Best
Colleges in Tempe in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Tempe, Arizona, offers preparation for careers in management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, business law, organizational behavior, statistics, operations, and strategic management. Arizona State University's W. P. Carey School of Business offers programs at its Tempe campus, while Rio Salado College, based in Tempe, provides business studies with flexible options. Graduates commonly pursue roles as marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial analysts, sales managers, or business consultants.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Tempe, Arizona, combines coursework on human behavior, research methods, statistics, cognition, development, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Arizona State University is a prominent choice with undergraduate and graduate programs; University of Phoenix, headquartered in Tempe, also offers psychology study options. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human-resources specialist, research assistant, or social-service worker, while clinical psychologist careers typically require advanced degrees and licensure beyond a bachelor's.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Tempe, AZ, combines rigorous coursework with access to a technology hub. Courses typically include programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, networks, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students develop problem-solving skills through projects and internships. Arizona State University and University of Advancing Technology are popular Tempe-based options. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, or database administrators across a broad range of local and national industries.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Tempe, Arizona, develops skills for supporting people through emotional, behavioral, educational, and family challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical experience. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, substance-use counselor, academic advisor, or case manager, with independent practice generally requiring graduate education and state licensure. Arizona State University is Tempe's leading university for counseling-related study, including counseling psychology.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Tempe, Arizona, combines learning with clinical practice in healthcare settings. Courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and community or pediatric nursing. Programs lead to associate or bachelor's degrees and prepare graduates for registered nurse licensure. Popular options include Arizona College of Nursing in Tempe and Arizona State University, whose nursing programs are based in nearby Phoenix. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care.

Best Colleges in Tempe, AZ Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $15,047.0 across the ranked colleges, compared with $28,595.5 at schools in the top 10%, making cost an important factor to weigh when comparing institutions.
• Financial aid is received by an average of 93.5% of students, rising to 96.0% at top-10% schools. Prospective students may want to compare aid availability alongside the stated cost.
• The average acceptance rate is 96.0%. Colleges receive an average of 23,777.67 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 56,814.4 applicants.
• The median number of male applicants is 257.0, compared with a median of 81.0 female applicants.
• The average number of enrolled students is 20,199.4. Average enrollment is 2,315.67 men and 2,438.33 women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.0%, compared with 78.5% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 44.5% for men and 43.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, six offer bachelor's degrees, four offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree.
• Four schools are coeducational; there are no schools for men and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should compare total cost and financial aid, consider admissions and applicant figures, and review graduation rates. They should also check that the available degree levels and school setting fit their goals.

How much does studying at a college in Tempe, AZ cost?

Based on the available figures, the average total cost of studying in Tempe, Arizona, is $17,235.50. This gives you a practical starting point as you compare programs at Arizona State University's Tempe campus and other local colleges; your actual degree cost depends on your program, enrollment length, and living arrangements. The reported average cost categories are:

• Tuition and fees average $14,840.50.
• Room and board average $12,659.33.
• Books and supplies average $1,152.00.

For a Tempe student, treat $17,235.50 as an average estimate, not a guaranteed bill or a universal degree price. Your final cost depends on your program, time to completion, financial aid, and whether you live on campus, share housing, or commute. The category figures exceed the reported total when added, so don't combine them as a single bill. Check estimates for your ASU program and housing choice. Comparing aid offers can make pursuing your degree feel manageable and exciting.

How long does it take to finish college in Tempe, AZ?

At Arizona State University (ASU) in Tempe, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study; an associate degree generally takes two. Your timeline may stretch if you study part-time, change majors, or need prerequisites, but early planning can make the path manageable.

Tempe students may often finish sooner by transferring eligible credits, taking summer classes, earning credit through approved exams, or choosing accelerated formats if course availability and your degree requirements permit. At ASU or another local college, ask an adviser to map requirements and verify transfer credits before enrolling, avoiding repeated coursework. Online or flexible schedules can help you balance progress with work or family.

The figures show a 47.0% average graduation rate; the top 10% of schools average 78.5%. Reported averages are 49.5% for men and 47.83% for women. Graduation rates indicate completion, not a guaranteed timeline, and underscore the value of support and persistence.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Tempe, AZ, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $40,246. At schools in the top 10% for graduate salaries, the median is about $51,880. These figures offer a useful benchmark as you explore options such as Arizona State University, though your earnings will depend on your degree, experience, and career path.

• Median alumni salary: $40,246
• Median alumni salary at top 10% of schools: $51,880

People also ask

How many colleges are in Tempe?

There isn't one universally agreed count, because listings may include branch locations, career schools, and colleges that primarily teach online. Tempe is home to several postsecondary institutions; examples include Arizona State University's Tempe campus, the University of Advancing Technology, and Rio Salado College's Tempe headquarters. Check each school's location and programs when comparing options.

What is the main college in Tempe?

Arizona State University's Tempe campus is the city's main and best-known university campus. It's a large, lively place with a wide range of academic programs, student organizations, athletics, and campus events. Its central location also puts students close to downtown Tempe, making it easy to connect campus life with the surrounding city.

Where do college students go in Tempe?

Students often spend time around Mill Avenue, where restaurants, cafés, shops, and entertainment make it a natural gathering spot. Tempe Town Lake and nearby parks offer room to walk, bike, or unwind outdoors. Around ASU, students also meet at campus libraries, student spaces, and events - so there are welcoming options for both busy days and relaxed evenings.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges Ranking in Tempe, AZ Ranking in 2026-2027

Arizona State University's Campus Immersion option offers a large university experience in Tempe, Arizona, with 78,510 enrolled students. Its 68% graduation rate and 90% acceptance rate provide useful context as you compare admission and outcomes. Estimated total study cost is $32,394, while median alumni salary is $51,524. For local students seeking a broad campus setting, its scale can mean many academic and social options; consider your intended major, commute, and personal support needs when assessing fit and long-term value in Tempe.

University of Advancing Technology is a small Tempe-based institution with a technology-centered identity. It reports 933 enrolled students, a 35% graduation rate, and a 98% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $17,900, and median alumni salary is $38,624. For a prospective student already in Tempe, studying nearby could simplify routines. Compare programs and career support carefully, and ask how the curriculum connects with your goals before deciding whether this smaller setting and reported outcomes match your plans and budget.

Rio Salado College is a community college based in Tempe, making it a locally relevant option for students seeking flexible ways to study. It reports 18,841 enrolled students, a 9% graduation rate, and no available acceptance rate. Total study cost is $8,928, while median alumni salary is $52,236. Its comparatively low listed cost may interest budget-conscious learners. Tempe residents should check current course formats, transfer pathways, and support services to determine how the college's offerings align with their degree plans.

Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe provides a nursing-focused study option in Tempe, Arizona, for students interested in pursuing healthcare education. Its reported graduation rate is 89%, acceptance rate is 100%, and total study cost is $24,797. Enrollment data is unavailable; median alumni salary is listed as $41,868. For local students, its Tempe location can make evaluating campus access more straightforward. Ask about program prerequisites, clinical placements, licensing preparation, and financial aid, since those details help clarify the practical commitment of nursing study.

Sessions College for Professional Design is a design-focused institution offering an option for creative learners considering study from Tempe, Arizona. It reports 194 enrolled students, a 40% graduation rate, and no available acceptance rate. The total study cost is $7,200, with median alumni salary of $34,704. Its small reported enrollment and professional design emphasis may suit students seeking a specialized direction. Tempe-based applicants should verify delivery format, portfolio expectations, course schedules, and career services before choosing it for their goals.