchorage: RN to BSN

University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) School of Nursing offers some of the best nursing programs in Anchorage, AK. It has an RN to BSN program for those who already hold an RN license in Alaska and want to earn a bachelor’s degree. This program features online courses and sections designed to build on an RN’s basic preparation and experience and facilitate the student’s progress.

The program requires students to maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.00 and complete major courses with a minimum grade of C to graduate. A minimum of 120 credits is also required to earn their BSN.

This program is accredited by ACEN.

Best Advanced Nursing Programs in Anchorage, AK for 2025

Our team looked into nursing schools in Anchorage, AK, that offer advanced nursing programs, including MSN, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DPN), Post-Master’s Certificate, and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD in Nursing). However, we found that only one offers such programs online.

University of Alaska Anchorage: MSN

UAA offers the best nurse practitioner programs online in the state of Alaska.

It offers MSN programs that primarily emphasize advanced professional nursing practice, research, theory, and healthcare delivery systems. UAA’s MSN program allows students to pick a specialized practice focus in family nurse practitioner (FNP), psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), or nursing leadership (NLDR) with a concentration in education (NLDR-EDU).

The NLDR option can be completed online, with asynchronous or synchronous classes. The FNP and PMHNP majors, meanwhile, have hybrid formats, where core and some specialty courses are entirely done online, and clinical courses and physical assessments are done either online or face-to-face, usually requiring two campus visits per trimester.

UAA’s MSN programs are accredited by ACEN.

Alternatives to Online Nursing Programs in Anchorage

Since there are very limited online nursing schools in Anchorage, the alternative would be to go for a traditional or on-campus nursing program either within the city or in neighboring areas.

You can check out entry-level registered nursing programs in Anchorage, AK, or in other towns that are offered in-person or on-campus by these schools:

• University of Alaska Anchorage: BSN, ADN
• Alaska Pacific University: ADN
• University of Alaska Fairbanks Community & Technical College: BSN

You can also check out these entry-level nursing diploma or certificate programs:

• Alaska Middle College School: CNA
• University of Alaska Anchorage: CNA
• University of Alaska Fairbanks: CNA
• University of Alaska Southeast: CNA
• University of Alaska Fairbanks Community & Technical College: CNA, LPN

Another alternative would be to go for online schools outside the state. The problem, however, is that most nursing programs would require clinical training and some in-person or on-campus sessions. This means you will have to travel by air.

Advanced Nursing Career Pathways in Anchorage

For registered nurses (RNs) in Anchorage, advancing your career through higher education can open up a range of rewarding opportunities. Beyond traditional nursing roles, there are several advanced practice nursing (APN) pathways that offer both greater responsibility and higher earning potential. Below are some of the most popular advanced nursing roles and the programs that can help you get there, including online BSN to FNP programs.

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner is one of the most sought-after career advancements for registered nurses. FNPs provide primary and specialty care to patients of all ages, diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing patient care.
• Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are highly trained to provide anesthesia care for surgeries and other medical procedures. This role requires advanced training and education beyond an RN license, typically through a Master’s or Doctoral program in nurse anesthesia.
• Nurse Midwife (CNM): Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) specialize in prenatal, labor, and postnatal care, along with reproductive health and family planning. Nurses who want to pursue this path must earn an MSN or DNP in nurse-midwifery.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Clinical Nurse Specialists are expert nurses who specialize in specific areas of patient care, such as oncology, cardiology, or pediatric nursing. CNSs provide leadership and consultative services, improving care delivery in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
• Nurse Educator: Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) specialize in prenatal, labor, and postnatal care, along with reproductive health and family planning. Nurses who want to pursue this path must earn an MSN or DNP in nurse-midwifery.

What are the financial considerations for nursing education in Anchorage, AK?

Prospective nursing students in Anchorage should examine all cost components before committing to a program. Expenses may encompass tuition, registration and application fees, clinical placement costs, and materials such as textbooks and uniforms. Evaluating each program’s cost structure—including options for hybrid or online delivery—can reveal opportunities to mitigate expenses while maintaining high-quality education. Investigating scholarship offerings, grants, and flexible payment plans can further ease the financial burden. For a detailed cost analysis and practical tips on managing educational expenses, refer to how much is nursing school.

