meeting Alaska’s healthcare needs

APU is committed to addressing Alaska’s healthcare workforce needs, particularly the ongoing nursing shortage. We aim to grow a sustainable nursing workforce in our state by offering comprehensive educational pathways that vary to match the schedule and needs of each student. Students interested in nursing typically begin their journey as a pre-nursing student in health sciences. Once they complete the necessary prerequisites, they can then apply to one of our various nursing degrees or certificate options. Our programs offer the foundational skills needed to provide culturally safe, holistic care for Alaska Natives, Indigenous peoples, and other under-served populations across Alaska.

In June 2023, APU started the Alaska Nursing Expansion Initiative. This project received $2,999,913.00 (83% of its total cost) from a grant awarded under the Nursing Expansion Grant Program, as implemented by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. $599,983.00 (17%) of the project is financed by Alaska Pacific University.

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Licensed Practical Nursing

UNDERGRADUATE CERTIFICATE

The Practical Nursing program at APU delivers a curriculum focused on cultural safety and quality care for rural and Alaska Native populations. The certificate program aligns with opportunities for advancement in the nursing profession, and prepares paths for students to contribute to the health and well-being of their communities.

APU’s LPN program is currently offered in three locations:

Anchorage, Alaska in partnership with Alaska Native Medical Center
Fairbanks, Alaska in partnership with Foundation Health Partners
Juneau, Alaska in partnership with Bartlett Regional Hospital

Students interested in nursing should follow the undergraduate steps for application.

APU’s Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs work in partnership with Foundation Health Partners (Fairbanks), Alaska Native Medical Center (Anchorage), and Bartlett Regional Hospital (Juneau). Our programs develop students to provide culturally safe, evidence-based, patient-centered nursing care to restore, promote, and maintain physical and mental health throughout the lifespan in various healthcare settings. We teach our students to demonstrate clinical judgment to make patient-centered care decisions within the scope of practical nursing practice.

Over two semesters, using the integration of culturally relevant care activities to improve patient care, students will learn how to demonstrate patient advocacy, incorporate families and recognize groups in ways that promote self-determination, integrity, and growth as human beings, and to respect the diversity of individuals.

Incorporating principles of communication and collaboration, students learn to work as part of healthcare teams in professional settings to promote movement toward optimal levels of health for patients. Utilizing evidence-based methods, assessments, technologies, and management systems to guide and communicate decisions that promote optimal outcomes, students apply both traditional and academic knowledge to advance the health of Alaska Native, indigenous, and underserved populations.

Graduates from the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) undergraduate certificate are pursuing careers in businesses like:

Hospital worker
Hospice care
Private clinics
Licensed Practical Nurse
Nursing school

Learning Outcomes

Cultural Competence & Cultural Safety
Professional Communication & Collaboration
Professional Care
Evidence-Based & Technology-Assisted Assessment
Personal & Social Responsibility

Course Delivery

Full Semester (16 weeks)

27 credits minimum are required to complete the certificate program. Studies are offered in a hybrid format:

On-campus
Online via asynchronous learning
On-site for clinical and lab skill practice

Major Studies

Culturally Safe Foundations of Practical Nursing (7)
Culturally Safe and Holistic Nursing Care of Adults (6)
Maternal Child Culturally Safe Care (3)
Pathopharmacology for Licensed Practical Nurses (4)
The Nursing Profession – Quality, Ethics, Legalities, and Policy for Licensed Practical Nurses (3)
Practical Nursing Clinical Concentration – Preceptorship (1)
Culturally Safe Health & Wellness (3)

Application
Application Fee*
Official Final High School Transcript**
Official College Transcript(s)
Prerequisite Coursework
Proof of Clinical Experience
Interview with Nursing Faculty
If accepted, additional requirements may apply

*Fee waiver available for those who qualify
** If less than 24 college credits earned

Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.5 or higher

Human Anatomy & Physiology I w/ lab (4)
Culturally Safe Healthcare: Inquiry & Practice (4)

