Best
Value Colleges in Tempe in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Tempe, Arizona, combines foundational business knowledge with practical decision-making skills. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and organizational behavior. Students may develop communication, leadership, and analytical abilities through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, or operations manager. Arizona State University and Rio Salado College are Tempe-based options for business administration study, with program formats varying.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Tempe, Arizona, offers coursework in human development, research methods, statistics, cognition, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Arizona State University's Tempe campus offers undergraduate and graduate psychology programs, while Rio Salado College provides foundational psychology coursework and transfer pathways. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis. Typical careers include research assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, and community outreach worker. Some clinical and counseling roles require advanced degrees.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Tempe, Arizona, offers access to strong technology programs and a vibrant innovation community. At Arizona State University and University of Advancing Technology, students typically study programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Coursework combines theory with hands-on projects and teamwork. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, or database administrators. Internships and local technology employers can help students build practical experience.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Tempe can prepare you to support people through life and mental-health challenges. Typical courses include counseling theories, psychology, human development, ethics, assessment, and group counseling. Graduates often pursue roles as behavioral-health technicians, case managers, school counselors, or mental-health counselors after completing required graduate training and licensure. Arizona State University, a well-known Tempe institution, offers psychology and counseling-related study; confirm which programs lead to counseling degrees and provide campus-based instruction.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Tempe, Arizona, can lead to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an associate pathway. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and medical-surgical nursing, alongside clinical practice. Arizona College of Nursing's Tempe campus is a local option; students may consider Arizona State University's nursing programs at the Downtown Phoenix campus. Graduates become registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, or long-term care, and may specialize in pediatrics or emergency care.

Best Colleges in Tempe, AZ Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $15,047, compared with $28,595.50 at schools in the top 10%, so the top-ranked group has a higher median cost.
• An average of 93.5% of students receive financial aid, compared with 96.0% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 96.0%, and schools receive an average of 23,777.67 applicants; the average for schools in the top 10% is substantially higher, at 56,814.4 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 257 men and 81 women.
• The average number of enrolled students is 20,199.4, including averages of 2,315.67 enrolled men and 2,438.33 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.0%, while the average at schools in the top 10% is 78.5%. Median graduation rates are 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.
• There are four coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, potential students should weigh total cost alongside financial aid, and compare graduation rates and program offerings with their own goals. The higher average graduation rate and financial-aid percentage among top-10% schools may be relevant, while their higher median cost makes it important to consider affordability as well.

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

Based on available figures, the average total cost of studying in Tempe, Arizona, is $17,235.50 per year. For a local student considering Arizona State University (ASU), this is a useful starting point for planning, although your actual expenses depend on your program, housing choice, and financial aid.

Reported average expenses include:

• Tuition and fees: $14,840.50
• Room and board: $12,659.33
• Books and supplies: $1,152

These figures offer a helpful snapshot, but they should not automatically be added together: the reported total and individual category averages may use different calculations. For a full degree budget, multiply a yearly estimate by your expected time to graduation, then adjust for tuition changes, scholarships, commuting, and personal costs. If you live near ASU's Tempe campus, compare residence-hall and off-campus options early, since housing can meaningfully shape your budget. Ask each school about aid and program-specific fees before enrolling. With a clear plan, you can feel more confident about pursuing your degree in Tempe.

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

In Tempe, AZ, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree usually takes two, while many master's programs require one to two years after a bachelor's. At Arizona State University's Tempe campus, your timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and credits completed each term. The reported average graduation rate is 47.0%, meaning fewer than half of students graduate within the period measured; among the top 10% of schools, the average is 78.5%. Rates are 49.5% for men and 47.83% for women, showing why planning and support matter.

Finish sooner by bringing in AP, dual-enrollment, or transferable community-college credits, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated degree path. ASU students can map required courses with an academic advisor and avoid delays by registering early. Before enrolling, confirm transfer credits apply to your program; each accepted class can bring graduation closer and make your goal feel much more achievable.

Salary

After graduating from college in Tempe, AZ, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $40,246. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is higher, at approximately $51,880.

Arizona State University's Tempe campus is a popular local choice, and your earnings may vary depending on your degree, career field, experience, and employer. These figures offer a useful starting point as you compare programs and plan for the opportunities you hope to pursue after graduation.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Tempe?

Tempe has two universities based in the city: Arizona State University (ASU) and the University of Advancing Technology (UAT). This count refers to institutions located in Tempe, rather than every college or university that may offer classes or services nearby. For students, that means two distinct university communities to explore close to home.

What is the largest university in Tempe?

Arizona State University is the largest university in Tempe. Its substantial student community, broad range of academic programs, and lively campus environment can offer plenty of opportunities to meet people and get involved. ASU's Tempe campus is a major part of the city's student life, with university activity woven into the surrounding community.

How many universities are there in Tempe?

Using the same city-based count, there are two: ASU and UAT. The exact number can vary if you include colleges, satellite locations, or schools in neighboring cities, so it helps to compare institutions by campus address when planning a visit or deciding where to apply. Tempe offers students more than one university setting to consider.

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

Arizona State University's Campus Immersion option is the largest school in this group, enrolling 78,510 students, and offers a traditional university setting for Tempe-area degree seekers. Its 90% acceptance rate may make admission comparatively accessible, while its 68% graduation rate provides one outcome to consider. Reported total study cost is $32,394, and median alumni salary is $51,524. For a student already in Tempe, campus immersion can make local study convenient; weigh the cost against campus experience and career goals.

Rio Salado College is a smaller alternative, with 18,841 enrolled students and a reported total study cost of $8,928, the lowest figure among these five schools. Its 9% graduation rate is important to investigate alongside program completion support and your intended credential. Acceptance rate data is unavailable, and median alumni salary is $52,236. For Tempe residents, compare commute or online-study arrangements for your chosen program, then confirm course availability, transfer pathways, and fees directly with a college advisor before enrolling.

University of Advancing Technology enrolls 933 students, making it the smallest option listed, and its name suggests a technology-focused academic environment. The reported acceptance rate is 98%, graduation rate 35%, and total study cost $17,900; median alumni salary is $38,624. These figures give Tempe-area applicants useful starting points, not guarantees for a particular major. Ask how the curriculum matches your career plans, what learning formats are offered, and how internships or employer connections fit your schedule before choosing this school.

Sessions College for Professional Design is a design-oriented school, with 194 students enrolled, that may appeal to Tempe residents seeking creative studies. Its reported graduation rate is 40%, total study cost is $7,200, and median alumni salary is $34,704; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. Before applying, review the specific design programs, portfolio expectations, course delivery, and equipment needs. For a student in Tempe, confirm whether classes are online or require travel, and compare the full cost with your preferred career path.

Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe reports an 89% graduation rate and a 100% acceptance rate, making it a potentially accessible option for Tempe students focused on nursing. Enrollment data is unavailable. The reported total study cost is $24,797, and median alumni salary is $41,868. Because nursing education involves specific clinical and licensing requirements, verify program accreditation, placement arrangements, completion definitions, and all fees before committing. Its Tempe location may suit local applicants, but compare schedules and outcomes with your personal goals.