Arizona State University (ASU) is one of the largest public universities in the United States, with over 70,000 students across multiple campuses. If you’re considering applying to ASU, you probably want to know – is it actually a good school?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Yes, ASU is considered a good school overall, ranking in the top 150 universities nationally with strong programs in business, engineering, journalism, and more.
However, its huge size and low admissions selectivity means the student experience can vary.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at ASU’s academics, student life, value, rankings, and more to help you determine if it’s a good fit for you.
Academics at ASU
When it comes to academics, Arizona State University (ASU) offers a wide variety of majors and programs to suit the diverse interests of its students. Whether you’re interested in business, engineering, arts, or sciences, ASU has a program for you.
With over 350 undergraduate majors and more than 450 graduate degree programs, students have a plethora of options to choose from. This extensive range of academic offerings ensures that students can pursue their passions and find a program that aligns with their career goals.
Variety of Majors and Programs
ASU’s commitment to providing a diverse range of majors and programs is evident through their extensive catalog of offerings. From traditional disciplines such as biology and psychology to innovative programs like sustainability, ASU caters to a wide range of academic interests.
This variety allows students to explore different fields and discover new passions. Additionally, ASU offers interdisciplinary programs that combine multiple disciplines, providing students with a unique and well-rounded educational experience.
Faculty
ASU boasts a faculty of accomplished professors who are experts in their respective fields. The faculty members at ASU are dedicated to providing high-quality education and mentorship to their students.
They bring real-world experience and cutting-edge research to the classroom, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. The faculty’s commitment to excellence in teaching and research helps students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of their chosen field.
Class Sizes
One of the advantages of attending ASU is the relatively small class sizes, especially for upper-level courses. Unlike larger universities where students may feel like just another number, ASU offers smaller class sizes that foster a more personalized learning environment.
This allows students to engage in meaningful discussions, receive individual attention from professors, and build relationships with their peers. Smaller class sizes also encourage active participation and collaboration, enhancing the overall learning experience.
Online Programs
In addition to its on-campus offerings, ASU also has a strong presence in the online education space. ASU Online provides flexible and convenient options for students who prefer or require remote learning.
With over 200 fully online programs, ASU offers the same high-quality education to online students as it does to its on-campus counterparts. The online programs are taught by the same renowned faculty and provide interactive and engaging learning experiences.
ASU’s commitment to online education has earned it recognition as a leader in online learning.
Student Life at ASU
Campus Environment
The campus environment at Arizona State University (ASU) is known for its vibrant and energetic atmosphere. With multiple campuses spread across Arizona, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, modern classrooms, and beautiful outdoor spaces.
Whether you prefer studying in a serene library or socializing in a buzzing student center, ASU offers a diverse range of environments to suit every student’s needs.
Diversity
ASU prides itself on its diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 150 countries. This diversity enriches the campus experience, exposing students to different cultures, perspectives, and ideas.
Interacting with peers from various backgrounds not only enhances learning inside the classroom but also fosters a sense of inclusivity and global awareness.
Housing
ASU provides a variety of housing options for students, including residence halls, apartments, and living-learning communities. On-campus housing offers convenience and a strong sense of community, with amenities such as dining halls, study lounges, and recreational facilities.
Off-campus housing options are also available, allowing students to explore the vibrant surrounding neighborhoods.
Greek Life
Greek life at ASU offers students the opportunity to join fraternities and sororities that align with their interests and values. These organizations provide a supportive network, leadership opportunities, and a chance to engage in philanthropic activities.
Participating in Greek life can enhance social connections, personal growth, and contribute to a well-rounded college experience.
Athletics
ASU’s athletic program is highly regarded, with a range of competitive sports teams and state-of-the-art facilities. Students can show their school spirit by attending games and cheering on the Sun Devils.
The university’s commitment to athletics fosters a sense of pride and camaraderie among students, creating a vibrant and exciting atmosphere on game days.
Value and Affordability
When considering whether Arizona State University (ASU) is a good school, one important aspect to examine is its value and affordability. In today’s increasingly expensive higher education landscape, it’s crucial for students and their families to weigh the cost of tuition against the quality of education and the potential return on investment.