Proof of Clinical Experience can include:

Certified Medical Assistant
Certified Nursing Assistant
Certified Health Aid
Paramedic
EMT
Dental Health Aide
Other experience may be accepted (please contact the Office of Admissions)

Transfer credits may be used to meet prerequisites; however Culturally Safe Health Care is a prerequisite for all APU nursing students and must be completed at APU. Prerequisite coursework completed more than ten (10) years ago is not eligible for consideration for admissions into APU nursing programs. All prerequisite coursework must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher and be eligible for transfer to APU if completed at another university. Nursing Major courses are not eligible for transfer.

The Alaska Board of Nursing in keeping with statutes AS 08.68.100(a) and AS 08.62.290 and regulations 12 AAC 44.010 and 12 AAC 44.055, provides oversight and annual approval of nursing programs. All records were found to be in order. The Alaska Board of Nursing has issued full approval of APU’s Practical Nursing (LPN), ADN and RN to BSN programs for 2025. Additionally, the Board approved the development of an LPN to RN bridge program. The Board fully supports the continuation of the nursing education program at Alaska Pacific University.

The LPN program is accredited through:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

What is a Licensed Practice Nurse and what can I do with this certificate?

This certificate program meets the requirements set out by the Alaska Board of Nursing for licensure as a Practical Nurse. Students develop these skills in the nursing skills and simulation labs, classroom, and clinical experiences in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. The certificate program authorizes one to sit for a national examination, NCLEX-PN and achieve licensure. With licensure the LPN can provide direct care to patients, giving routine nursing care to all types of patients, and provide health teaching to clients in many settings. They often assist Registered Nurses in more complex, non-routine care. Typical duties include taking vital signs, administering prescribed medications, giving injections, preparing patients for medical examinations and surgical procedures, and recording information in the patient’s medical record.

Where is this program offered?

APU’s LPN program is currently offered in the following locations: Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. Students must be able to attend in-person labs and clinical rotations in the program for which they apply and are admitted.

When does the next cohort start and what is the application timeline?

Each program location starts in the fall term with an application deadline of May 1 and a notification date in June.

How is the program structured? If you get in, what is the commitment? (classes, time required, schedule)

The program is 2 semesters long, a total of 27 credit hours and will be offered in a hybrid format. Lectures will be online and recorded to offer students a flexible schedule. Students will be required to meet in person at their program location facility several times a week, depending on location. APU Nursing faculty does not make the clinical schedule, it is dependent on our clinical partners and may include weekend or overnight shifts.

I work full-time, can I still do the program?

This is a full-time program. Although it is offered in hybrid format, you should expect to meet in-person at the clinical/educational partner site for lab work (see question 7), be available for your clinical rotations – which may include weekend or overnight shifts. Lastly, every class hour in nursing correlates to 3 hours of homework, reading, and studying. Even when you are not meeting in person, you should be prepared to build self-study time into your weekly schedule.

Pre-Requisite Coursework

Admission to the LPN program requires the completion of HS 20500 Culturally Safe Healthcare ( 4 Credits) and SC 26000 Human Anatomy & Physiology (w/ a lab) or equivalent. Both courses must be completed with a C or better and completed within the last 10 years.

How do I apply?

Apply online with your $35 application fee. Click here to apply.

Do I need internet?

At home (or another location) the course will require the following:

i. A reliable computer & access to Blackboard
ii. A recent web browser
iii. An Internet Service Provider (ISP)
iv. An internet connection
v. Computer microphone, speakers, and camera

How much does the program cost?

Costs for the LPN program can be found on our Cost of Attendance page under Undergraduate Students cost.

Costs are estimates. Some costs may be greater or less than estimated. Some courses have fees, such as lab fees, that are not included in mandatory fees listed. Basic cost of attendance information is updated annually on our Admissions and Costs page .

Are financial aid and scholarships available?

