Overview of Alaska Pacific University
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Alaska Pacific University (APU) is a private, nonprofit university located in Anchorage, Alaska. Known for its unique academic programs, commitment to environmental stewardship, and emphasis on experiential learning, APU offers a distinctive educational experience in a setting surrounded by the natural beauty of Alaska.
Mission and Values:
Alaska Pacific University is guided by a mission to empower students to have a meaningful impact on the environment, community, and world. The university places a strong emphasis on fostering environmental responsibility, social justice, and the well-being of both individuals and the planet. APU’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement is deeply embedded in its institutional values.
Academic Programs:
APU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as environmental science, outdoor studies, business administration, psychology, and liberal studies. The university’s academic approach integrates theoretical learning with hands-on experiences, preparing students to address real-world challenges.
One of the notable features of APU’s academic offerings is its focus on outdoor and experiential education, taking advantage of Alaska’s unique environment for learning opportunities. Whether studying the natural sciences, social sciences, or humanities, students at APU often engage in fieldwork, research, and internships that connect classroom learning to the surrounding wilderness.
Experiential Learning:
Experiential learning is a cornerstone of the APU educational experience. The university’s location in Alaska provides an ideal backdrop for students to immerse themselves in the natural environment and apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. Whether through outdoor adventures, field studies, or internships, students gain practical skills and a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of ecological systems.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship:
APU is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The university takes concrete steps to minimize its ecological footprint, and this commitment is integrated into various aspects of campus life. APU’s dedication to sustainability aligns with its academic programs, emphasizing the importance of responsible environmental practices and preparing students to be informed and proactive stewards of the Earth.
Community Engagement:
As an integral part of the Anchorage community, APU actively engages with local organizations and initiatives. The university encourages students to participate in community service projects, internships, and research that address local needs and contribute to the well-being of the community. This commitment to community engagement reflects APU’s broader mission of fostering positive social change.
Small Class Sizes and Personalized Learning:
With small class sizes, APU provides a personalized learning environment where students can actively engage with professors and peers. This intimate setting fosters a sense of community, encourages collaborative learning, and allows faculty to provide individualized attention to students’ academic and personal development.
Alaska’s Natural Beauty:
The location of APU in Alaska is not only a unique aspect of its educational experience but also a source of inspiration and exploration for students. Surrounded by the vast wilderness, students have the opportunity to participate in outdoor activities, explore the diverse ecosystems of Alaska, and develop a profound connection to nature.
Campus Facilities:
While APU is known for its emphasis on outdoor and experiential learning, it also provides modern facilities to support academic, research, and recreational activities. The campus includes classrooms, laboratories, and spaces designed for collaborative learning. The university’s commitment to sustainability is often reflected in the design and management of its facilities.
Alumni Impact:
APU’s alumni have made significant contributions in various fields, from environmental science and sustainability to business and community development. The university takes pride in the accomplishments of its graduates, who are often equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values gained from their unique APU education.
Alaska Pacific University offers a distinctive educational experience with a focus on environmental responsibility, experiential learning, and community engagement. The university’s commitment to sustainability, personalized learning, and utilizing Alaska’s natural resources for educational purposes sets it apart as a unique institution. As institutions can evolve, it’s advisable to check the university’s official website or contact the admissions office for the most current and detailed information.
4101 University Drive Anchorage, AK 99508-3051
Phone: (800) 252-7528
Email: admissions@alaskapacific.edu
Web site: http://www.alaskapacific.edu
Rankings: Alaska Pacific University
Alaska Pacific University has consistently been ranked among the top universities in the United States. According to US News and World Report, APU is currently ranked #5 in Regional Universities West, #2 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, and #4 in Best Value Schools. Additionally, APU ranks #3 among universities in the West for having the most international students enrolled. The university also places a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship and is ranked #6 among universities nationwide for its commitment to sustainability efforts.
Apart from its impressive rankings, Alaska Pacific University offers an outstanding academic experience with small class sizes that enable faculty to provide individual attention to each student. The university also provides an array of learning opportunities outside of the classroom such as internships, research projects, study abroad programs and service-learning initiatives. These experiences provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success after graduation. In addition to its excellent academic offerings, APU also offers a vibrant campus life filled with clubs, activities and events that help students stay connected to one another while developing their leadership skills. All of these factors contribute to Alaska Pacific University’s success as one of the top universities in the United States.
Located in Anchorage, AK, Alaska Pacific University is one of the best universities in the state of Alaska. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Alaska Pacific University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Alaska Pacific University.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.4 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 93 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 66.5% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 34.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 28 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 94.1% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 0.0% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 9:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 76.2% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 28 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 1000-1230 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 24% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 50% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 34.8% |
| Financial resources rank: | 11 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 52 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 6.4% |
Essential Facts: Alaska Pacific University
- Gould became the first Alaska Native minister in the United Methodist Church later in life, and used his position to campaign for the development of a Methodist University in Alaska.
- Alaska Pacific University is known for its Nordic Ski Team. The APU Nordic Ski Center (APUNSC) was established in 1999 as a regional Olympic training center for cross-country skiers.
- Alaska Pacific University is a very small four-year, private not-for-profit school with 520 students enrolled. Alaska Pacific University is ranked among Best Lesbian and Gay Friendly Schools in USA.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 19% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 0% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 0% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 98% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 95% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | No |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance mandatory, honor code, hazing prohibited, smoking prohibited, other |
| Collegiate athletic association: | N/A |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | skiing (nordic) |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | skiing (nordic) |
| Student activities: | drama/theater, music ensembles, student government, student newspaper |