Established by the Alaska Legislature in 1975, the UAA Justice Center provides statewide
leadership in justice education and research. As an interdisciplinary unit within
theUAA College of Health, we serve urban and rural Alaska to promote a safer, more just society.
Through our degree programs inCriminology & Criminal Justiceand our ABA-approved Legal Studiestracks, students gain the technical mastery and analytical skills required for professional
success. Our students learn alongside faculty experts whose research shapes Alaska’s
response to critical issues—from policing to crime prevention, community corrections
and reentry, and the courts.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Leading statewide efforts in criminal justice and criminology education, research
and service, the UAA Justice Center is a top choice among criminal justice schools
in Alaska and the U.S.
The Legal Studies BA program trains you in American law, legal processes and policy.
You’ll expand your legal knowledge and develop technical job skills in legal research,
analysis and writing.
Monica Roe has built a remarkable career that bridges rural health care and children’s literature, drawing on her decade of experience as a physical therapist in remote Alaska. Now completing her Master of Public Health at UAA, she explores disability, community resilience, and access through both research and storytelling. Her journey highlights the power of curiosity, mentorship, and embracing unexpected opportunities.
In January 2026, students from the College of Health showcased their public health research at the Alaska Public Health Association Summit’s annual poster session. Their projects spanned topics ranging from food security to environmental contamination, contributing valuable insights that help shape the evolving conversation around Alaska’s public health landscape.
Master of Nursing Education and Leadership student Wendy DeGraffenried reflects on her educational and professional journey. As a school nurse and adjunct instructor, Wendy found her passion in mentoring other nursing professionals – something that she hopes to carry forward with her as she starts a new chapter.
Elaina Mack, a senior kinesiology major from King Cove, broke school records with 10 successful three-point shots in the Seawolves game against Northwest U. Mack scored a total of 41 points over the course of the game.
On September 27, the women’s volleyball team invited faculty to join them on the court for Faculty & Staff Appreciation Night. Among the honorees were four standout educators from the College of Health, each nominated by students.
The Alaska Justice Information Center (AJiC) compiles, analyzes, and reports on criminal
justice topics in order to improve public safety, to increase criminal justice system
accountability, and to reduce recidivism.
The Alaska Victimization Survey (AVS) provides comprehensive statewide and regional
data to guide planning and policy development and to evaluate the impact of prevention
and intervention services.
The Alaska Justice Forum is a research journal focusing on justice and legal issues in Alaska. It was published
by the Justice Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage.
The courtroom also provides opportunities to educate and inspire Alaska middle and
high school students to build partnerships with secondary legal education programs
and curricula.
