Civil Engineering at University of Alaska Anchorage

Alaska's infrastructure needs create strong demand for engineers, and UAA graduates enter this market earning $72,140—above the national median and competitive with the state's only other civil engineering program at UAF. By year four, earnings climb to nearly $85,000, representing solid 17% growth. Among Alaska's two civil engineering programs, UAA ranks at the 60th percentile, essentially splitting the middle with Fairbanks in a tight market.

The debt picture is notably favorable: $31,000 puts this program in the 5th percentile nationally for student debt, meaning 95% of civil engineering programs leave graduates with higher loans. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43, graduates owe less than half their first-year salary—a manageable burden that allows for faster financial stability. This is particularly significant in Alaska, where cost of living is higher than most states.

The caveat here is sample size—fewer than 30 graduates in the cohort means these numbers could shift considerably year to year. However, the combination of below-average debt, above-average earnings, and steady income growth suggests this program delivers value. For families considering Alaska schools, UAA offers a practical path into a profession with consistent regional demand without excessive financial burden.