UAS Master's in Education: Programs, Costs, and Career Outcomes

Alaska’s persistent teacher shortage, with districts filling hundreds of emergency-certified positions each year, makes locally-rooted graduate pathways essential. The University of Alaska Southeast meets that need through CAEP-accredited M.Ed. programs in MAT, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy, designed specifically for the state’s rural and urban classrooms.

Flexible online and hybrid delivery accommodates working educators, while in-state tuition rates and stackable TEACH Grants and loan forgiveness keep costs manageable. For many Alaskan teachers, a UAS master’s is not just a credential; it’s the most direct route to a salary lane increase and a lasting impact where it’s needed most.

UAS School of Education: Accreditation and Value for Alaska Educators

For many Alaskan educators, the decision to pursue a graduate degree hinges on one central question: Will this program be recognized across state lines and lead to a license I can carry nationwide? The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) School of Education addresses this concern directly through its strong accreditation and alignment with state and national standards.

The School of Education's mission is to prepare culturally responsive teachers and leaders who can serve Alaska's diverse communities, including rural and Indigenous populations. This commitment is woven into every program, from the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) to the M.Ed. in Special Education and beyond.

CAEP Accreditation Means Portable Licensure

UAS holds Full Accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), valid through 2032.¹ This status was reaffirmed after a review in December 2025, covering both initial and advanced educator preparation programs.² CAEP accreditation is the national gold standard for teacher education, and it matters for two reasons. First, the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) requires completion of a CAEP-accredited program for initial teaching licensure³, so UAS graduates meet that bar. Second, many other states participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement and give extra weight to CAEP-accredited programs, which can streamline the reciprocity process when you apply for an out-of-state license.⁴ The school also maintains the CAEP-Alaska Partnership Agreement (2023-2030), a formal recognition that its programs align with state needs.⁴

Endorsements Aligned with Alaska's Needs

UAS offers a focused set of teaching endorsements that match the most critical shortage areas in the state. The School of Education awards endorsements in Elementary Education (K-8), Secondary Education (6-12), Special Education (K-12), Reading (K-12), Educational Leadership (K-12), and Superintendent (K-12). Because these endorsements are embedded within CAEP-accredited degree pathways, including the MAT, M.Ed., and graduate certificates, they hold full recognition by Alaska DEED. In 2025, UAS received the Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement⁵, highlighting the school's commitment to data-driven enhancements that directly benefit students and the communities they will serve.

Institutional Accountability: Net Price and Graduation Rates

Value extends beyond accreditation. The average net price for UAS students is $12,357, a figure that reflects tuition and fees after all financial aid is applied. This is substantially lower than many out-of-state affordable online M.Ed. programs. While UAS serves a largely part-time and non-traditional student body, and its overall six-year graduation rate of 28% reflects that context, the School of Education maintains rigorous program-level assessments. Graduates of UAS, across all majors, report median earnings of $48,475 a decade after initial enrollment. Although earnings specific to the MAT or M.Ed. are not yet published, the institution's accreditation track record and state partnerships signal that an education degree from UAS is a respected credential for advancing your teaching career, placing it among the top master's in education programs in Alaska and beyond.

UAS M.ed. Specializations: MAT, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy

For some educators, the goal is earning an initial teaching license and stepping into the classroom for the first time. For others, the priority is deepening expertise in a specific area after already holding a credential. The University of Alaska Southeast structures its M.Ed. offerings to serve both paths, with distinct program designs matched to career stage and professional objectives. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) leads to initial licensure, while the master's in special education and M.Ed. in Reading & Literacy build advanced skills for experienced teachers.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): Initial Licensure Pathway

The MAT in Elementary Education is designed for candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education and want to earn an Alaska K-8 teaching certificate. This hybrid program combines online coursework with required on-site experiences, including a one‑week summer residency in Juneau and a student teaching internship in the candidate’s own community. The 35‑credit curriculum covers foundations of teaching, classroom management, culturally responsive practices, and content‑specific methods.

