Arctic and Northern Studies

Bachelor's Degree Program

If you’re interested in living and working in the North, think about earning your bachelor’s in Arctic and Northern studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. This unique program combines culture, politics, history and environmental studies to offer rare opportunities for cross-disciplinary research and learning. It’s also a great option if you’re looking to make a positive impact in the world through your work.

At UAF, you’ll study at the premier research institution in the circumpolar North, with access to resources you won’t find anywhere else in the world. This program also offers exciting opportunities to study abroad and experience the region first hand. Graduates of the program go on to diverse careers in conservation, research management, education and more.

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Why Study Arctic and Northern Studies at UAF?

Arctic and Northern studies students at UAF benefit from the extensive Northern expertise and research activities of our faculty, the rich Alaska and circumpolar collections of the UAF library and museum, and being surrounded by the North itself. Here are more reasons to major in Arctic and Northern studies at UAF.

Learn from and work with award-winning faculty

Arctic and Northern studies faculty have won major awards for excellence in teaching, research and public service. They are also accessible mentors who are here to guide you from your first class through graduation.

Get hands-on experience in the Northern context

The Arctic and Northern studies program offers extensive hands-on learning and research opportunities at the undergraduate level, with mentorship both by faculty and graduate students. We also encourage taking part in study abroad experiences in the North to strengthen your knowledge and understanding of the whole circumpolar region.

 
Access unique resources

In addition to our outstanding geographic location, you’ll also have access to our extensive holdings in the Alaska and Polar Regions Department at the Rasmuson Library—the largest research library in Alaska.Our expertise in design and construction in arctic conditions is the strongest in the nation.

 
Individualize your learning experience

Arctic and Northern studies include faculty and courses from political science, history, art, English, Alaska native studies, geography, Russian studies, music and anthropology. Because it’s so diverse, you’ll have all kinds of unique opportunities to work with other academic programs at UAF—making new connections and expanding your career horizons as you do.

 

What Can You Do With Your Bachelor’s Degree in Arctic and Northern Studies?

Prepare for careers in the North and learn about the distinctive conditions and forces that shape our experiences. Earning your bachelor’s in Arctic and Northern studies will prepare you for a broad range of career pathways, working in fields such as conservation and resource management, education, social services and more. Some of the organizations that have recently employed our graduates include:

  • Alaska Department of Health and Social Services
  • Alaska Department of Fish and Game
  • Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation
  • Center for Arctic Policy Studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks
  • Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
  • Bristol Bay Economic Development Corporation

 

 

 

Get Started on Your Bachelor’s Degree in Arctic and Northern Studies

Take the next step toward earning your bachelor’s degree. We have the resources to help you get started.