Outer Coast is in a pivotal moment in our progress toward opening a two-year liberal arts college.
The undergraduate program is an opportunity for high school graduates to start their college careers in an engaged, rigorous, small community setting among a cohort of diverse peers. Over the course of their time in Sitka, undergraduates earn two years’ of college credit through a collaboration with the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS). Our undergraduate program launched in August 2024 and we currently have 15 students on campus completing a two-year course of study.
Our second undergraduate cohort will arrive in Sitka in August 2025 and will join an integrated Student Body of both first- and second-years. Students enroll in a full set of coursework that interweaves Indigenous and European ways of knowing led by dynamic faculty members; engage in long-term, committed service relationships with local community organizations and mentors; and self-govern the Outer Coast community through Student Body meetings, committee work, and collaborations with staffulty and community members. Students will live, learn, and work on the Sheldon Jackson / Sitka Fine Arts Campus.
Cost of Attendance
As with all Outer Coast programs, admissions for the Outer Coast 2025 undergraduate cohort will be need blind, and the program will offer a means-based cost of attendance model. Outer Coast will meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, ensuring that cost will not be a barrier to attendance. See the Cost and Affordability page for more details.
Eligibility
High school seniors and graduates / GED holders who have not yet completed a postsecondary degree are eligible for the Outer Coast undergraduate program. We are currently not able to accept international applications, sponsor visas, or enroll international students at the undergraduate program.
Credits and Degree
Students will earn up to 30 college credits during the 2025-2026 year and be in a position to transfer with up to 60 (two years of college credit) by the end of 2026-2027 academic year.
Dates
Students who enroll in fall 2025 will complete the two-year program in spring 2027.
The 2025-2026 academic year will have three terms, with breaks in between each term.
| Fishing Term | August – September 2025 |
| Fall Semester | September – December 2025 |
| Spring Semester | January – May 2026 |
Apply
The undergraduate application remains open and submitted applications will now be reviewed on a rolling basis.
