1. Arizona State University
Overview
Arizona State University (ASU), established in 1885, is a public research university in Tempe, Arizona. Known for its innovation and research initiatives, ASU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple campuses and online platforms. The university is recognized for its emphasis on interdisciplinary research, sustainability, and community engagement.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #117 in National Universities.
Number of Students
Over 74,000 students (including online students).
Degrees Offered
More than 350 undergraduate majors and over 400 graduate degrees and certificates.
Acceptance Rate
86%
Average SAT Score
1120-1360
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Student Government
- Sustainability Initiatives
- Greek Life
- Sports Clubs
- Performing Arts Groups
Famous Alumni
- Jimmy Kimmel – TV Host and Comedian
- Barry Bonds – MLB Player
- Kate Spade – Fashion Designer
- Pat Tillman – NFL Player and Army Ranger
- David Spade – Actor and Comedian
Top Hiring Companies
- Intel Corporation
- Amazon
- Honeywell
- Arizona State Government
- Mayo Clinic
2. University of Arizona
Overview
The University of Arizona (UA), founded in 1885, is a public research university in Tucson, Arizona. It is known for its strong programs in science, engineering, and business. UA is also home to a renowned medical school and a top-tier research facility, contributing significantly to advancements in various fields.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #121 in National Universities.
Number of Students
Approximately 45,000 students.
Degrees Offered
Over 300 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Acceptance Rate
85%
Average SAT Score
1120-1370
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Student Government
- Research Programs
- Greek Life
- Cultural Organizations
- Sports and Recreation Clubs
Famous Alumni
- Kourtney Kardashian – TV Personality
- Steve Kerr – NBA Coach and Player
- Geraldo Rivera – Journalist and TV Host
- Kristen Wiig – Actress and Comedian
- Rob Gronkowski – NFL Player
Top Hiring Companies
- Raytheon Technologies
- Banner Health
- Amazon
- IBM
- University of Arizona Health Network
3. Northern Arizona University
Overview
Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public university established in 1899 in Flagstaff, Arizona. NAU is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education, particularly in fields like forestry, education, and health sciences. The university offers a vibrant campus life and opportunities for outdoor activities in the scenic surroundings of Flagstaff.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #284 in National Universities.
Number of Students
Approximately 30,000 students.
Degrees Offered
Over 150 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Acceptance Rate
81%
Average SAT Score
1020-1240
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Outdoor Adventure Clubs
- Student Government
- Greek Life
- Cultural Organizations
- Athletics and Recreation
Famous Alumni
- Diana Gabaldon – Author
- Raul Hector Castro – Former Governor of Arizona
- Travis Brown – NFL Player
- Todd Bosley – Actor
- Pete C. Garcia – Educator and Community Leader
Top Hiring Companies
- Arizona Department of Education
- W. L. Gore & Associates
- Flagstaff Medical Center
- Northern Arizona Healthcare
- Coconino County Government
4. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott
Overview
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona, is a private university specializing in aviation and aerospace. Established in 1925, the Prescott campus offers a variety of programs in aviation, aerospace engineering, and related fields. The university is known for its strong emphasis on practical training and industry connections.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #10 in Regional Universities West.
Number of Students
Approximately 3,000 students.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aviation, aerospace engineering, global security, and other related fields.
Acceptance Rate
68%
Average SAT Score
1150-1350
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Flight Teams
- Robotics Clubs
- Student Government
- Greek Life
- Sports and Recreation Clubs
Famous Alumni
- Nicole Malachowski – First Female Thunderbird Pilot
- Bob Crippen – NASA Astronaut
- Daniel Henry – CEO of NetJets
- Gregory Feith – Aviation Safety Analyst
- Michael Durant – Black Hawk Down Pilot
Top Hiring Companies
- Boeing
- Lockheed Martin
- NASA
- United Airlines
- Raytheon Technologies
5. Arizona Christian University
Overview
Arizona Christian University (ACU) is a private, non-profit Christian university located in Glendale, Arizona. Founded in 1960, ACU offers a faith-based education with a focus on liberal arts and sciences. The university emphasizes character development, leadership, and community service.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #40 in Regional Colleges West.
Number of Students
Approximately 1,000 students.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor’s degrees in various fields including business, education, and biblical studies.
Acceptance Rate
68%
Average SAT Score
940-1140
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Chapel Services
- Mission Trips
- Student Government
- Athletics
- Music and Worship Bands
Famous Alumni
- Paul Gosar – U.S. Congressman
- Bill Redmond – Former U.S. Congressman
- Nick Lowery – NFL Player
- Daniel Hughes – Missionary
- Luke Spencer – Pastor
Top Hiring Companies
- Arizona Christian Ministries
- Banner Health
- Arizona Department of Education
- Local Churches
- Nonprofit Organizations
6. Grand Canyon University
Overview
Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a private, for-profit Christian university located in Phoenix, Arizona. Founded in 1949, GCU offers a wide range of programs, particularly in business, education, and healthcare. The university is known for its vibrant campus life, online programs, and commitment to community service.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #298-#389 in National Universities.