Tuition and Fees
ASU is known for providing a quality education at a reasonable cost. The university offers competitive tuition rates, especially for in-state students. According to the ASU website, the average undergraduate tuition and fees for in-state students for the 2021-2022 academic year is approximately $11,338 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $29,428 per year.
Compared to many other universities, this makes ASU an affordable option for both in-state and out-of-state students.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
ASU understands the financial burden that higher education can impose on students and their families. That’s why the university offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options to help make education more accessible and affordable.
Students can explore various scholarships based on merit, financial need, or specific disciplines. Additionally, ASU provides robust financial aid programs, including grants, work-study opportunities, and loans, to assist students in funding their education.
By offering these resources, ASU seeks to make a quality education attainable for all students.
Return on Investment
When evaluating the value of a university education, it’s essential to consider the potential return on investment. ASU has a strong track record of producing graduates who go on to succeed in their chosen careers.
According to the ASU website, the university ranks highly for graduate employability, with 88% of graduates finding employment or pursuing further education within 90 days of graduation. Additionally, ASU alumni have made significant contributions to their fields, further highlighting the university’s commitment to producing successful graduates.
Furthermore, ASU’s location in the thriving city of Phoenix provides ample opportunities for internships, networking, and job placements. With a strong alumni network and connections to various industries, ASU students have access to a wide range of career opportunities that can enhance their future earning potential.
Admissions Information
Acceptance Rate
When considering whether Arizona State University (ASU) is a good school, one important factor to consider is its acceptance rate. ASU is known for its accessibility and commitment to providing education to a wide range of students.
With an acceptance rate of around 85%, ASU has a relatively high acceptance rate compared to other competitive universities. This means that ASU is more inclusive and gives more students an opportunity to pursue higher education.
Admissions Requirements
To gain admission to ASU, prospective students must meet certain requirements. ASU considers a variety of factors in the admissions process, including high school GPA, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), and class rank.
The university also takes into account extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community involvement. Meeting these requirements demonstrates a student’s readiness for college-level coursework and involvement in campus life.
Application Process
The application process for ASU is straightforward and user-friendly. Prospective students can apply online through the ASU admissions website. The application typically requires basic personal information, academic history, and an essay or personal statement.
ASU also offers an option to apply through the Common Application, which can streamline the application process for students applying to multiple universities. Additionally, ASU has a rolling admissions policy, meaning that applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, allowing for flexibility in submitting applications.
For more detailed information about ASU’s admissions process, students can visit the official ASU admissions website at https://admission.asu.edu.
Rankings and Reputation
National and World Rankings
When considering whether Arizona State University (ASU) is a good school, it is important to look at its rankings and reputation. ASU consistently ranks highly among universities both nationally and internationally.
In fact, according to the U.S. News & World Report, ASU is ranked as one of the top 50 public universities in the United States. This prestigious recognition speaks to the commitment of ASU in providing a high-quality education to its students.
Program-Specific Rankings
ASU is not just known for its overall rankings, but also for the excellence of its individual programs. The university offers a wide range of programs across various fields, and many of these programs have received high rankings.
For example, ASU’s engineering program is consistently ranked among the top 20 in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report. Similarly, its business and law programs have also received recognition for their excellence.
These program-specific rankings demonstrate the strength and quality of education offered at ASU.
Reputation among Employers
One of the key factors that determine the quality of a university is the reputation it has among employers. ASU has built a strong reputation among employers for producing well-prepared and highly skilled graduates.
Employers recognize the value of an ASU education and actively seek out ASU graduates for employment. In fact, ASU has partnerships with over 1,000 companies, providing students with internship and job opportunities that can give them a competitive edge in the job market.
This reputation among employers is a testament to the high standards and practical education provided by ASU.
Conclusion
In summary, Arizona State University is considered a good school for many students due to its variety of highly ranked programs, vibrant campus life, reasonable cost, and academic excellence. However, it may not be the best fit for every student due to its massive size and low admissions selectivity.
By weighing ASU’s strengths and weaknesses against your own academic interests, financial needs, and college preferences, you can determine if it is a good choice for your higher education.