Yes. Students should begin the financial aid process first by filling out the Free Application for Federal Students Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, APU offers several other resources for scholarships and financial aid below:

Tribal Health Systems Scholarship: Alaska Pacific University offers a scholarship for employees, board members, and dependents of the Alaska Tribal Health System, and a matching scholarship for ANTHC employees who are Alaska Native or American Indian.

Managed Scholarships: APU has several donor-funded scholarships that require a separate application to apply.

I still have more questions, what should I do?

Contact the APU Office of Admission at admissions@alaskapacific.edu

Anchorage: APU Nursing Department, nursing@alaskapacific.edu

How does licensure work? Can I apply for licensure outside Alaska?

Upon successful completion of all requirements of the APU Practical Nursing Certificate Program, the student will file a form in the state in which he/she wishes to take the national nursing licensure examination. These forms are available online at https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/portals/5/pub/nur4111.pdf

2. The APU Registrars’ Office sends the verification form to the Alaska Board of Nursing, assuring that the student has met all requirements to take the NCLEX- PN examination.

3. It will take at least six (4-6) weeks after graduation for the posting of the information necessary for the affidavit and testing attestation to be completed.

If a student is interested in licensure in another state, they are responsible for contacting that state’s Board of Nursing office for information. A list of state licensure requirements is available on the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Website: https://www.ncsbn.org/14730.htm

Students requiring accommodations will refer to the State Board of Nursing for information.

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Practical Nursing to Registered Nurse Bridge Program

Licensed Practical Nurse Bridge to Registered Nurse Associate Degree

The Practical Nursing to Registered Nurse (LPN to RN) Bridge Program provides a streamlined course of study to the Associate Degree in Nursing for those who already have an unencumbered practical nursing license in Alaska. The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at APU prepares nurse generalists. The program aims to provide foundational nursing skills needed to provide holistic, culturally safe healthcare for Alaskan communities. After completing all foundational requirements and a nursing transitions course for the pathway, students are integrated into the ADN coursework and clinical rotations.

Students interested in nursing should follow the undergraduate steps for application.

The LPN to RN program is an accelerated pathway to the associate degree in nursing (ADN), which prepares students to attain licensure as a Registered Nurse. Coursework includes both hybrid classes and on-site clinical activities. Clinical activities will be offered at selected instructional sites throughout Alaska. Prospective students will indicate a preference of location on program application; however, as space is limited, there is no guarantee of admission to the preferred location. Students must be able to attend regular on-site courses and clinicals at the instruction location to which they are admitted.

Students must complete all foundational courses as well as NUR 11500 (LPN to RN Transition) before starting other nursing coursework. Admitted students who have successfully completed (minimum grade of C in each course) equivalent foundational coursework at an accredited institution may have their transcript(s) evaluated to determine coursework transferability. Foundational coursework completed more than ten (10) years before the start of nursing courses and any nursing major courses are not eligible for transfer.

The eligibility criteria to apply for admission to the LPN to RN pathway to the Associate Degree in Nursing program are:

Eligibility

Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
Applicants must have graduated from a practical nursing associate degree or certificate program from an accredited practical or vocational nursing program.
Applicants must have an unencumbered Alaska LPN license.
Applicants must have a 2.5 cumulative grade point average (GPA) or higher.
Applicants must be able to attend clinical activities and other coursework in person at one of the designated instructional locations

Application Requirements

Completed application form submitted by the deadline noted on APU website.
Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions must be submitted.
If an applicant has less than 24 college credits, they must also submit high school transcripts.
Cover letter with education statement explaining interest in gaining RN degree and current resume.
Applicants must indicate a preferred instructional location for clinical rotations. Indication of a preference does not guarantee admission.

Selection Process

Applications are reviewed by a nursing faculty admissions committee based on a holistic evaluation of the applicant’s academic record, resume, relevant experience, and personal statement. The application deadline is May 1.

Top applicants meeting minimum requirements may be invited for an interview to assess communication skills, critical thinking, and suitability for the nursing program.

