1. Arizona State University (ASU)
Overview
Location: Tempe, Arizona
Founded in 1885, Arizona State University (ASU) is a public research university and one of the largest in the U.S. Known for its innovation, ASU has consistently ranked among the most forward-thinking institutions in the world. With multiple campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area, ASU is famous for its research in sustainability, engineering, business, and public policy.
ASU is a leader in online education and is often recognized for its accessibility and commitment to inclusion.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #105 National Universities
- Number of Students: Over 74,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Average SAT Score: 1120-1360
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Sun Devils Athletics
- Entrepreneurship and innovation clubs
- Sustainability initiatives
- Greek life
- Barrett, The Honors College programs
Famous Alumni
- Jimmy Kimmel – Comedian and TV host
- Kate Spade – Fashion designer
- David Spade – Actor and comedian
- Phil Mickelson – Professional golfer
- Pat Tillman – NFL player and military hero
Top Employers
- Intel
- Amazon
- Honeywell
- Deloitte
- State of Arizona
2. University of Arizona (UA)
Overview
Location: Tucson, Arizona
Founded in 1885, the University of Arizona (UA) is the state’s first public university. UA is known for its research in fields such as space exploration, optical sciences, environmental studies, and health sciences. The university’s partnership with NASA has earned it a strong reputation in planetary sciences and astronomy.
UA is also famous for its vibrant campus life and sports programs, particularly in basketball and softball.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #108 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 45,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Average SAT Score: 1090-1350
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Wildcats Athletics
- NASA-funded research programs
- Greek life
- Environmental and sustainability clubs
- Campus arts and culture events
Famous Alumni
- Kourtney Kardashian – Media personality
- Kristen Wiig – Actress and comedian
- Bob Dole – Former U.S. Senator
- Rob Gronkowski – NFL player
- Richard Jefferson – NBA player and analyst
Top Employers
- Raytheon Technologies
- Banner Health
- Tucson Unified School District
- University of Arizona Health Sciences
- Northrop Grumman
3. Northern Arizona University (NAU)
Overview
Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
Founded in 1899, Northern Arizona University (NAU) is known for its strong programs in education, environmental science, and forestry. Located in the mountain town of Flagstaff, NAU offers students a unique educational experience surrounded by the natural beauty of Arizona’s forests and canyons.
NAU is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and providing a personalized education experience through smaller class sizes.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #284 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 29,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Average SAT Score: 1020-1220
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- NAU Lumberjacks Athletics
- Outdoor recreation clubs (hiking, skiing)
- Sustainability initiatives
- Greek life
- Performing arts and music programs
Famous Alumni
- Diana Gabaldon – Author of the Outlander series
- Seamus Dever – Actor (Castle)
- Raúl Héctor Castro – Former Arizona Governor and U.S. Ambassador
- Jake Sullivan – National Security Advisor
- James F. Ammons – University administrator
Top Employers
- Northern Arizona Healthcare
- Arizona Department of Education
- U.S. Forest Service
- W.L. Gore & Associates
- Flagstaff Unified School District
4. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott
Overview
Location: Prescott, Arizona
Founded in 1978, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott campus specializes in aviation and aerospace education. As one of the leading institutions for aviation, aerospace engineering, and security studies, Embry-Riddle offers cutting-edge programs that attract students interested in aeronautics, space exploration, and defense industries.
The Prescott campus is renowned for its flight training programs and advanced facilities for aerospace research.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #6 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: Around 3,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 61%
- Average SAT Score: 1150-1350
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Flight training and aviation clubs
- Aerospace engineering clubs
- Cybersecurity competitions
- Air traffic control simulation teams
- Prescott Eagles Athletics
Famous Alumni
- Nicole Stott – NASA astronaut
- Erin Cebula – TV host and entertainment reporter
- Daniel Jewett – Philanthropist
- Jeff Webb – Founder of Varsity Spirit
- Robert Sumwalt – Former NTSB Chairman
Top Employers
- Boeing
- Lockheed Martin
- Delta Air Lines
- NASA
- U.S. Department of Defense
5. Grand Canyon University (GCU)
Overview
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a private Christian university founded in 1949. Known for its rapid growth and focus on online education, GCU offers a wide range of degree programs, from business and healthcare to education and liberal arts. Its strong emphasis on integrating faith with learning attracts students seeking a Christian-based education.
GCU is also recognized for its state-of-the-art campus facilities and vibrant student life.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #331-440 National Universities
- Number of Students: Over 100,000 (including online students)
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Average SAT Score: 1000-1230
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Lopes Athletics
- Campus ministry and service programs
- Greek life
- Performing arts and music programs
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
Famous Alumni
- Lopez Lomong – Olympic athlete
- Larry Fitzgerald – NFL wide receiver
- Trevor Brazile – Professional rodeo cowboy
- Brad Cesmat – Sports broadcaster
- Becky Hammon – WNBA coach
Top Employers
- Dignity Health
- Wells Fargo
- Honeywell
- GCU
- Banner Health
6. Arizona Christian University (ACU)
Overview
Location: Glendale, Arizona
Arizona Christian University (ACU) is a private Christian university founded in 1960. The school integrates faith into all areas of education, and its academic programs focus on liberal arts, ministry, and business. ACU is known for its personalized approach to education, small class sizes, and close-knit campus community.