Is it challenging to succeed in an online RN to BSN program?

Online RN to BSN programs vary in course intensity and structure, requiring strong self-discipline and effective time management. Evaluating a program’s support services, curriculum rigor, and flexibility can help professionals determine if an online pathway aligns with their career goals. Researching performance metrics and peer testimonials also offers insights into program expectations; for instance, review how hard are RN to BSN online programs to understand common challenges and success strategies.

How can you enhance your nursing credentials while working?

Balancing work and further education can be a rewarding but challenging endeavor for nurses in Anchorage seeking to enhance their credentials. Fortunately, there are actionable steps and flexible program options available to help advance your qualifications without compromising your current position.

• Explore Part-Time Programs: Many universities and nursing schools in Anchorage, such as the University of Alaska Anchorage, offer part-time options for advanced nursing degrees like RN to BSN or MSN programs. These allow you to manage your work and studies simultaneously.
• Choose Online and Hybrid Programs: Programs like the easiest LPN program are an excellent alternative if you're looking for a streamlined option to advance your career. Online and hybrid courses offer the flexibility to complete coursework at your convenience, enabling you to balance professional and personal responsibilities.
• Gain Specializations: Consider enrolling in specialized certifications or post-master's programs to enhance your expertise in areas like family nurse practitioner (FNP) or psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), which are in demand nationwide.
• Take Advantage of Employer Support: Many healthcare institutions in Anchorage provide tuition assistance or reimbursement programs to encourage their staff to pursue higher education. Inquire with your employer about professional development opportunities.
• Leverage Scholarships and Grants: Anchorage offers unique scholarship opportunities targeted at addressing the local nursing shortage, which can provide financial relief as you pursue additional qualifications.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Nursing Programs in Anchorage, AK?

Nursing programs in Anchorage commonly require applicants to meet academic prerequisites, including a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of science courses such as biology, anatomy, or physiology. Programs may also mandate a competitive GPA and standardized test scores or entrance exam results. In addition, applicants typically need to submit a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and proof of any relevant healthcare experience. For those considering online pathways, it is important to evaluate both academic rigor and program structure, as detailed in how hard are RN to BSN online programs. Each institution sets its own deadlines and may include interviews or additional assessments, so reviewing the official guidelines of each school is essential for a competitive application.

How Can an Associate Degree Lead to a Nurse Practitioner Role?

Nurses can accelerate their journey to advanced practice by leveraging bridge programs that convert an associate degree into a nurse practitioner qualification. These programs provide targeted coursework and clinical training designed to complement existing hands-on experience. They offer a streamlined pathway that minimizes time and cost compared to traditional degree routes while maintaining rigorous standards of clinical competence and academic excellence. For more details on this pathway, review the associates to NP program. This focused approach enables nurses to transition smoothly into roles that demand advanced diagnostic and patient management skills, thereby expanding professional opportunities in diverse healthcare settings.

What Are the Benefits of Exploring Diverse Nursing Education Pathways?

Expanding your educational horizons beyond local offerings can provide fresh perspectives and access to innovative training models. Diverse nursing programs often emphasize culturally responsive care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and unique scholarship opportunities that can enhance career growth. For example, exploring resources at the top HBCU nursing programs may introduce you to alternative curricula, mentorship networks, and research initiatives designed to address healthcare disparities. This broadened scope can complement the robust local programs, ultimately strengthening your professional profile with a wider array of clinical and academic experiences.

Is an Online FNP Program a Cost-Effective Option?

Evaluating online Family Nurse Practitioner pathways is critical for candidates weighing financial commitments against long-term career benefits. Online FNP programs can reduce costs typically associated with traditional on-campus education, including commuting, housing, and ancillary fees, while offering flexible scheduling that can facilitate continued employment. Applicants should carefully assess tuition structures, available scholarships, and hidden costs related to clinical placements. Reputable institutions often provide transparent cost breakdowns, enabling a clear comparison of investment versus expected salary increments and career advancement opportunities. For detailed information on tuition metrics and funding options, refer to the average cost of FNP program.

