Best
Private Colleges in Tempe in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Tempe, Arizona, combines management, finance, marketing, and organizational skills. Typical courses include accounting, economics, business law, statistics, human resources, marketing, operations, and strategic management. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or management trainee. Tempe's best-known option is Arizona State University, whose W. P. Carey School of Business offers undergraduate business administration study. Bryan University, also located in Tempe, offers business-focused degree programs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Tempe, Arizona, builds understanding of behavior, cognition, and mental health through courses such as introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Arizona State University offers psychology degrees at its Tempe campus, while Rio Salado College provides foundational psychology coursework. Graduates can pursue roles as behavioral health technicians, case managers, human resources assistants, social services workers, or research assistants. Clinical and counseling careers require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Tempe, Arizona, combines programming, theory, and practical problem-solving in a vibrant university city. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or web developers. Arizona State University and the University of Advancing Technology are popular Tempe institutions offering computer science-related study, with opportunities to collaborate on projects, internships, and technology-focused research.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Tempe, Arizona, can prepare students to support people through challenges. Arizona State University is a local option, and University of Phoenix offers counseling-related programs for students. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health counselor, case manager, substance-use counselor, school counselor, or marriage and family therapist; independent clinical practice requires a graduate degree, supervised hours, and state licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Tempe, Arizona, can prepare you for patient care in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Tempe-based Arizona State University offers nursing pathways, including RN-to-BSN study, though campus availability varies. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, ethics, and supervised clinical practice. Graduates may work as registered nurses, case managers, community health nurses, or clinical educators, depending on degree level, licensure, and experience. Check current program details before applying in Tempe.

Best Colleges in Tempe, AZ Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 15,047.0, compared with 22,727.9 at schools in the top 10% - a higher median cost among the top-ranked schools.
• An average of 92.5% of students receive financial aid, rising to 99.0% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 99.0%. Schools receive an average of 202.5 applicants, compared with 328.5 applicants at schools in the top 10%. The median number of male applicants is 132.5, versus 59.0 female applicants.
• The average number of enrolled students is 1,215.33. Average enrollment figures are 57.5 men and 25.5 women.
• The average graduation rate is 51.25%, compared with 74.6% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 44.5% for men and 43.0% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, four offer bachelor's degrees, and three offer master's degrees; none offer doctor's degrees.
• Two schools are coeducational; there are no schools for men and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare its total cost and financial aid availability, and consider how its acceptance rate, applicant and enrollment figures, graduation outcomes, degree offerings, and school type fit your priorities. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, but also higher average financial aid and graduation rates.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Tempe, Arizona, is $15,522.75. Treat this as a planning benchmark rather than a guaranteed full-degree price: your actual bill often depends on the college, program, residency status, and time to completion.

For local context, Arizona State University's Tempe campus is a major option, and University of Advancing Technology is another Tempe-based choice. Compare each program's published cost carefully before applying, since tuition varies by degree and enrollment.

• Average tuition and fees: $18,427.50.
• Average room and board: $9,344.
• Average total studying cost: $15,522.75.

These averages do not add up as a single budget: tuition and fees alone exceed the stated total studying cost, so treat the categories as separately reported estimates, not amounts to combine. Ask financial-aid offices about grants, scholarships, payment plans, and housing choices; exploring those options can make your Tempe degree feel more manageable and help you plan with confidence.

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

At Arizona State University's Tempe campus, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree takes two. Timing depends on major requirements, course availability, transfer credits, and whether you study part time. ASU and community-college pathways, including Rio Salado College, can help you plan a route that fits your schedule.

Students may finish sooner by bringing in AP or prior-learning credits, transferring completed coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program where available. Meet with an academic advisor early to confirm which credits satisfy your degree; careful planning can save semesters and make progress feel encouraging.

Graduation figures offer perspective: the average rate is 51.25%, compared with 74.6% among the top 10% of schools. The reported averages are 55.25% for men and 52.25% for women. These figures show completion takes persistence, while advising and a realistic course plan can help you keep moving forward.

Salary

Graduates of colleges in Tempe, AZ, earn a median alumni salary of $37,471; the median for graduates of top-10% schools is $40,894.80. These figures offer a useful benchmark if you're considering popular local options such as Arizona State University, but they aren't guaranteed starting salaries or specific to one campus.

Your own earning potential can vary with your major, experience, and career path. Comparing programs at ASU and other Tempe colleges by field of study can help you find a degree that fits your goals and gives you confidence about the opportunities ahead.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Tempe?

"Prettiest" is subjective, but many students find Arizona State University's Tempe campus especially appealing. Its palm-lined paths, desert landscaping, mountain views, and historic Old Main give it a distinctive Arizona feel. If you can, take a walk around campus in the late afternoon - the warm light can make exploring feel like a highlight of your visit.

What is the most selective college in Tempe?

There isn't a definitive ranking for the most selective college in Tempe. At ASU, admission standards vary by program, while Barrett, The Honors College, has a separate application and additional admission review. If you're looking for a more competitive academic experience, check the current Barrett requirements and the requirements for your intended major.

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

University of Advancing Technology (UAT) is a technology-focused university in Tempe, AZ, offering local students a nearby option for degree study. It enrolls 933 students, with a reported graduation rate of 35% and acceptance rate of 98%. The listed total study cost is $17,900, and median alumni salary is $38,624. For a Tempe-based applicant, UAT's technology emphasis may be appealing; investigate the available majors, campus experience, and how the stated cost fits your budget and career goals before choosing this school as well.

Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe is a nursing-focused institution for students considering a healthcare degree in Tempe, AZ. Its reported graduation rate is 89%, and its acceptance rate is 100%; enrollment figures are unavailable. The listed total cost of study is $24,797, with median alumni salary of $41,868. For local applicants, these figures offer a starting point for comparing affordability and outcomes. Confirm program requirements, clinical arrangements, financial aid, and licensing preparation before deciding whether this nursing pathway suits you.

Sessions College for Professional Design is a design-focused college that may suit students seeking creative training while living in Tempe, AZ. It reports 194 enrolled students and a 40% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. The listed total cost of study is $7,200, and median alumni salary is $34,704. Tempe residents should check whether their preferred program format and support services match their needs, then compare the stated cost with other local and online options and expected career outcomes carefully.

Bryan University-Arizona is a career-oriented university option for students in Tempe, AZ, looking for practical, employment-focused study. It reports 2,519 enrolled students and a 41% graduation rate; acceptance-rate information is not available. The listed total study cost is $12,194, and median alumni salary is $36,318. For prospective local students, these figures provide useful comparison points, but should not replace checking the exact program, class format, academic support, financial aid, and career services available for the credential you plan to pursue there.

Sonoran University of Health Sciences is a health-sciences institution that may interest Tempe, AZ, residents pursuing education in healthcare. The supplied data do not report enrollment, graduation or acceptance rates, total study cost, or median alumni salary, so applicants will need to request figures from the university. As you compare options, review its degree offerings, campus location, clinical or learning, accreditation, and financial-aid details. These checks can help you assess whether its health-focused programs match your goals and needs before committing.