Following a holistic review of the application materials and interview proceedings the nursing faculty admissions committee will select candidates for admission.

Notification

All applicants will be notified of the admissions decision by the date on the APU website.

Accepted students will receive information regarding program orientation and registration procedures.

Appeals Process

This program utilizes a holistic admissions process, carefully considering each applicant’s complete profile beyond just grades and test scores. Due to the multifaceted nature of this evaluation, admissions decisions are final.

Non-Discrimination Policy

The APU nursing program admits students without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or disability status.

Additional Considerations

The nursing program reserves the right to modify this admissions policy at any time.

Applicants are highly encouraged to attend information sessions offered by the program to learn more about the application process and curriculum.

Students accepted into the program must submit a background check compliant with ICPA standards and evidence of current immunizations, screenings, and trainings. See the program information in the APU Catalog for more information.

Students who successfully complete the Associate Degree in Nursing program will be prepared to attain licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Upon successful completion of all requirements of the APU ADN nursing program, the student can file a form with the state to indicate their intent to take the national nursing licensure examination. These forms are available online.
The APU Registrar’s Office sends the verification form to the Alaska Board of Nursing, assuring that the student has met all requirements to take the NCLEX examination.
It will take at least six (4-6) weeks after graduation for the posting of the information necessary for the affidavit and testing attestation to be completed.

Students requiring accommodations will refer to the State Board of Nursing for information.

The LPN to RN Bridge pathway requires both Foundational Studies and Nursing Coursework. Advisors will work with admitted students to develop individual degree plans, incorporating completed APU coursework and courses approved for transfer from other accredited institutions. Students must complete all foundational courses and NUR 11500 (LPN to RN Transition) before starting other nursing coursework.

Foundational Courses (32 credits)

HS 20500 – Culturally Safe Healthcare: Inquiry & Practice (4)
MT 11000 – Algebra for Health Sciences (4)
SC 16100 – Principles of Biology I (4)
SC 17000 – Principles of Chemistry I (4)
SC 26000 – Human Anatomy and Physiology l (4)
SC 26200 – Human Anatomy and Physiology ll (4)
PY 21500 – Lifespan Human Development (4)
WRIT 10100 – Writing & Research I: Argumentation (4)

Nursing Studies (31 credits)
APU approves 9 credits of self-determined credit for graduation from a nationally accredited LPN or LVN program.

Course registration is approved by nursing faculty for the following courses:

NUR 11500 – LPN to RN Transition (4)
NUR 22001 – Population Health: Culturally Safe Nursing Care of Individuals and Families within the Alaskan Indigenous Population (3)
NUR 26500 – Med/Surg I: Care of the Client with Chronic and Acute Conditions (8)
NUR 27500 – Pathopharmacology II (2)
NUR 28500 – NCLEX Capstone Course – Transition to Practice (2)
NUR 37500 – Holistic Care of Families (4)
NUR 38500 – Med/Surg II: Transition to Care of the Client with Critical Conditions (8)

Minimum Graduation Credit Hour Requirement: 69

APU’s Associate Degree in Nursing is accredited through:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

Why do foundational courses have to have been taken within the last 10 years?

Foundational courses are required for the associates degree in nursing (ADN). We have found that completing foundation courses first promotes academic success and enables students to balance the demands of clinical and other nursing courses. This is to ensure you have a current base of knowledge on which to build your continuing nursing education.

I work full-time. Can I still do the program?

This is an accelerated, intensive program requiring a considerable time commitments. Depending on your work schedule, course load, and other commitment, you may be able to work full-time while completing foundational coursework. However, the ADN nursing part of the pathway is a full-time program. For the first 6 – 8 weeks of the semester, you should expect to meet in-person each week from 8am – 4pm on: Mondays and Wednesdays OR Tuesdays and Thursdays, depending in which semester you are currently enrolled. For the last 8 – 10 weeks of the semester, you will need to be available for your weekly clinical rotations, which may include night and weekend shifts. Lastly, every credit hour in nursing correlates to 3 hours of homework, reading, and studying. Even when you are not meeting in-person, you should build self-study time into your weekly schedule.