Key program components include: - Entrance exams: Praxis Core and Praxis II content area assessments are required for admission¹. - GPA requirement: A minimum 3.00 undergraduate GPA. - Application materials: Two letters of recommendation, a $60 application fee, and documentation of relevant work experience. - Clinical practice: A full‑time student teaching internship, accompanied by a classroom research project and a professional portfolio. - Alaska context: An Alaska studies course is built into the program, and the curriculum emphasizes strategies for teaching in rural and Indigenous communities throughout the state.

Graduates of the MAT program are eligible for an Alaska initial teaching license in elementary education. The program’s design allows candidates to complete most coursework online while completing fieldwork in their own districts, making it accessible to students across Alaska’s widely dispersed communities.

M.Ed. in Special Education: Advanced Study for Inclusive Classrooms

For teachers who already hold a license and want to specialize in supporting students with disabilities, the M.Ed. in Special Education provides a 39‑credit, graduate‑level sequence². The program is headquartered in Alaska and emphasizes high‑incidence disabilities, assessment, and individualized instruction. A distinctive feature is the embedded Graduate Certificate³, which lets students earn a stand‑alone credential while progressing through the master’s degree.

Required coursework addresses legal and ethical foundations of special education, behavioral intervention, collaboration with families and service providers, and instructional adaptation. Because many Alaska classrooms are culturally diverse, the curriculum weaves in practices for working with Alaska Native students and English learners. While the program does not lead to an initial teaching license, it may prepare candidates for an endorsement in special education, depending on prior credentials and state requirements.

M.Ed. in Reading & Literacy: Coaching and Intervention Expertise

The 30‑credit M.Ed. in Reading & Literacy⁴ is tailored for licensed teachers who want to become literacy leaders, reading specialists, or instructional coaches. The program grounds candidates in research‑based literacy instruction, assessment, and intervention for K-12 settings. A culminating requirement is the Praxis II Reading Specialist (5302) exam⁴, which aligns with state expectations for reading endorsement.

Coursework covers developmental reading, diagnosis of reading difficulties, literacy across content areas, and coaching strategies for working with colleagues. With a minimum GPA of 3.00 required⁴, the program attracts experienced educators aiming to strengthen schoolwide literacy outcomes. The focus on evidence‑based practice ensures graduates can design tiered interventions and support varied learner needs, including those of Alaska Native students and students in remote, multi‑grade classrooms.

Integrating Alaska Native Perspectives and Rural Readiness

Across all three specializations, UAS faculty embed Alaska Native perspectives and place‑based learning. That means assignments often ask candidates to adapt strategies for village schools, incorporate Indigenous knowledge systems, and address the realities of teaching in communities where access to resources may be limited. For MAT candidates, the rural teaching practicum placements provide immediate experience in culturally sustaining pedagogy. For M.Ed. students, elective options and project work frequently allow a deep dive into topics such as Yup’ik or Tlingit language and culture, aligning with the university’s mission to serve Southeast Alaska and beyond.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid at UAS

How much does a University of Alaska Southeast master's in education actually cost, and what financial aid can help reduce the price? Understanding the full picture of tuition, fees, and funding opportunities is essential before you apply. While exact figures shift annually, this guide lays out the key cost categories and where to find official numbers so you can plan with confidence.

Understanding UAS Graduate Tuition by Residency Status

Per-credit tuition for UAS graduate education programs depends on your residency status. Alaska residents typically pay the lowest rate, while non-residents face a higher per-credit charge. Students from participating Western states may qualify for tuition through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) or similar graduate-level reciprocal agreements, bringing the cost closer to the resident rate. Mandatory fees, covering technology, student services, and campus facilities, are added on top of tuition each semester.

