Bachelor in General Studies - Exploratory Major (BS)

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is a research-focused public university known for strengths in Arctic studies, environmental science, engineering and natural resources. Founded in 1917 and located in Fairbanks, UAF combines rigorous academics with hands-on learning, making it a strong choice for students who want immersive research experiences and fieldwork opportunities. The campus community supports interdisciplinary study and encourages students to contribute to real-world solutions for northern and global challenges.

UAF offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and emphasizes applied research tied to regional needs, including climate science, renewable energy and indigenous studies. International students benefit from a close-knit campus environment, laboratory and field research opportunities, and access to specialized centers that focus on northern systems. Collaboration with faculty on funded projects is common, providing pathways to professional development, publications and practical skills valued by employers and graduate programs.

Living in Fairbanks gives students access to unique cultural and outdoor experiences, from aurora viewing to wilderness research sites, while local services support international student integration. Prospective international applicants should review program prerequisites, research opportunities and funding options, and connect with advisors in their department. UAF's emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement makes it a compelling option for students drawn to environmental research, engineering challenges and Arctic-focused scholarship.

The Bachelor in General Studies - Exploratory Major is a great option for students who are unsure about their major. This program is for students who want to explore their options before choosing a major, and it's a popular choice, with about a third of all incoming students at the University of Alaska Fairbanks starting as exploratory or general studies majors. The program is a bachelor's degree that typically takes four years to complete.

The curriculum for this program allows students to take a variety of classes to help them decide on a major. Students can take classes in fields like engineering, statistics, natural resource management, and fisheries, which can help them figure out what they want to study. This program is a good choice for students who think they might want to major in a STEM field.

Students who complete this program can go on to work in a variety of fields, including engineering, statistics, and natural resource management. Some possible job titles for graduates include fisheries biologist, statistician, and natural resource manager. They can work for government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations, and can even go on to pursue graduate degrees in their chosen field.