Are there additional fees associated with the LPN to RN Bridge program?

The Associate Degree in Nursing and the LPN to RN Bridge each have a mandatory program fee of $4,000, not listed in the Mandatory Fees, for identity verification, specific supplies, and the ATI (Assessment Technology Institute) nursing education platform. The program fee is split over the first three semesters ($1500, $1300, and $1200 respectively) and charged as a non-refundable lab fee in three relevant courses. The program fee is subject to modification and may be charged more than once if courses are repeated and/or program completion requires additional semesters beyond the normal program length.

I have an LPN license from another state. Am I eligible to apply?

Alaska is not yet part of the Nurse Licensure Compact. The Alaska Board of Nursing has a process for transferring an LPN license from another state. The process can take 12-20 weeks.

What if I don’t want to continue clinical nursing practice?

APU has several other degree programs that might be a good fit for you, including Environmental Public Health, Health Sciences, and concentrations in healthcare management within both the Health Science and Business programs.

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Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

ASSOCIATE OF NURSING

At APU, we’ve created a diverse set of educational pathways that address Alaska’s healthcare workforce demands. Our Associate Degree in Nursing program equips students with the essential skills for providing culturally safe, holistic care to Alaska Natives, Indigenous peoples, and other underserved communities across Alaska.

The ADN program equips students with the skills they need through relevant coursework, practical real-world projects, and valuable clinical placements. Our distinctive education approach prepares and supports students every step of the way as they pursue their education, professional, and community driven goals.

Our nursing graduates are prepared for a vast array of opportunities, making a real difference in healthcare across Alaska and beyond. Here’s a glimpse of what you can do as an RN:

Community Health: Public Health, School Nursing, Home Health
Special Populations: Pediatrics, Oncology, Geriatrics, Women’s Health
Unique Roles: Travel Nursing, Occupational Health, Telehealth
Acute Care: Emergency Room, Critical Care, Operating Room
Chronic Care: Long-Term Care, Dialysis, Wound Care

Relevant Coursework with Real-World Projects and Clinical Placements

The program follows a cohort model. Students admitted to the nursing program can expect to complete the program in three semesters across 18 months, based on full-time enrollment.

69 credits minimum are required to complete the degree program. Courses are offered in a mixed format of:

On-campus
Online via asynchronous learning

Major Studies

Foundations of Culturally Safe Nursing Practice (8)
Pathopharmacology I (2)
Population Health: Culturally Safe Nursing Care of Individuals and Families Within the Alaskan Indigenous Population (3)
Mental and Behavioral Health in Nursing: A Culturally Safe Approach (3)
Med/Surg I: Care of the Client with Chronic and Acute Conditions (8)
Pathopharmacology II (2)
NCLEX Capstone Course (2)
Holistic Care of Families (4)
Med/Surg II: Transition to Care of the Client with Critical Conditions (8)

Application
Application Fee*
Official Final High School Transcript**
Official College Transcript(s)
Cover Letter (sample: cover letter)
Prerequisite Coursework
Resume w/ recommended information (samples: resume, references)
Prerequisite Course Inventory
Upon review of application documents, successful candidates will be invited to an interview with Nursing faculty

All prerequisites for the ADN program must be completed by the application deadline.

Application deadline:

Fall cohort: May 1^st
Spring cohort: October 1^st

*Fee waiver available for those who qualify
** If less than 24 college credits earned

Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.5
Minimum extracted prerequisite GPA: 3.0

Principles of Biology I (4)
Principles of Chemistry I (4)
Human Anatomy & Physiology I (4)
Human Anatomy & Physiology II (4)
Algebra for Health Sciences (4)
Lifespan Human Development (4)
Writing & Research I: Argumentation (4)
Culturally Safe Healthcare: Inquiry & Practice (4)

Transfer credits may be used to meet prerequisites; however, Culturally Safe Health Care is a prerequisite for all APU nursing students and must be completed at APU. Prerequisite coursework completed more than ten (10) years ago is not eligible for consideration for admissions into APU nursing programs. All prerequisite coursework must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher and be eligible for transfer to APU if completed at another university. Nursing Major courses are not eligible for transfer.