The university places a strong emphasis on leadership development and service in Christian contexts.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #18 Regional Colleges West
- Number of Students: Around 800
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 63%
- Average SAT Score: 930-1170
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Firestorm Athletics
- Ministry and service projects
- Worship teams and campus ministries
- Business and leadership clubs
- Outdoor adventure clubs
Famous Alumni
- Steve Green – CEO of Hobby Lobby
- David Jeremiah – Author and pastor
- Danny White – Former NFL quarterback
- Sam Acho – NFL linebacker and author
- Jim Schultz – Founder of Christian Financial Resources
Top Employers
- Phoenix-area churches
- Glendale Unified School District
- ACU itself
- American Express
- State of Arizona
7. Prescott College
Overview
Location: Prescott, Arizona
Founded in 1966, Prescott College is known for its focus on environmental studies, social justice, and experiential learning. The college is a small liberal arts institution with a mission to educate students in fields such as sustainability, environmental science, and adventure education.
Prescott College emphasizes hands-on learning, with many programs incorporating outdoor experiences and fieldwork.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked
- Number of Students: Around 800
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Outdoor adventure clubs (hiking, rock climbing)
- Environmental sustainability projects
- Social justice and advocacy groups
- Adventure education programs
- Study abroad programs
Famous Alumni
- Lynne Twist – Author and global activist
- Brad Lancaster – Author and permaculture expert
- Jim Mallon – Producer of Mystery Science Theater 3000
- Craig Childs – Author and wilderness explorer
- Mary Sojourner – Novelist and essayist
Top Employers
- U.S. Forest Service
- Arizona Conservation Corps
- Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
- The Nature Conservancy
- Prescott College
8. American Indian College of the Assemblies of God
Overview
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
American Indian College of the Assemblies of God (AIC) is a private Christian college founded in 1957, dedicated to serving Native American students. It offers a unique cultural and academic environment, focusing on Christian ministry, education, and social work.
AIC’s mission is to empower Native American students with education while preserving cultural values and traditions.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked
- Number of Students: Around 70
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate degrees only
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Ministry and worship teams
- Native American cultural organizations
- Community outreach programs
- Spiritual retreats
- Christian service projects
Famous Alumni
- Ivan Dozier – Native American pastor and leader
- Catherine Bear Eagle – Educator and author
- Jerry Yellowhawk – Tribal council member
- Florence Keel – Christian minister
- Ralph Firecloud – Native American artist
Top Employers
- Tribal organizations
- Assemblies of God churches
- Phoenix-area ministries
- Local schools and nonprofits
- American Indian College
9. Southwest University of Visual Arts
Overview
Location: Tucson, Arizona
Southwest University of Visual Arts (SUVA) is a private art and design university founded in 1983. The school offers specialized programs in graphic design, animation, photography, and fine arts. SUVA is known for fostering creativity and innovation, preparing students for careers in the visual arts industry.
The university provides students with hands-on learning experiences through internships and partnerships with creative companies.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked
- Number of Students: Around 250
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Art exhibitions and galleries
- Photography clubs
- Graphic design competitions
- Film and animation projects
- Community art outreach
Famous Alumni
- Jim Horwitz – Cartoonist
- Wendy Willis Baldwin – Graphic designer
- Juan Carlos Hernandez – Photographer
- Mary Beth Plumlee – Fine artist
- Daniella Henkel – Animator
Top Employers
- Pixar Animation Studios
- Adobe
- Walt Disney Studios
- Apple
- Local design firms
10. Scottsdale Community College (SCC)
Overview
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale Community College (SCC) is a public community college founded in 1970. It is known for its strong programs in the arts, hospitality, and technology. SCC provides students with a range of two-year associate degrees and certifications that prepare them for transfer to four-year universities or entry into the workforce.
The college’s location near the thriving city of Scottsdale allows students to engage in internships and job opportunities in a booming regional economy.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked
- Number of Students: About 9,000
- Degrees Offered: Associate degrees and certifications
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Average SAT Score: Not Required
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Art and photography clubs
- SCC Artichokes Athletics
- Culinary arts competitions
- Film and media production clubs
- Student government and leadership programs
Famous Alumni
- David Spade – Comedian and actor
- Paul Konerko – MLB player
- Chuck Liddell – UFC fighter
- Patty Sheehan – LPGA golfer
- Wayne Brady – Actor and comedian
Top Employers
- Scottsdale Unified School District
- Marriott International
- State of Arizona
- Arizona Public Service (APS)
- Mayo Clinic Arizona