For the most accurate and current per-credit rates, visit the UAS Office of the Bursar website. Look for the graduate tuition schedule, which breaks down costs by residency classification. Remember that online learners may have a different fee structure than on-campus students, so check the specifics for your delivery format.

Estimating Total Program Costs for Each M.Ed. Specialization

Total program cost goes beyond per-credit tuition. You should also account for: - Mandatory fees: These recurring charges can add a significant amount each semester. - Books and materials: Budget for textbooks, software, and any specialized resources required by your courses. - Living expenses: If you are relocating or studying full-time on campus, factor in housing, transportation, and personal costs.

The UAS Graduate School's program pages often include estimated total costs for each M.Ed. track, including the MAT, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy specializations. These estimates combine tuition, fees, and an allowance for books over the entire program length. Use these projections as a baseline, then adjust for your personal situation.

Securing Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, and UAS-Specific Opportunities

Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal loans and work-study. Beyond that, UAS offers several targeted funding sources: - TEACH Grants: If you plan to teach in a high-need field at a low-income school, the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant can provide substantial support, but be aware of the service obligation. - Alaska Teacher Loan Forgiveness: Educators teaching in eligible Alaska districts may qualify for loan forgiveness programs administered by the state, reducing your long-term debt burden. - Graduate assistantships: A limited number of positions may be available within the School of Education, offering tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for research or administrative work. Contact the graduate coordinator early for availability. - Scholarships: UAS's Financial Aid office maintains a list of institutional and private scholarships. Some are specifically reserved for graduate education students, while others are need- or merit-based.

Comparing Costs and Salary Outlooks Beyond UAS

To put UAS costs into context, compare them with other Alaska institutions like University of Alaska Anchorage and University of Alaska Fairbanks, and with national averages using resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and professional education associations. These sources provide data on teacher salaries by region and specialty, helping you estimate your return on investment. While the upfront cost matters, long-term earning potential and job placement rates are equally critical. UAS's career services office can often provide job placement data for recent education graduates, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect after graduation.

Admission Requirements and Application Deadlines

The application process for University of Alaska Southeast’s master’s in education programs is straightforward but has several key components. Here’s a summary of what you’ll need to submit.

• Bachelor’s degree

  From an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Most programs require a bachelor's in education or a closely related field.
• Official transcripts

  Send official transcripts directly to UAS Graduate Studies from all previously attended institutions.
• Statement of purpose

  A written statement explaining your career goals and fit with the program. For the M.Ed. in Special Education, the statement is typically 3–5 pages (1500 words).
• Letters of recommendation

  Two letters of recommendation are required, usually from academic or professional references who can speak to your teaching or leadership potential.
• Resume or CV

  A current resume or curriculum vitae highlighting relevant teaching, educational, or leadership experience.
• Teaching certificate

  Most M.Ed. programs require a valid teaching certificate. Verify this requirement for your chosen specialization.
• Test scores

  No standardized entrance exam (such as the GRE) is required for UAS education master’s programs.
• Application deadlines

  Deadlines vary by program and cohort start. For the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, the deadline is April 1. Check your program’s page for fall, spring, or summer start dates.

Online, Hybrid, and On-Campus: Choosing Your Format

Graduate education programs often fall into two camps: fully online degrees that offer maximum flexibility, and on-campus programs that provide face-to-face mentorship and networking. UAS bridges these extremes with hybrid and online options tailored to Alaska’s needs.

Delivery Formats for UAS M.Ed. Programs

UAS offers several Master of Education pathways, each with a distinct delivery format. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education is a hybrid program, combining online coursework with two key in-person components: a one-week summer residency on the Juneau campus and a student teaching internship completed in a K-8 classroom.

Other specializations, such as the M.Ed. in Special Education and the master's in reading and literacy, are often available fully online, making them especially accessible for teachers in remote Alaska communities or those with full-time jobs. Since program formats can change, check the UAS School of Education website for the latest delivery details before applying.