The ADN program is accredited through:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

How do I apply to the nursing program at APU?

Those interested must submit the online application for admission at alaskapacific.edu/apply. Prior to applying to the ADN program, a student must complete all prerequisite courses before starting the program by applying to the Bachelor of Health Sciences – Nursing. Completion of pre-nursing coursework does not guarantee admission to the ADN program.

How much is tuition?

Estimated cost for 2 semesters (living off-campus):

Tuition	20,350
Mandatory Fees	410
Room	13,300
Board	4,200
Books/Supplies	1,200
Transportation	2,160
Personal/MISC	2,250
ADN Fee	4,000
ADN Off-Campus Cost	47,870

Are there additional fees associated with the program?

What if I decide I don’t want to stay in nursing?

If you decide that pursuing the Associate Degree in Nursing is not a good fit, you may pursue another concentration within the BS in Health Sciences program or another academic program at APU. It is imperative to work with your Academic Advisor to set up an updated course of study and degree plan.

Is the ADN program accredited at APU?

APU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities (NWCCU) and authorized by the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education (ACPE). The Alaska Board of Nursing in keeping with statutes AS 08.68.100(a) and AS 08.62.290 and regulations 12 AAC 44.010 and 12 AAC 44.055, provides oversight and annual approval of nursing programs. Alaska Pacific University nursing program has submitted the required reports and has ACEN approval. All records were found to be in order. The Alaska Board of Nursing has issued full approval of APU’s LPN, ADN, and RN to BSN programs. The Board fully supports the continuation of the nursing education program at Alaska Pacific University.

Does APU accept/transfer nursing courses from other nursing programs?

No. Per the nursing department no transfer courses within the nursing curriculum will be accepted for courses required for the program.

When will the application period open/close?

Application cycles are open.

For admission to the Spring Cohort: Application closes October 1
For admission to the Fall Cohort: Application closes May 1

The completed application, including all required documents, are due no later than 11:59 PM (AKDT) on the due date listed above.

After processing, the completed files will be sent to the nursing department for review. The nursing department will contact selected students for an interview with the nursing faculty. Applicants can expect to be notified about the interview within two weeks after the application cycle closes.

How many students are admitted every year?

Up to 24 students are admitted each semester.

I work full-time. Can I still do the program?

This is a full-time program. For the first 6 – 8 weeks of the semester, you should expect to meet in-person each week from 8am – 4pm on Mondays and Wednesdays OR Tuesdays and Thursdays, depending in which semester you are currently enrolled. For the last 8 – 10 weeks of the semester, you will need to be available for your weekly clinical rotations, which may include night and weekend shifts. Every credit hour in nursing correlates to 3 hours of homework, reading, and studying. Even when you are not meeting in-person, you should build self-study time into your weekly schedule.

I am not sure if one or more of my prerequisite courses is over the 10-year requirement. What should I do?

For students applying to the program, no courses taken prior to 10 years will be allowed under the 10-year rule.

Why do prerequisite classes have to be within the last 10 years?

This is to ensure you have a current base of knowledge to build on. Prerequisite courses form the foundation of knowledge on which nursing classes are built.

Are any College-Level Examination Programs (CLEP) exams accepted in place of prerequisite courses?

APU’s nursing faculty will accept up to 8 credits from CLEP exams. No science courses can be tested out of using CLEP.

I need more information. Who can I contact about the program?

