Engineering Schools in Alaska

Considering studying engineering in Alaska? You’re making a smart choice.

In this article, we spotlight the top engineering schools in Alaska—highlighting their unique offerings, faculty expertise, and hands-on learning opportunities.

Whether you’re aiming for a career in Arctic Engineering or Electrical Engineering, these institutions provide the foundation you need to succeed.

Let’s explore what makes each school stand out.

University of Alaska Fairbanks – Engineering Programs

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) offers a top-notch education for those aspiring to excel in engineering. Strategically located across multiple campuses, including Fairbanks, Kotzebue, Bethel, Nome, and Dillingham, UAF provides a rich and diverse academic environment. The institution is highly committed to quality education, proven by its inclusion in the Times Higher Education’s 2023 Impact Rankings.

Key Features of UAF:

• Diverse Engineering Majors: Choose from Civil, Computer, Electrical, Geological, Mechanical, Mining, and Petroleum Engineering.
• Research Opportunities: Collaborate with leading academics on groundbreaking projects.
• Inclusive Community: Enjoy a 11:1 student-faculty ratio and a culturally rich environment with a special acknowledgment of Indigenous cultures.
• Flexible Learning: Opt for online bachelor degrees if you cannot attend in person.

UAF stands out for its significant contribution to engineering education in Alaska, ensuring that students receive ample opportunities to excel in their fields.

University of Alaska Fairbanks – Engineering Programs

For detailed information on various engineering programs, visit Types of Engineering Degrees. Established in 1940, UAF offers an array of accredited programs:

Specializations Offered:

• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Geological Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering

The rigorous academic standards are maintained through accreditation by the Engineering Accreditation Commission and the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. Through this, UAF assures students of top-quality education.

Program Highlights:

• Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees: Supports bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate levels.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from industry leaders and experts.
• Competitive Admissions: Reflects high academic standards.
• Online Arctic Engineering: Offers an online licensing class compliant with state regulations.

UAF is recognized for producing the highest number of bachelor’s degrees in engineering within the state, making it a leading institution for aspiring engineers.

University of Alaska Fairbanks – Institute of Northern Engineering

The Institute of Northern Engineering (INE) at UAF serves as the research arm of the College of Engineering and Mines. Renowned for its expertise in cold climate science and engineering, INE provides practical solutions for industries operating in cold regions globally.

Research Focuses:

• Energy Production
• Mechanical Systems Testing
• Environmental Engineering
• Arctic Infrastructure
• Mining and Petroleum Development
• Hydrology

Unique Features:

• Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaborate across various fields.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Includes the Arctic Infrastructure Development Center, Mineral Industry Research Laboratory, and Petroleum Development Laboratory.
• Hands-On Experience: Engage in regular laboratory and fieldwork for practical learning.
• Strong Funding Base: Annual external grant and research support exceed $20 million.

INE’s close collaboration with academic units allows for a seamless integration of research outcomes into engineering curricula. This not only enhances learning experiences but also ensures that students gain the practical skills in high demand in the job market.

If you wish to know more about INE’s offerings and how they can elevate your engineering education, visit their website.

University of Alaska Fairbanks – Civil Engineering Master’s Program

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) offers a Master’s Program in Civil Engineering, providing specialized knowledge in key areas. This program requires a minimum of 30 credits and offers both thesis and project options, ensuring flexibility for your career goals.

Key Concentrations:

• Arctic Engineering: Focuses on topics like Permafrost Engineering and Sea Ice Engineering.
• Design and Construction Management: Enhances your leadership and business communication skills for managing large-scale projects.
• Environmental Engineering: Includes advanced topics like Aquatic Chemistry.
• Geotechnical Engineering: Covers essential areas such as Pavement Design and Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering.
• Structural Engineering: Includes critical courses on Foundations and Retaining Structures.
• Transportation Engineering: Provides insights into the planning and operation of transportation systems.
• Water Resources Engineering: Offers advanced coursework in Groundwater Hydrology and Sediment Transport.