Number of Students
Over 70,000 students (including online students).
Degrees Offered
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in various fields.
Acceptance Rate
76%
Average SAT Score
970-1210
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Student Government
- Greek Life
- Intramural Sports
- Worship Services
- Community Service Projects
Famous Alumni
- Jerry Colangelo – Sports Executive
- Efrain Escobedo – Community Leader
- Rich Franklin – UFC Fighter
- Jalen Brunson – NBA Player
- Randy Johnson – MLB Player
Top Hiring Companies
- Banner Health
- HonorHealth
- Amazon
- Wells Fargo
- Grand Canyon University
7. Prescott College
Overview
Prescott College is a private liberal arts college in Prescott, Arizona, established in 1966. The college emphasizes experiential education and environmental studies, offering personalized and self-directed learning opportunities. Prescott College is known for its progressive approach to education and strong focus on sustainability.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #75 in Regional Universities West.
Number of Students
Approximately 800 students.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in various fields including environmental studies, education, and psychology.
Acceptance Rate
97%
Average SAT Score
Not applicable
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Outdoor Adventure Programs
- Environmental Clubs
- Student Government
- Community Service Projects
- Arts and Culture Events
Famous Alumni
- Winona LaDuke – Environmental Activist
- John Zerzan – Philosopher and Anarchist
- Jeff Ament – Musician (Pearl Jam)
- Peter McLaren – Education Theorist
- Wendy Koons – Environmental Educator
Top Hiring Companies
- National Park Service
- U.S. Forest Service
- Local Environmental NGOs
- Prescott Unified School District
- Yavapai County Government
8. American Indian College
Overview
American Indian College (AIC) is a private, Christian college in Phoenix, Arizona. Established in 1957, AIC is dedicated to providing higher education to Native American students. The college offers a faith-based education with programs designed to support the cultural and spiritual needs of its students.
U.S. News Ranking
Not ranked by U.S. News.
Number of Students
Approximately 150 students.
Degrees Offered
Associate and bachelor’s degrees in ministry, business, and education.
Acceptance Rate
Open admission policy
Average SAT Score
Not applicable
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Chapel Services
- Cultural Celebrations
- Student Government
- Community Service Projects
- Worship Bands
Famous Alumni
- Amos Yazzie – Pastor and Educator
- Naomi Begay – Community Leader
- William Tsosie – Tribal Leader
- Mary Tom – Christian Counselor
- James Redbird – Missionary
Top Hiring Companies
- Tribal Governments
- Christian Ministries
- Local Churches
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Educational Institutions
9. Benedictine University at Mesa
Overview
Benedictine University at Mesa is a branch campus of Benedictine University, a private Catholic institution based in Illinois. Established in 2012, the Mesa campus offers a liberal arts education with a strong focus on service, leadership, and community engagement. The campus is located in downtown Mesa, providing students with access to numerous cultural and recreational activities.
U.S. News Ranking
Ranked #82 in Regional Universities Midwest (for main campus in Illinois).
Number of Students
Approximately 500 students.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor’s degrees in business, education, health sciences, and more.
Acceptance Rate
62%
Average SAT Score
920-1160
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Student Government
- Service Learning Projects
- Athletics
- Campus Ministry
- Cultural Clubs
Famous Alumni
- John Cullerton – Illinois State Senator
- Alvernia Muller – Educator
- Eric Freire – Entrepreneur
- Maria Rodriguez – Public Health Advocate
- David A. Hoffman – Judge
Top Hiring Companies
- Dignity Health
- Arizona Department of Education
- Mesa Public Schools
- Banner Health
- Local Nonprofit Organizations
10. Midwestern University, Glendale
Overview
Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona, is a private, non-profit graduate and professional school offering degrees in the health sciences. Established in 1995, the Glendale campus is known for its programs in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, and health sciences. The university emphasizes interprofessional education and hands-on clinical training.
U.S. News Ranking
Not ranked by U.S. News.
Number of Students
Approximately 3,800 students.
Degrees Offered
Graduate and professional degrees in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, and health sciences.
Acceptance Rate
Varies by program
Average SAT Score
Not applicable (graduate programs only)
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Student Government
- Professional Organizations
- Community Health Outreach
- Research Opportunities
- Fitness and Wellness Programs
Famous Alumni
- Dr. Barbara Ross-Lee – Osteopathic Physician and Educator
- Dr. Bruce Y. Lee – Health Economist
- Dr. Christina Madison – Pharmacy Advocate
- Dr. David J. Lefer – Cardiologist
- Dr. Samantha Brown – Optometrist
Top Hiring Companies
- Banner Health
- Mayo Clinic
- Dignity Health
- OptumRx
- Midwestern University Clinics