Flexibility for Working Educators in Alaska

Alaska’s geography creates unique challenges for educators seeking advanced degrees. The hybrid MAT design acknowledges this reality. Online courses allow you to continue teaching or working while you study, eliminating the need to relocate or commute to campus for most of the program. The short summer residency concentrates face-to-face learning into a single intensive week, strengthening peer connections and collaboration with faculty.

Remote students, including those in bush communities, can participate fully in the online portions as long as they have reliable internet. This flexibility makes a UAS master’s degree feasible for teachers spread across the state’s vast distances.

Field Placement and Student Teaching Requirements

All teacher preparation programs require real-world classroom experience. For the MAT, the student teaching internship is a capstone requirement that must be arranged at a school site. UAS works with district partners across Alaska to place candidates in K-8 settings reasonably near their residence. For in-state students, this typically means a placement within your current district or a neighboring one.

Out-of-state students should note that the MAT is designed primarily for Alaska residents and leads to an Alaska teaching certificate. While it may be possible to complete the internship outside Alaska with program approval, doing so requires careful coordination. Expect to satisfy all Alaska-specific requirements, including an Alaska studies course and Praxis exams. If you plan to teach in another state after graduation, research how an Alaska certificate transfers. Reciprocity agreements vary.

Career Outcomes and Salary Potential for UAS Education Graduates

What can you earn with a Master’s in Education from the University of Alaska Southeast?

Employment and Common Roles

UAS reports an 85% employment rate for graduates of its School of Education¹, with many alumni working in Alaska public schools. Common job titles include elementary school teacher, special education teacher, reading specialist, and instructional coach, all prominent jobs for masters in education. The hybrid Master of Arts in Teaching program prepares candidates for Alaska K-8 certification, and graduates often start in high-need rural and urban districts across the state.

Earnings and Salary Progression

Alaska teacher salary schedules typically reward advanced degrees. While starting salaries vary by district, the median annual wage for UAS grade-specific education master’s graduates stands at $57,556, higher than the national median of $52,763 for the same field,² according to a masters in education salary analysis. As educators accumulate experience and earn additional endorsements, such as reading specialist or special education, they can move into roles with higher pay bands. Program-level earnings data are not yet published, but the strong institutional outcomes suggest solid returns.

Career Advancement Opportunities

A UAS master’s degree can unlock leadership positions beyond the classroom. Graduates commonly progress to roles like reading specialist, special education coordinator, or curriculum developer. Some pursue administrative credentials or doctoral studies, further increasing earning potential. The university’s partnerships with school districts and its CAEP accreditation enhance credentials and open doors to mentorship and leadership pipelines.

Certification and Licensure Pass Rates

While UAS does not publicly release detailed PRAXIS pass rates, the program’s curriculum is aligned with Alaska teacher certification requirements and includes extensive preparation for content-area exams. The high employment rate suggests that most graduates successfully obtain teaching licensure and find teaching positions shortly after completing their degrees.

UAS Vs. UAA Vs. UAF: Comparing Alaska MAT Programs

Alaska’s three public universities each offer Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) programs, but their focus areas, delivery formats, and student outcomes differ. Understanding these distinctions helps aspiring teachers choose the path that aligns with their career goals and location.

Program Offerings and Delivery Formats

University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) provides two MAT pathways: a Secondary/Middle Grades MAT delivered in a hybrid format¹, and a Special Education MAT offered fully online². University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) also offers a Secondary Education MAT in a hybrid mode³. University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) maintains MAT options as well, though specific track details and delivery modes for current cohorts are not consolidated in a single public source. Across the system, hybrid and online delivery reflect a commitment to serving geographically dispersed students, especially those in rural districts.

Credit Requirements and Time to Completion

Alaska MAT programs typically range from 30 to 40 credits, with full-time students completing in 12 to 24 months. Exact credit loads vary by specialization and whether the program includes an internship or student teaching component. For example, a secondary MAT with certification may require a longer clinical placement, extending the timeline slightly. Because each campus structures its curriculum independently, prospective students should verify program length and credit totals directly with the respective School of Education.

