Overview of Arizona State University
Arizona State University (ASU), officially founded in 1885, is a prominent public research university located in Tempe, Arizona, United States. Recognized as a comprehensive research-intensive institution, ASU has grown to become one of the nation’s largest universities, enrolling over 150,000 students across its multiple campuses and online programs. The university encompasses 17 colleges and schools and operates four major campuses within the Phoenix metropolitan area. Distinguished by its commitment to accessibility and innovation, ASU offers educational and research opportunities on a global scale, catering to an increasingly diverse and international student population.
ASU is especially renowned for its strengths in engineering, business, sustainability, the life sciences, and social sciences. It features acclaimed interdisciplinary initiatives, such as the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. The university adopts a transdisciplinary approach, encouraging collaborative problem-solving and experiential learning. ASU is frequently ranked among the top U.S. institutions for innovation by U.S. News & World Report, and places among the top 1% of the world’s universities in the Academic Ranking of World Universities. The institution maintains robust research ties with industry and academic partners worldwide, generating over $640 million in annual research expenditures and supporting diverse joint degree and exchange programs.
Student life at ASU is vibrant and inclusive, with more than 1,000 student clubs, multicultural organizations, and service societies enriching the campus environment. The university places a strong emphasis on fostering a culture of diversity and belonging, supporting over 13,000 international students from more than 135 countries. ASU offers extensive residential housing options, state-of-the-art athletics facilities, a dynamic arts and theatre scene, and comprehensive student support services, including career advising, counseling, and wellness initiatives. Events like Homecoming, CultureFest, and Sun Devil athletics further connect students and the surrounding community, making ASU a dynamic place to study, live, and grow.
ASU’s mission centers on inclusivity, research-driven innovation, and social responsibility. Committed to advancing sustainability, equity, and global engagement, the university aspires to produce knowledge and graduates that positively impact society and shape a better future worldwide.