APU Office of Admissions – admissions@alaskapacific.edu or (907) 564-8248
Institute of Health & Wellness – healthandwellness@alaskapacific.edu or (907) 564-8225

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Nursing (RN to BSN)

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

The RN to BSN Program offers a unique educational opportunity for Registered Nurses to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in Alaska. The development of our program addresses the ongoing nursing shortage and offers a new pathway for growing a sustainable nursing workforce in our State.

The RN to BSN Program ensures that our existing Alaska-based Registered Nurses can continue to provide care in local health facilities while pursuing higher education and professional goal attainment. Our distinctive program not only provides an educational pathway for Registered Nurses to attain their bachelor’s degree in Nursing (RN-BSN), but delivers an education that is grounded in cultural competence and cultural safety.

Our program incorporates indigenous ways of knowing and seeks to prepare Registered Nurses to embrace their role as health and wellness advocates for Alaska Natives.

View the Nursing Program Student Handbook

Career Opportunities

As the focus of healthcare shifts to primary prevention and care at the community level, the need for Alaska-based nurses grows. Registered Nurses who attain a BSN degree have greater job placement opportunities and increased earning potential throughout the State of Alaska.

Most courses are offered in two 7-week modules via distance delivery (full semester is 15 weeks). Applicants are accepted for both Fall and Spring semesters.

Foundational Studies

Written Communication (4)
Presentation & Media Literacy (3-4)
Critical Thinking (3-4)
Computation (3-4)
Intellectual Traditions (4)
Creative Endeavors (4)
Intercultural & Spiritual Understandings (3-4)
Biological/Physical Scientific Inquiry (4)
Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry (3-4)
Social Responsibility (2)
Personal Responsibility (1-2)

Co-Requisites

Courses that may satisfy BSN and Foundational Studies Courses:

Anatomy & Physiology (4)
History & Culture of AK Natives (4)
Lifespan Human Development (4)
Statistics I (3)

Major Studies

Professional Nursing (3)
Healthcare Ethics (3)
Evidence-Based Research & Practice (3)
Pathophysiology (3)
Health Assessment (3)
Nursing Leadership (3)
Healing Therapies (3)
Healthcare Informatics (3)
Population & Community Health: Inquiry & Practicum (6)

Self-Determined Studies

Students can meet the minimum graduation credit requirement by taking electives, credit-by-exam, applying transfer credit, credit earned through military training, assessment of prior learning, or other approved alternative methods of earning credit.

Completion

128 credits minimum are required to complete the degree program. Core competencies, foundational, major, and self-determined studies are offered in a mixed format of:

On-campus
Online via synchronous learning

Application
Application Fee*
Official College Transcript(s)
Copy of RN License

*Fee waiver available for those who qualify

Minimum GPA: 2.5 or higher
If you have a lower GPA, we are happy to work with you to complete your application

The RN to BSN program option is accredited through:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

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Counseling Psychology

Uniquely designed for Alaskans seeking a program focused on knowledge and skills to move immediately into careers in behavioral health, addictions treatment, and other related fields.

LEARN MORE

Health Sciences

There is a prominent workforce demand for Health Science professionals across Alaska. Career options for individuals interested in pursuing this field are as varied as the landscape of Alaska itself.

LEARN MORE

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

The Alaska Board of Nursing in keeping with statutes AS 08.68.100(a) and AS 08.62.290 and regulations 12 AAC 44.010 and 12 AAC 44.055, provides oversight and annual approval of nursing programs. All records were found to be in order. The Alaska Board of Nursing has issued full approval of APU’s Practical Nursing (LPN), ADN, and RN to BSN programs for 2025. Additionally, the Board approved the development of an LPN to RN bridge program. The Board fully supports the continuation of the nursing education program at Alaska Pacific University.

The LPN, ADN, and RN to BSN programs are accredited through:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

On-Time Program Completion Rate Based on RN-to-BSN Program Option

(Expected Level of Achievement = 60%)

*Program completion rate calculation for students who complete the program of study on time begins with calculating enrollment on the first day of the first nursing course and ends with the completion of the course required for conferral of a certificate, diploma, or degree.