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Juneau, AK

Schools, degree programs and student life in Juneau, AK. Compare sponsored programs below, or tell us what you want to study.

Discover Juneau, AK

Juneau, AK – A breathtaking blend of rugged wilderness and coastal charm, Juneau is where glaciers meet the sea and adventure is always around the corner. From whale watching in the icy waters to exploring historic downtown, Alaska’s capital offers a stunning escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

  • Population: ~31,000
  • Weather: Cool and rainy year-round (25-65°F); mild summers, snowy winters.
  • Places To Visit: Mendenhall Glacier, Mount Roberts Tramway, Glacier Gardens, Alaska State Museum, Tracy Arm Fjord.
  • Top Activities: Hiking in Tongass National Forest, whale watching, dog sledding, fishing for salmon, exploring historic downtown.
  • Famous Food: Fresh Alaskan king crab, smoked salmon, reindeer sausage, halibut fish and chips, and locally brewed craft beer.

Fun facts

Juneau, Alaska, is a city filled with rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique facts that set it apart from other U.S. cities. From its remote location to its thriving wildlife, here are some fun facts about Juneau:

  1. No Roads In or Out – Juneau is the only U.S. state capital not accessible by road. You can only get there by boat or plane!
  2. Home to a Massive Glacier – The Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long glacier, is just a short drive from downtown Juneau.
  3. It’s Bigger Than Delaware – Juneau covers around 3,255 square miles, making it larger than the entire state of Delaware.
  4. Whales Are Frequent Visitors – Every summer, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Juneau to feed.
  5. The Capital Was Almost Moved – There have been several efforts to move Alaska’s capital from Juneau to Anchorage or another more connected city.
  6. Gold Rush Beginnings – Juneau was founded in 1880 after gold was discovered by Joe Juneau and Richard Harris.
  7. Rainy Days Are Common – Juneau gets an average of 230 days of rain each year!
  8. A Wildlife Paradise – The area around Juneau is home to more black bears than people!
  9. Famous for Salmon – Juneau is one of the best places in Alaska to fish for wild salmon.
  10. No Starbucks Drive-Thru – Despite being a capital city, Juneau has no Starbucks drive-thru, making it unique among U.S. capitals.

Jobs and careers

Juneau, the capital of Alaska, has a diverse economy driven by government, tourism, healthcare, and fishing. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in Juneau.

Job Title Average Salary Industry
Registered Nurse (RN) ~$90,000 Healthcare
Government Administrator ~$80,000 Government
Tourism & Hospitality Manager ~$65,000 Tourism & Hospitality
Commercial Fisher ~$60,000 Fishing
High School Teacher ~$58,000 Education

High schools

Juneau, AK, offers excellent high school options, ensuring students receive quality education and preparation for their future.

Top Public High Schools In Juneau, AK

  • Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé – A well-regarded school with strong academics, arts, and athletic programs.
  • Thunder Mountain High School – Known for its college prep courses, extracurricular activities, and student support programs.
  • Yaakoosge Daakahidi Alternative High School – Offers a personalized learning experience for students who thrive in non-traditional settings.
  • REACH Academy – A specialized program designed to support individual student needs and academic success.
  • HomeBRIDGE Homeschool Program – A public homeschooling option that provides resources and support for families educating their children at home.

Top Private High Schools In Juneau, AK

  • Juneau Community Charter School – A unique private school emphasizing innovative learning and student engagement.
  • Holy Trinity Episcopal School – Offers faith-based education combined with a rigorous academic curriculum.
  • Faith Community School – Provides a strong Christian-based education with small class sizes.
  • Glacier Valley Baptist Academy – A private institution focused on academic excellence and Christian values.
  • Thunder Mountain Academy – A private program dedicated to personalized learning experiences.

Colleges and universities

Juneau, Alaska, is home to top colleges and universities known for their commitment to education, research, and community engagement.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Juneau

University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) – A highly regarded public university offering programs in marine biology, environmental science, business, and education.

University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) – Juneau Extension – A branch of UAF providing specialized courses in environmental research and Arctic studies.

University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) – Juneau Programs – Offers degree programs and workforce development courses in health sciences, business, and public administration.

Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) – Juneau – Provides hands-on training in maritime programs, culinary arts, and technical trades.

Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kale (UAS Dual Enrollment Program) – A partnership with UAS, allowing high school students to take college-level courses for credit.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Juneau

Faith Bible College – A private religious institution focused on theological education, leadership training, and pastoral studies.

Alaska Pacific University (APU) – Juneau Programs – A private institution offering flexible degree programs in sustainability, outdoor studies, and business.

Southeast Alaska Christian College – A faith-based institution providing biblical studies and leadership programs.

Pacific Rim Christian University – Alaska Campus – A private Christian university offering programs in ministry, theology, and counseling.

Sheldon Jackson College (Historical) – Though now closed, this former private college had a long history of serving Alaska’s students with liberal arts education.

Places for students

Juneau, Alaska, is the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventurous activities, and chill spots for students. Between classes and exams, take some time to explore the incredible outdoors and relax with friends in this friendly coastal city.

Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area – This outdoor paradise offers easy hiking trails, picturesque viewpoints, and the stunning Nugget Falls. It's an ideal place for students to unwind, have a picnic, and take memorable photos.

Coppa Cafe – Located downtown, Coppa is a favorite student hangout. It's perfect for grabbing delicious handmade ice cream, coffee, and baked goodies. Meet up with friends or study in a cozy setting.

Eagle Beach – A laid-back spot to relax with friends, Eagle Beach offers wide sandy stretches and scenic views of mountains and ocean. Bring a frisbee, enjoy a bonfire, or just chill to the sound of waves.

Downtown Juneau & Front Street – Walkable streets packed with unique cafés, restaurants, shops, and art galleries. A happening area to grab a bite, shop, or just hang out and watch cruise ships roll in.

Mount Roberts Tramway – Hop aboard this fun tram ride with classmates for awesome panoramic views of Juneau. Once atop Mount Roberts, stretch your legs on a short hike, snap selfies, and dine at the mountaintop café.

Shrine of St. Therese – Just a short drive out of Juneau, this serene, scenic spot offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing, meditating, or just hanging out away from the bustle of the city. Keep an eye out for whales and sea otters!

Alaska State Museum – Discover Alaska's history and cultures at this engaging spot. It's great for a chill day indoors, exploring interesting exhibits and collections with your peers.

Juneau has plenty of options for students wanting to take a break and recharge in between studies. Whether you're into hikes, cozy cafés, or stunning nature spots, the city offers plenty of fun ways to chill and enjoy student life.

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