Overview of Arizona State University
Arizona State University (ASU), officially established in 1885, is a prominent public research institution located in Tempe, Arizona, United States. As a comprehensive university, ASU maintains additional campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area, including Downtown Phoenix, West, and Polytechnic. With a total enrollment exceeding 150,000 students (including over 57,000 online), ASU is one of the largest public universities in the U.S. by student population. The institution is recognized for its commitment to innovation, scale, and fostering accessible, high-impact education and research opportunities.
Academic Strengths and Structure
ASU is internationally regarded for its strengths in engineering, sustainability, business, journalism, and interdisciplinary studies. Signature programs include the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the W. P. Carey School of Business, and the School of Sustainability— the latter being the first in the nation. ASU champions an interdisciplinary and entrepreneurial educational model, facilitating collaboration across its 17 colleges and schools. The university ranks among the top 150 globally (QS World University Rankings 2024) and was designated #1 in the U.S. for innovation by U.S. News & World Report for nine consecutive years. ASU produces $690 million in annual research expenditures and is renowned for institutional partnerships, such as with NASA and global academic consortia.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at ASU is vibrant and diverse, with over 1,000 registered student organizations, cultural festivals, and annual traditions fostering engagement and community. The institution is committed to inclusivity and internationalization, welcoming more than 14,000 international students from over 130 countries. Dedicated student support services—ranging from mental health counseling to career development—back student success. Housing options span from residence halls to off-campus living, complemented by leading-edge athletic facilities and robust arts programming, including museums and performing arts centers. These extracurricular offerings cultivate a holistic and dynamic university experience.
Mission, Vision, and Values
ASU’s mission centers on advancing inclusivity, access, and breakthrough innovation in higher education, while promoting social responsibility, sustainability, and global citizenship. The university aspires to positively impact communities locally and worldwide through transformative research and learning.
