The MS in Nursing explores advanced professional nursing practice, theory, research
and health care delivery systems—all within the context of Alaska’s diverse communities,
including rural and underserved populations. Students interested inclinical practice
can choose between FNP and PMHNP concentrations. Alternatively, students can concentrate
in nursing leadership, with an emphasis on education.
As a student in one of the graduate certificate programs, you’ll build on your graduate
degree and your current speciality, integrating theory-based advanced practice nursing
courses and specialty clinical practice. Depending on your interests and career goals,
you can choose between FNP or PMHNP specializations. The graduate certificate in nursing
education provides you with the theory and skills you need to enter the high-demand
field of nursing education. The program focuses on teaching and learning, curriculum
development, and curriculum evaluation. Students also learn to utilize new technology
for learning and collaboration. A teaching practicum gives you real-world experience
delivering your own curriculum on a topic that you’re passionate about.
As the highest degree in nursing practice, the DNP is designed for nurses with an
MS in Nursing degree who are currently certified in an advanced practice registered
nurse (APRN) role. The program emphasizes advanced nursing practice, theory, research
and leadership, with a focus on the unique needs of Alaska’s diverse urban and rural
communities. As a DNP student, you’ll culminate the program by developing and defending
a scholarly capstone project on a topic you choose that reflects your professional
interests and goals.
*The MS in Nursing, Graduate Certificate in FNP, and Graduate Certificate in PMHNP
programs are designed to meet the educational requirements for professional licensure
or certification in Alaska. However, the program might not meet the educational requirements
for other states' professional licensure or certification. Please see UAA’s Licensure and Certification website for more information.
WHY CHOOSE nursing GRADUATE programs AT UAA?
100% job placement rate for nurse practitioners after they are certified.
Work with urban and rural communities throughout Alaska in internships and clinical
experiences.
Learn from experienced nursing professionals in a variety of settings while participating
in a variety of professional activities and events.
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.
Tara Schmidt is an alumna of the Division of Population Health Sciences Master of Public Health program. In this spotlight, she reflects on how her time at UAA shaped her career path—from the relationships that opened doors and guided her forward to the unexpected milestones.
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.
From campus food pantries to statewide health initiatives, Keely Livingston is turning passion into purpose. Keely’s journey into public health began with hands-on work in food security during her undergrad years at Montana State and led her to enroll in UAA's Master of Public Health Program.
Over the course of 18 months, Fulbright Arctic Initiative Scholar and public health practice alumna Mariah Seater will be traveling to Iceland to research family justice centers in the Arctic with the hopes of applying her findings to Alaska communities.