Are DNP Programs a Valuable Investment for Anchorage Nurses?

Anchorage nurses seeking to advance clinical leadership and drive healthcare innovation may find a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree to be a strategic choice. This advanced degree builds on clinical expertise to emphasize evidence-based practice, health policy, and system-level improvement—an ideal match for professionals in regions where patient needs are both diverse and complex. DNP programs offer a pathway to broaden one’s scope of practice in areas such as quality improvement, care coordination, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, flexible online formats can help experienced nurses manage professional and personal commitments while pursuing advanced credentials. For those looking for efficient, career-accelerating options, consider exploring fastest DNP programs online.

Unique Challenges for Nurses in Anchorage, AK

Nurses in Anchorage face a range of unique challenges that stem from the city's remote location and diverse population. The rugged geography and climate of Alaska often make it difficult for patients, particularly those in rural areas, to access consistent medical care. This geographic isolation highlights the essential role nurses play in bridging care gaps, particularly through innovative approaches like telehealth, which is increasingly essential in serving communities scattered across vast, hard-to-reach areas.

In addition to logistical challenges, nurses in Anchorage must provide culturally sensitive care to a diverse patient population, which includes Alaska Native communities with specific health concerns and cultural practices. Understanding these nuances is crucial for delivering effective and respectful care, making cultural competence a vital skill for all healthcare professionals in the region.

Moreover, the significant nursing shortage in Anchorage adds pressure to existing staff, sometimes leading to higher workloads and longer hours. For those seeking advanced qualifications without relocating, exploring online AGNP programs can provide a flexible and accessible solution.

Despite these challenges, working in Anchorage offers substantial career benefits, including opportunities to develop advanced problem-solving skills and take on leadership roles in addressing community health disparities. For nurses seeking a dynamic and impactful career, Anchorage provides an unmatched opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of a diverse and underserved population.

Study Nursing in Alaska and Reap the Rewards

Pursuing a nursing degree in one of the nursing schools in Anchorage, AK has many benefits. Aside from being able to land a position quickly after graduation and the prospect of high earnings, both of which are due to the nursing shortage, you can also enjoy nursing scholarships in Anchorage, AK. Because Alaska needs nurses, especially in underserved rural areas, it is easy to find lucrative scholarship opportunities. Some of these scholarships carry a high monetary value that comes with a service obligation, wherein you will be required to work in a high-need area within a specific amount of time.

You can also go for the best online nursing programs out of state, earn your degree, and work in Anchorage or other parts of Alaska. Similarly, you can pursue the cheapest online MSN programs which not only improve your skills and abilities but also qualify you for more advanced roles, helping you improve the health of Alaska’s greater population.

Key Insights

• High Demand for Nurses: Anchorage, Alaska faces a significant nursing shortage, with a 24% vacancy rate for registered nurses, highlighting the urgent need for more healthcare professionals.
• Competitive Salaries: Registered nurses in Anchorage earn an average annual wage of $103,150, significantly higher than the national average of $89,010. Nurse practitioners and licensed practical nurses also enjoy higher-than-average salaries.
• Educational Opportunities: Anchorage offers various nursing programs, including ADN, BSN, MSN, and RN to BSN programs. University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) and Charter College are notable institutions providing these programs, some of which are available online or in hybrid formats.
• Sustainability in Workforce: Reliance on travel nurses in Alaska is not sustainable due to the high cost. Instead, training local residents through nursing programs is seen as a more sustainable solution to the nursing shortage.
• High NCLEX Pass Rates: Nursing schools in Alaska boast a high NCLEX pass rate of 89.3%, compared to the national average of 79.9%, indicating strong educational standards.

What Are the Career Outcomes for Anchorage Nursing Graduates?

Nursing programs in Anchorage, AK, demonstrate strong career outcomes, with graduates benefiting from well-established partnerships between academic institutions and local healthcare providers. These programs emphasize rigorous clinical training and direct exposure to diverse patient care environments, factors that contribute to higher job placement rates and early career advancement. Employers consistently value the practical experience and regional familiarity that local graduates bring, reinforcing their competitive edge in the job market. For professionals weighing further education options, understanding factors such as curriculum rigor, support services, and workload expectations—how hard are RN to BSN online programs—is essential for aligning educational choices with long-term career goals.

