Air Transportation at University of Alaska Anchorage

Anchorage, AK · Public · Bachelor's Degree
58 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
58
Optimistic
58
Base Case
58
Pessimistic
Earnings $40,796/yr (-8% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (33% exposed)
Job Market Large (60,400 openings/yr)
ROI 23.2x earnings multiple (8.1x out-of-state)
Ranked #10 of 54 Air Transportation programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

The University of Alaska Anchorage's Air Transportation program offers a distinct pathway into an industry crucial to the state's very fabric. Alaska's vast distances and limited road infrastructure mean aviation isn't just a convenience; it's a lifeline for communities and commerce. Your education here immerses you in a high-demand regional labor market, training you for roles essential to cargo operations, general aviation, and flight services that connect the state. While initial earnings might differ from the national average for this field, it often reflects the unique progression in Alaskan aviation. You're likely building critical flight hours and specialized skills in roles like bush piloting, air taxi, or flight instruction, which are foundational for eventual high-paying careers with regional carriers or major airlines. The strong local demand means excellent hands-on experience and networking opportunities with employers like Alaska Airlines, Lynden Air Cargo, and various charter services. Focus on leveraging these local connections and gaining varied flight experience; that will be your key to unlocking higher earnings down the line.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Air Transportation graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $713K $703K $636K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 23.6x 23.2x 21.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 8.2x 8.1x 7.3x
Probability of Field Employment 51% 48% 39%
DegreeOutlook Score 58 58 58

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$30,264
Out-of-state: $86,772 (8.1x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$55,120
-82% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,142
7.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$77,189
89% growth from Year 1

About University of Alaska Anchorage

A 67% admission rate makes University of Alaska Anchorage accessible to a wide range of qualified students, serving 6,916 students in Anchorage, AK.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Alaska Anchorage →

Top Career Paths

Airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers $226,600/yr
Air traffic controllers $144,580/yr
Commercial pilots $122,670/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Air Transportation at Other Schools

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Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does University of Alaska Anchorage's Air Transportation program score?
This program scores 58/100, reflecting respectable but not exceptional financial outcomes for Air Transportation graduates.
Why does University of Alaska Anchorage rank so high for Air Transportation?
The #10 ranking out of 54 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →