Best
Colleges in Arizona in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Arizona offers practical preparation for managing organizations across industries. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, operations, and entrepreneurship. Students may gain experience through internships with local companies and growing technology firms. Popular options include Arizona State University, University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, and Grand Canyon University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, sales representative, human resources specialist, or operations manager in Arizona.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Arizona introduces students to human behavior, mental health, and research. Typical coursework includes developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, plus statistics, research methods, and counseling foundations. Popular options include Arizona State University, University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, and Grand Canyon University. Graduates may pursue roles as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources specialists, research assistants, or community support workers. Advanced study can prepare students for licensure as counselors or psychologists.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Arizona combines programming, mathematics and hands-on problem solving. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and computer systems. Students can explore research and internships with technology companies across the state. Popular options include Arizona State University, University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, systems administrators or web developers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Arizona combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, multicultural practice, assessment, group counseling, and research methods. Programs may prepare students for licensure through clinical experience, though requirements vary by degree and state rules. Arizona schools include Arizona State University, University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, and Grand Canyon University. Graduates pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, or marriage and family therapists, depending on credentials and licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Arizona offers pathways from associate and bachelor's degrees to advanced practice. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and supervised clinical rotations. Programs build skills in patient care, communication, and evidence-based practice. Popular options include Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, and Grand Canyon University. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, community health, or home-care settings statewide.

Best Colleges in Arizona Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $9,696.0, compared with $32,545.2 at schools in the top 10%, making cost an important factor to compare.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall and 87.29% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is also 87.29%.
• Schools receive an average of 15,460.4 applicants, compared with 55,484.6 at top-10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 784.0, while the median number of female applicants is 410.0.
• Average test scores are 1,132.5 on the SAT and 22.5 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 13,677.76, including averages of 1,321.92 enrolled men and 1,657.07 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 38.7%, compared with 68.0% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 37.0% for men and 37.0% for women.
• Among the institutions counted, 30 offer associate's degrees, 41 offer bachelor's degrees, 26 offer master's degrees, and 10 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 37 coeducational schools. When comparing school settings, the counts for schools for men and schools for women are both 0.
• When choosing a college, potential students should weigh total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, test scores, enrollment, available degree levels, and graduation rates. The differences between overall figures and top-10% figures - particularly in cost and graduation rates - make it useful to compare individual schools against students' academic goals and financial needs.

How much does studying at a college in Arizona cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Arizona is $15,424, a useful starting point for budgeting toward a degree. Treat the figures below as separate estimates: the listed tuition, housing, and books averages exceed the reported total, so they should not be added as one reconciled bill.

• Tuition and fees: $13,004.39
• Room and board: $11,821.52
• Books and supplies: $1,126.58

At Arizona State University in Tempe or Phoenix, the University of Arizona in Tucson, and Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, compare each campus's cost breakdown and financial-aid options. Living with family, buying used textbooks, and applying for scholarships may ease expenses. Ask aid offices about grants and work-study, and compare net prices - not just tuition. Also budget separately for transportation and personal spending. Early planning can make an Arizona degree feel more attainable and help you choose a campus and program that fit your goals, budget, and financial circumstances.

How long does it take to finish college in Arizona?

At Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, or Northern Arizona University, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study; an associate degree at a community college commonly takes two. Your actual timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, work, and whether you attend full-time. Planning each semester with an adviser can keep your goal realistic and encouraging.

Arizona's average graduation rate is 38.7%, meaning fewer than four in ten students graduate within the period measured by that rate. The average is 68.0% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 35.89% for men and 40.47% for women, showing outcomes vary across students and institutions.

You can potentially finish faster through options such as:

• Earn credits through AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses before college.
• Transfer eligible community-college credits, after confirming they satisfy your degree plan.
• Take summer courses or explore approved accelerated or competency-based programs with academic advisers.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Arizona have a median alumni salary of about $48,032. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $64,567 - a promising benchmark as you plan your next step after college.

Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your degree, career, and experience. Whether you're considering Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, or Northern Arizona University, comparing programs and career paths can help you find a route that fits your goals and earning ambitions.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Arizona?

By total enrollment, including students studying online, the largest are Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, and the University of Arizona. Recent reported enrollment figures put ASU first, with roughly 145,000 students, followed by GCU with more than 100,000 and the University of Arizona with roughly 56,000. Rankings can differ if online students are excluded.

How many colleges are there in Arizona?

Arizona has about 90 colleges and universities, depending on how the count is defined. Totals may include public and private schools, two-year and four-year institutions, and specialized colleges; they can also change as institutions open, close, or merge. For students, that variety means options ranging from community-college pathways to large research universities.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges Ranking in Arizona Ranking in 2026-2027

For Arizona students seeking a large public research university, the University of Arizona in Tucson enrolls 54,384 students and reports a 68% graduation rate and 86% acceptance rate. Its total cost of studying is listed at $38,165, while median alumni salary is $48,032. The university is known for research, broad academic offerings, and a lively campus in a major southern Arizona city. Compare housing, transportation, and program-specific costs before deciding whether Tucson and this price fit your plans and goals.

Northern Arizona University, based in Flagstaff, offers Arizona residents a public-university option in a mountain setting. It enrolls 27,184 students, with a 61% graduation rate and 90% acceptance rate. Listed total study cost is $18,795, and median alumni salary is $48,510. NAU is especially associated with its Flagstaff location and programs spanning many fields. For students weighing affordability against career outcomes, compare these figures with your intended major, scholarships, housing, and the practical differences of living in northern Arizona there.

Arizona State University Campus Immersion gives Arizona students access to a large, multi-campus public university experience, with its main campus in Tempe and additional campus locations. It enrolls 78,510 students, reports a 68% graduation rate and 90% acceptance rate, and lists total study cost at $32,394. Median alumni salary is $51,524. ASU is known for broad programs and innovation. Consider campus choice, commuting, and your major when evaluating costs and fit as an Arizona resident planning your college experience carefully.

Prescott College is a small private liberal arts institution in central Arizona, appealing to students who prefer a close-knit setting and experiential learning. Its enrollment is 880, with a 56% graduation rate and 95% acceptance rate. Total cost of studying is listed as $33,960, and median alumni salary is $34,172. Its smaller scale contrasts with Arizona's large public campuses. If you are considering Prescott, investigate academic offerings, financial aid, and how the cost aligns with your budget and career goals.

Grand Canyon University, a private Christian university in Phoenix, gives Arizona students an urban campus option with a faith-based identity. It enrolls 113,257 students and lists a 43% graduation rate, 79% acceptance rate, and total study cost of $16,473. Median alumni salary is $59,964, the highest figure among these five schools. GCU's scale and Phoenix location may suit students seeking many campus services. Review program quality, aid, and graduation outcomes alongside cost when choosing your degree path as a student.