Tuition and Costs

In-state graduate tuition within the University of Alaska system follows common base rates, but per-credit charges vary by campus and program. As of the most recent academic year, UAS graduate tuition for education courses is around $513 per credit, while UAF and UAA rates fall in a similar range. Total estimated tuition for a 30-credit MAT would be approximately $15,000 to $20,000 for Alaska residents, excluding fees, books, and other expenses. Non-resident rates are significantly higher. All three universities participate in federal financial aid, TEACH Grants, and state-level loan forgiveness programs, which can substantially offset costs.

Licensure Exam Pass Rates and Outcomes

Alaska requires teacher candidates to meet the Praxis exam requirements for content-area licensure. While the University of Alaska system tracks individual candidate readiness, aggregate first-time pass rates for MAT programs at UAS, UAA, and UAF are not centrally published for direct comparison. Students typically receive close advising and support to meet testing benchmarks, and all programs embed exam preparation within coursework. Without standardized outcome data, candidates should discuss recent pass rate trends with program advisors to gauge how well each campus supports licensure success.

Alaska Teacher Licensure and UAS District Partnerships

After finishing a UAS M.Ed., the road to teaching in Alaska officially begins with teacher certification. The process is straightforward but requires careful attention to paperwork, testing, and field experience. UAS not only prepares you academically but also supports your transition into the classroom through structured partnerships and licensure guidance.

Certification Steps

Alaska uses the TEACH AK online system for all teacher certification applications.¹ To qualify, you must complete a state-approved educator preparation program, and UAS verifies your program completion directly to the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, following Applying for Certification steps. You can request that verification by emailing [email protected].

Applicants need to pass the Praxis Core (or CASE) exam and the Praxis II content assessment in their intended teaching area.¹ Both are required for admission to UAS programs, so you will have them completed before you start your M.Ed. After that, submit a background check: a fingerprint card processed through the state, with a $60 fee.² The certification application itself costs $200.²

Once certified, new teachers have two years to complete additional coursework in Alaska studies and multicultural education,¹ which is built into many UAS programs but may require independent completion if not already covered. For help with the application or to check status, call (907) 465-2831.¹

Student Teaching and District Partnerships

UAS maintains formal student teaching placement agreements with school districts across Alaska, with a strong emphasis on rural and high-need schools.³ These partnerships give you hands-on experience in the communities where teachers are most needed. A student teaching authorization is required, and UAS coordinates placements that align with your specialization and career goals. This network ensures you are classroom-ready upon graduation and often leads to job offers.

Alaska Teacher Incentives

Teaching in Alaska comes with several financial benefits. The state offers loan forgiveness programs through the Alaska Student Loan Corporation for educators who teach in high-need subject areas or remote rural districts. These can substantially reduce or eliminate student debt after a few years of service. Additionally, teachers in rural and remote schools typically earn higher salaries than their urban counterparts, reflecting the unique challenges and cost of living in those areas. Grants and other stipends may also be available for special education, math, science, and early childhood educators. UAS advisors can help you identify and apply for these incentives as part of your career planning.

Frequently Asked Questions About UAS Master's in Education

Find answers to common questions about the University of Alaska Southeast Master's in Education programs, from accreditation and admission to cost and career outcomes.

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With an 85% employment rate for School of Education graduates, the University of Alaska Southeast delivers a master’s pathway grounded in Alaska’s classroom realities. CAEP accreditation ensures your degree holds value across state lines, while online and hybrid formats make advanced study accessible from even the most remote communities. Stack TEACH Grants and Alaska Teacher Loan Forgiveness to reduce costs, and choose from MAT, special education, and reading literacy tracks aligned with high-need teaching areas. When you’re ready to apply, visit the UAS program pages to review admission steps and start your next chapter in Alaska education.