Alaska Bible College: $10,930 Tuition

$10,930Tuition

34Students

100%Grad Rate (6-yr)

#1 in AlaskaPrivate nonprofit4-yearData: 2023-24Undenominational

About Alaska Bible College

Alaska Bible College prepares students for Christian ministry in one of America's most remote settings. With just 34 students enrolled, this undenominational institution offers an intimate learning environment in Palmer, Alaska. The college maintains a 5:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention for those studying biblical studies and ministry preparation. Every graduate completes their degree within six years, reflecting the college's focused mission and small cohort approach.

The financial picture varies dramatically by family income. Students from families earning $48-75K pay an average of $8,175 after aid, making it surprisingly affordable for middle-income families. However, those from higher-income families ($75-110K) face costs of $20,012. Only 48% of students receive financial aid, and just 18% receive institutional grants averaging $3,040. The low federal loan rate of 13% suggests most students either pay out of pocket or receive substantial family support.

The college faces significant retention challenges, with only 33% of students returning for their second year. This small Christian community draws 86% of its students from Alaska, creating a tight-knit environment where 56% are men and 85% are white. On-campus housing accommodates just 20 students, reinforcing the college's family-like atmosphere.

Academics & Faculty

Alaska Bible College centers its academics entirely around biblical studies and ministry preparation. The school offers a 5:1 student-faculty ratio that creates an intimate learning environment where professors know every student personally. With just 34 enrolled students, classes operate more like small seminars than traditional lectures. The college achieves a remarkable 100% six-year graduation rate, reflecting the close mentorship students receive in their biblical and theological coursework. However, the 33% retention rate suggests the intensive Christian education model isn't for everyone. Students pursue degrees in biblical studies, ministry, and pastoral training designed specifically for those called to Christian service in Alaska's unique mission field.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 5:1
Graduation Rate (6-year): 100.0%
Retention Rate: 33.3%
Carnegie Classification: Associate College (High Transfer)

Campus Life

Palmer sits 42 miles northeast of Anchorage in the shadow of the Chugach Mountains. The 34 students at Alaska Bible College experience true small-town Alaska life, where winter temperatures regularly drop below zero and you'll need serious cold-weather gear from October through March. With housing for just 20 students, 59% live on campus in tight-knit dormitories that feel more like family homes.

The 5:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know everyone by name and often join students for meals and evening discussions. Weekend activities revolve around outdoor Alaska adventures when weather permits - hiking, fishing, and exploring the vast wilderness that defines this state. During harsh winter months, students gather in common areas for Bible study groups, board games, and community worship. The 33% retention rate reflects the intense, focused nature of biblical education here and the reality that Alaska's isolation isn't for everyone. Students who thrive here embrace both rigorous ministry preparation and the rugged beauty of frontier living.

Setting: Suburb-Small
Housing Capacity: 20 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Founded: 1966

Campus Safety (2023)

No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 8°–22°F
July Avg: 50°–67°F
Annual Precipitation: 12.6"
Annual Snowfall: 82.5"

Student Demographics

Most students come from Alaska, drawn by the college's reputation as the state's primary destination for Christian ministry training. The student body splits roughly evenly between men and women, reflecting the college's emphasis on preparing both pastors and lay leaders for church work. Nearly half of students receive Pell Grants, indicating the school serves families of modest means who prioritize biblical education. The overwhelmingly white demographic mirrors Alaska's rural Christian communities, where many graduates return to serve in ministry roles throughout the state's remote villages and towns.

Men: 55.9%
Women: 44.1%
White: 85.3%
Black: 2.9%
Hispanic: 2.9%
Asian: 0.0%
In-State Students: 85.7%
Pell Grant Recipients: 48.7%

Location

Palmer sits 42 miles northeast of Anchorage in Alaska's Matanuska-Susitna Valley. The college draws 85.71% of its students from within Alaska. Palmer represents classic small-town Alaska with a population around 7,000 people. The area is known for its agricultural heritage and giant vegetables grown during Alaska's long summer days. The Chugach and Talmeetna mountain ranges frame the valley. Students experience true Alaskan wilderness with moose commonly wandering through town. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from October through March. The college's suburban-small setting offers a tight-knit community feel. Students considering colleges in Alaska may also compare Alaska Bible College with similar schools in the region.

Address: Palmer, Alaska 99645

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the student experience like at Alaska Bible College?

Alaska Bible College enrolls just 34 students total, creating an intimate learning environment. The college maintains a 5:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention in biblical studies and ministry preparation. However, the retention rate sits at 33%, suggesting the intense focus and small setting may not suit every student.

How much does Alaska Bible College cost after financial aid?

Tuition costs $10,930 annually, with total attendance reaching $18,330 including room and board. Nearly half of students (48.72%) receive financial aid, bringing the average net price down to $14,093. Families earning $48-75K pay less at $8,175 after aid.

What are the academic programs like at Alaska Bible College?

The college focuses exclusively on biblical studies and ministry training as an undenominational Christian institution. With only 34 students and a 5:1 faculty ratio, classes operate more like seminars than lectures. The curriculum prepares students for pastoral work, missions, and Christian ministry roles.

What are the graduation outcomes at Alaska Bible College?

The college boasts a perfect 100% six-year graduation rate for students who stay enrolled. However, this figure reflects the small student body of 34 and the specialized nature of biblical education. The 33% retention rate indicates many students transfer or leave before completing their degrees.

Where do students live at Alaska Bible College?

The campus housing capacity serves only 20 students out of the total enrollment of 34. Room and board costs $7,000 annually, which is relatively affordable for Alaska. Most students (85.71%) come from in-state, reflecting the college's role in training local Alaskan ministry leaders.

Is Alaska Bible College diverse in its student body?

The student population is 85.29% white with limited racial diversity overall. Men slightly outnumber women at 55.88% versus 44.12%, which is typical for ministry-focused programs. The college draws primarily from Alaska's predominantly white population, with 85.71% of students coming from in-state.