How Does Accreditation and Clinical Partnership Affect Nursing Program Quality in Anchorage, AK?

Accreditation serves as a benchmark for educational excellence, ensuring that nursing programs adhere to rigorous academic standards and offer a curriculum reflective of current healthcare practices. In Anchorage, programs with recognized accreditation not only validate the quality of instruction but also foster strong clinical partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare facilities, providing hands-on experience and facilitating a smoother transition into the workforce. Evaluating these collaborative ties can help prospective students identify programs that continually adapt to industry demands and enhance job placement opportunities. For insights on program selectivity and quality comparisons, consider reviewing the easiest nursing school to get into.

FAQ

What is the average salary for registered nurses in Anchorage, Alaska?

Registered nurses in Anchorage earn an average annual salary of $103,150, or $49.59 per hour, which is significantly higher than the national average of $89,010.

What are the top nursing schools in Anchorage, AK?

Notable nursing schools in Anchorage include the University of Alaska Anchorage and Charter College, both of which offer various nursing programs such as ADN, BSN, MSN, and RN to BSN programs.

Are there online nursing programs available in Anchorage, AK?

Yes, the University of Alaska Anchorage offers an online RN to BSN program and MSN programs with online options for some specializations. Charter College offers a blended ADN program that combines online coursework with in-person clinical rotations.

What is the NCLEX pass rate for nursing schools in Alaska?

The NCLEX pass rate for nursing schools in Alaska is 89.3%, higher than the national average of 79.9%.

Why is there a high demand for nurses in Anchorage?

The high demand for nurses in Anchorage is due to a significant nursing shortage, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The state has a 24% vacancy rate for registered nurses, particularly in hospitals and nursing homes.

What are the benefits of pursuing a nursing career in Anchorage, AK?

Benefits include high earning potential, various educational opportunities, and the ability to quickly find employment due to the nursing shortage. Additionally, there are nursing scholarships available to help with educational expenses.

What bridge programs are available for nurses in Anchorage?

The University of Alaska Anchorage offers an RN to BSN program for those holding an RN license who wish to earn a bachelor’s degree. This program is available online and is designed to build on the RN’s existing knowledge and experience.

Are there any alternatives to online nursing programs in Anchorage?

Alternatives include traditional on-campus nursing programs offered by institutions such as the University of Alaska Anchorage, Alaska Pacific University, and University of Alaska Fairbanks. Additionally, students can consider online nursing programs from out-of-state schools, though these may require some in-person clinical training.

What financial aid options are available for nursing students in Anchorage?

Nursing students in Anchorage can apply for various scholarships, including those specifically aimed at addressing the nursing shortage in Alaska. Additionally, federal and state financial aid programs are available to eligible students.

What are the career prospects for nurse practitioners in Anchorage?

Nurse practitioners in Anchorage earn an average annual wage of $125,100 and have excellent job prospects due to the high demand for advanced practice nurses in the region.

What unique challenges and opportunities do nurses face working in Anchorage, AK?

Nurses in Anchorage, AK, encounter unique challenges and opportunities stemming from the region's remote and diverse environment. The vast and rugged terrain can make accessing healthcare facilities difficult, requiring nurses to be flexible and resourceful. They often work with a wide range of patients, including Native Alaskan populations, which necessitates cultural competence and tailored care approaches. The opportunities include participating in community health programs, providing critical care in underserved areas, and using telehealth technologies to extend their reach. The distinctive setting of Anchorage enables nurses to develop a versatile skill set and play a crucial role in improving the overall health of the community.

References:

• United States Census Bureau. (2022). QuickFacts | Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska; Anchorage Municipality (County), Alaska; Anchorage municipality, Alaska. U.S. Census.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 | 29-1141 Registered Nurses. BLS.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 | 29-1171 Nurse Practitioners. BLS.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 | 29-2061 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. BLS.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 | 31-1131 Nursing Assistants. BLS.