Alaska Pacific University (APU), located in Anchorage, Alaska, stands as a unique institution in higher education, emphasizing experiential learning and real-world application. Founded in 1957, APU has built a reputation for small class sizes, personalized attention, and programs that integrate adventure with academics. For job seekers interested in higher ed jobs, APU offers a range of faculty, administrative, and support positions that appeal to those passionate about innovative teaching and community impact in the Last Frontier state.
The university's commitment to hands-on education means roles often involve field work, interdisciplinary collaboration, and student mentorship beyond traditional classrooms. Whether you're eyeing lecturer jobs or administrative positions, APU's environment fosters growth in a stunning natural setting, surrounded by mountains and wildlife that inspire its outdoor-focused curriculum.
Originally established as Alaska Methodist University, APU transitioned to its current name in 1978 to reflect its broader appeal. Situated on 170 acres in Anchorage, it serves around 500 students with undergraduate and graduate degrees. The mission centers on 'adventure-based learning,' where students learn by doing—think backpacking expeditions for leadership courses or kayaking for environmental studies. This philosophy shapes job roles, requiring faculty to blend academic rigor with practical adventures.
Over the years, APU has evolved, gaining accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and pioneering programs like the Master of Science in Sustainable Energy. For professionals, this history means opportunities to contribute to a dynamic, evolving institution with a track record of adapting to Alaska's unique challenges, such as remote learning in rural areas.
APU's offerings include Bachelor’s degrees in Outdoor Studies, Counseling Psychology, Business Administration, and Education, plus Master’s in K-8 Education and Psychology. These programs demand faculty with expertise in experiential pedagogy, where teaching happens in Alaska's wilderness—glaciers, forests, and coastal waters. Job openings often prioritize candidates who can lead field-based courses, making it ideal for those with adventure credentials alongside academic ones.
Research roles focus on Alaska-specific issues like climate change impacts on indigenous communities or sustainable resource management. Staff positions support these through advising, admissions, and operations, ensuring the university's intimate community thrives.
Jobs at Alaska Pacific University span faculty, staff, and leadership. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, adjunct lecturers, and visiting scholars in core areas. Administrative roles cover admissions, financial aid, and student services. For a full breakdown, explore university job types.
Current openings often appear on APU's career page, with emphasis on roles supporting experiential learning. Salaries are competitive for Alaska, averaging $70,000-$90,000 for assistant professors, per regional data.
To secure jobs at Alaska Pacific University, candidates need strong academic credentials. Faculty positions typically require a PhD in the relevant field, such as psychology or education, or a terminal degree like an MFA for creative roles. For example, outdoor studies faculty often hold advanced degrees in recreation management or environmental science.
Research focus should align with APU's priorities: experiential education, sustainability, and Alaska-native studies. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding from sources like the National Science Foundation, and teaching in non-traditional settings. Skills like grant writing, curriculum development for field courses, and cultural competency with Alaska Native communities are essential. Competencies in leadership, adaptability to remote fieldwork, and student-centered mentoring set candidates apart.
Staff roles demand bachelor's degrees minimum, with master's preferred for senior positions, plus experience in higher ed administration or student affairs.
Applying for jobs at APU starts with monitoring their careers portal at apu.edu. Submit a cover letter highlighting experiential learning fit, CV detailing field experience, teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Interviews may include a teaching demonstration or simulated adventure activity.
Timeline: Applications reviewed year-round, with peak hiring in spring for fall starts. Patience is key in small institutions.
APU actively promotes diversity through its Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Council, recruiting underrepresented minorities in STEM and education. Initiatives include scholarships for Alaska Native students, cultural competency training for staff, and partnerships with tribal organizations. Recent efforts feature gender-balanced hiring goals and LGBTQ+ support groups, fostering an inclusive campus where faculty from diverse backgrounds thrive.
APU's small size (500 students) means collaborative, low-stress environment with flexible hours for faculty to balance research and teaching. Campus life revolves around community events, ski trips, and aurora viewings. Benefits include generous vacation, health coverage, tuition remission for dependents, and retirement matching. Anchorage offers hiking, fishing, and urban amenities, ideal for adventure lovers. Employees report high satisfaction due to meaningful work impacting Alaska's future.
Alaska Pacific University provides rewarding university jobs in a supportive, adventure-rich setting. From faculty roles emphasizing hands-on learning to administrative positions supporting student success, opportunities abound for qualified professionals. Leverage higher ed career advice for success. Institutions like APU seek passionate educators; explore higher ed jobs broadly. Ready to apply? Visit post a job if hiring, or check listings today.
Connect related insights: For lecturer paths, see become a university lecturer. Employer branding tips at employer branding secrets.
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