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 Â鶹¹ÙÍø 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.

What Is the Arctic and Northern Studies Program?

Arctic and Northern studies is an interdisciplinary program that explores challenges and policy issues specific to the North. Topics covered in the program are wide ranging and cross over into many different academic disciplines. Examples include Northern history, environmental politics and policy, Arctic policy, psychology, Northern arts and culture and tourism.

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Quick Facts

Degree type:

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
  • Offered as major and minor

Availability:

  • UAF's main campus in Fairbanks, Alaska

 

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.

The Arctic and Northern studies program is unique in the strong mentorship and support it provides. There is a real sense of community among the students and faculty. It makes for an incredibly encouraging environment that fosters creative thought and academic strengths. Another attractive feature of the Arctic and Northern studies program is the flexibility it allows. Rather than constricting my education to a pre-set curriculum, the Arctic and Northern studies program encouraged me to pursue the subjects I found most interesting. The program encourages experiential learning, especially abroad, and helped facilitate my period of study on Baffin Island. The interdisciplinary nature of the program has allowed me to gain expertise and knowledge in the fields I find most relevant and fascinating, a process I feel has strengthened my overall understanding of the North.Lisbet Norris, Arctic and Northern studies major

 

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 Â鶹¹ÙÍø Fairbanks
  • Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
  • Bristol Bay Economic Development Corporation

 

 

Explore Classes for Arctic and Northern Studies Majors

The Arctic and Northern studies program gives you the opportunity to tailor a course of study that suits your specific interests and career goals. Through the curriculum, you’ll explore a range of issues related to the circumpolar north, such as the survival of indigenous populations, environmental and wilderness issues, high rates of alcoholism and suicide, fragile environments, adaptation to extreme cold and cycles of light and darkness and adult development in small frontier societies.

Bachelor’s Degree Programs Related to Arctic and Northern Studies

 

 

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.

Talk to an Advisor

Have questions? Our expert advisors are here to guide you every step of the way. Let us know how we can help.

Transfer to UAF

Transferring to UAF? We can walk you through the process and help make sure you get the most out of the credits you’ve earned.

Apply Now and Request More Information

Earn your bachelor’s degree in Arctic and Northern studies at UAF. Submit your application online today.