Analysis
A bachelor's in construction management at University of Alaska Anchorage appears financially sound based on what comparable programs nationally suggest. Similar programs across the country typically produce first-year earnings around $73,000, with debt loads just under $25,000—translating to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33. That means graduates would owe roughly four months of their first-year salary, well within the realm of comfortable repayment for most borrowers.
The progression from estimated first-year earnings to actual fourth-year earnings of $85,761 shows solid income growth typical of construction management careers, where experience and licensure quickly increase earning power. Alaska's construction sector, driven by infrastructure needs and unique building challenges in cold climates, may offer additional opportunities beyond what national averages capture. However, keep in mind that as the only school offering this program in Alaska, there's no state-level data to confirm whether UAA's outcomes match, exceed, or fall short of these national patterns.
The key uncertainty here is whether UAA's specific program delivers outcomes similar to its peer institutions nationwide. If it does, the financial picture looks strong—reasonable debt for solid starting pay in a field with clear career progression. The risk lies in the data gap: you're investing based on national norms rather than proven track record at this particular school.
Where University of Alaska Anchorage Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all construction management bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alaska Anchorage | — | $85,761 | — |
| California State University-Chico | $89,075 | $102,776 | +15% |
| Boise State University | $77,109 | $99,500 | +29% |
| California State University-East Bay | $99,649 | $97,048 | -3% |
| Arizona State University Campus Immersion | $82,591 | $96,930 | +17% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Construction Management bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Alaska AnchorageAnchorage | $7,566 | $72,746* | $85,761 | $24,053* | — |
 California State University-East BayHayward | $7,055 | $99,649* | $97,048 | —* | — |
 California Polytechnic State University-San Luis ObispoSan Luis Obispo | $11,075 | $92,785* | — | $18,955* | 0.20 |
 California State University-ChicoChico | $8,064 | $89,075* | $102,776 | $19,314* | 0.22 |
 Weber State UniversityOgden | $6,391 | $82,914* | — | $15,000* | 0.18 |
 Arizona State University Campus ImmersionTempe | $12,051 | $82,591* | $96,930 | —* | — |
| National Median | — | $72,746* | — | $24,750* | 0.34 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with construction management graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Alaska Anchorage, approximately 19% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 56 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.