Program Requirements:

• Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree in engineering or natural sciences.
• GRE Waiver: Possible for students with a 3.0 GPA or higher from an ABET-accredited undergraduate program.
• Core Competencies: Emphasis on technical expertise and effective communication, both written and verbal.

Considering the civil engineering master’s program at UAF allows students to delve deep into specialized fields and sets a solid foundation for a successful engineering career. For more details, visit the official UAF Civil Engineering Master’s Program page.

University of Alaska Fairbanks – Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering

The Bachelor’s program in Electrical Engineering at UAF offers a rich curriculum designed to develop proficiency across various electrical and computer engineering fields. This program requires 125 credits for graduation, ensuring a comprehensive education.

Core Courses:

• Introduction to Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Electric Circuits
• Digital Systems Design
• Circuit Theory
• Electric Power Systems
• Engineering Electromagnetics
• Embedded Systems Design

Electives:

• Electronic Circuit Design
• Power Systems Analysis
• Advanced Communications Systems
• Power Electronics Design

Graduation Requirements:

• Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: A mandatory requirement overseen by the State of Alaska.
• Grade Requirement: A minimum grade of C- in each course to ensure academic excellence.

The program maintains a balance between theory and practical application, offering guidance from experienced faculty and resources such as libraries, academic advising, and career services. To learn more, visit the UAF Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering page.

Choosing the Right Engineering School in Alaska

Selecting the best engineering school in Alaska involves several critical considerations. Here’s a structured guide to aid your decision-making process:

Key Factors to Consider:

• Accreditation: Ensures the program meets high-quality standards. Look for ABET accreditation.
• Faculty Expertise: Experienced faculty can provide valuable insights and mentorship. Review faculty profiles to understand their qualifications.
• Practical Learning Opportunities: Essential for hands-on experience. Look for internships, co-ops, and research projects integrated into the program.
• Student Support Services: Access to academic advising, career counseling, and wellness resources can greatly enhance your academic journey.
• Location and Cultural Fit: Institutions in Alaska offer unique opportunities, particularly in fields like Arctic Engineering.
• Financial Aspects: Compare tuition costs, available scholarships, and financial aid options.

Steps to Further Your Research:

1. Visit Campuses: Attend campus visits or virtual tours to get a feel for the environment.
2. Review Accreditation: Confirm accreditation from reputable bodies like ABET.
3. Engage with Faculty and Students: Attend information sessions and talk to current students or alumni to gain firsthand insights.
4. Evaluate Financials: Understand the total cost of education and explore financial support options.

Carefully considering these factors will ensure you choose an engineering program that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.

Engineering Schools By State

Alabama	Alaska	Arizona	Arkansas	California
Colorado	Connecticut	Delaware	Florida	Georgia
Hawaii	Idaho	Illinois	Indiana	Iowa
Kansas	Kentucky	Louisiana	Maine	Maryland
Massachusetts	Michigan	Minnesota	Mississippi	Missouri
Montana	Nebraska	Nevada	New Hampshire	New Jersey
New Mexico	New York	North Carolina	North Dakota	Ohio
Oklahoma	Oregon	Pennsylvania	Rhode Island	South Carolina
South Dakota	Tennessee	Texas	Utah	Vermont
Virginia	Washington	West Virginia	Wisconsin	Wyoming

Conclusion: Explore Your Engineering Future in Alaska

Ultimately, the University of Alaska Fairbanks offers diverse engineering programs of exceptional quality. With strong research institutes, industry-expert faculty, and a plethora of student support services, UAF is an excellent choice for your engineering education. Alaska’s unique environment and specialized fields like Arctic Engineering provide unparalleled opportunities.

Explore these programs and embark on a fulfilling engineering career. Your journey starts with choosing the right engineering school in Alaska. Begin today and prepare for a future of innovative possibilities in the engineering domain.