MASTER OF ARTS IN ARCTIC & NORTHERN STUDIES

More than ever before, research critical to humanity’s survival is taking place in the Arctic and sub-Arctic. In recent years, as climate change has threatened the global environment, the world’s eyes have turned to the Arctic, where the pace of warming is more than double that elsewhere in the world. Similarly, threats from environmental pollution are also magnified in the Arctic.

Residents of the circumpolar north don’t have to imagine how climate change and environmental pollution might affect them in a decade or two. Communities are already experiencing the devastating effects of coastal erosion, sea ice melt, crumbling infrastructure resulting from melting permafrost, and the most destructive wildfires on record, while toxins accumulate within their traditional foods.

This fully online program provides students the opportunity to study these and many other compelling issues in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. By connecting with supportive faculty experts in history, political science, Alaska Native studies, anthropology, English and geography, you will develop knowledge of the circumpolar region and become an expert in your chosen field of concentration, while sharpening your analytical, critical thinking and writing skills.

Welcome to Distance Learning at UA. Distance education is an important and growing part of the University of Alaska’s mission. Whether you want to complete your degree, make yourself more marketable, or sharpen a few skills, we can help you achieve your goal.

The three main campuses of the University of Alaska System provide undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, occupational endorsements, and courses, which may be completed entirely online or in blended formats.