Arizona State University (ASU), located in the heart of the American Southwest, is one of the most prominent and forward-thinking public research universities in the United States. With a strong emphasis on innovation, student success, and societal impact, ASU has redefined what it means to be a public university in the 21st century. From its globally recognized online programs to its groundbreaking research centers, Arizona State University continues to lead in both academic excellence and accessibility.
History and Mission
Arizona State University was established in 1885 as the Territorial Normal School in Tempe, Arizona. It began as a teacher-training school but has since evolved into a comprehensive, metropolitan research university with a global reach.
Under the leadership of President Michael M. Crow since 2002, ASU has adopted a unique mission known as the New American University model. This approach focuses on three core principles:
- Inclusivity over exclusivity in admissions.
- Excellence in research and teaching.
- Impact on the public good.
ASU’s mission is to provide education that is accessible, affordable, and measurably impactful while preparing students to be leaders and innovators in a rapidly changing world.
Campuses and Locations
Arizona State University operates across five campuses in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, each with its own distinct identity and academic strengths:
1. Tempe Campus
ASU’s original and largest campus, Tempe is the academic and research hub. It houses major programs in business, engineering, arts, and sciences.
2. Downtown Phoenix Campus
Located in Arizona’s capital, this campus is home to the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism, the College of Health Solutions, and the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law.
3. Polytechnic Campus
Located in Mesa, the Polytechnic Campus focuses on hands-on, tech-driven learning in engineering, aviation, and applied sciences.
4. West Campus
Known for interdisciplinary studies and liberal arts programs, the West Campus offers a smaller college experience within the ASU system.
5. ASU Online
ASU has become a global leader in online education, offering more than 300 fully online degree programs to students in over 100 countries.
Additionally, ASU operates research and learning centers in Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Hawaii, and international locations such as China and the UK.
Academic Excellence and Programs
ASU offers over 800 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across 16 colleges and schools. These include disciplines in:
- Business and Management
- Engineering and Technology
- Journalism and Media
- Arts and Design
- Health and Life Sciences
- Law and Public Policy
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Education and Teacher Preparation
Notable academic units include:
- W.P. Carey School of Business – Among the top-ranked public business schools in the U.S.
- Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering – Known for cutting-edge innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication – A national leader in journalism education.
- Barrett, The Honors College – One of the top honors colleges in the nation, offering a liberal arts education within a large university setting.
ASU’s curriculum encourages interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and real-world application, preparing students for success in the modern economy.
Innovation and Research
Arizona State University has been ranked the #1 Most Innovative University in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report every year since 2016—beating out institutions like MIT and Stanford.
The university leads in areas such as:
- Sustainability and Climate Science
- Space Exploration and Planetary Research
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Biodesign and Health Innovations
- Smart Cities and Urban Development
Key research facilities include:
- Biodesign Institute – Focuses on biomedical, environmental, and sustainability research.
- Global Institute of Sustainability and Innovation
- School for the Future of Innovation in Society
ASU partners with NASA, the Department of Defense, Fortune 500 companies, and international agencies, providing students with vast opportunities for research and internship experience.
Student Life and Campus Culture
ASU offers a vibrant and inclusive student experience, with more than 1,000 student organizations, cultural clubs, honor societies, and interest groups. The university is home to a diverse student population from all 50 states and more than 150 countries.
Key Aspects of Student Life:
- Sun Devil Athletics – Competing in NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference.
- Arts and Culture – The Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts hosts concerts, exhibitions, and performances year-round.
- Global Education – Study abroad programs in 65+ countries.
- Sustainability Living – Green residence halls and eco-friendly initiatives are embedded in campus life.
ASU also provides comprehensive services for student health, counseling, career development, and academic support.
Commitment to Inclusion and Accessibility
ASU is recognized for its dedication to inclusive education. It maintains a high level of ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic diversity, and has implemented programs to support:
- First-generation college students
- Undocumented students
- Military and veteran learners
- Students with disabilities
- Non-traditional and working students
Through initiatives like the ASU Access Program, financial aid workshops, and mentorship networks, the university ensures that a quality education is within reach for all.
Financial Aid and Affordability
Arizona State University is committed to keeping tuition reasonable while offering robust financial aid options.
Financial Aid Resources Include:
- Merit-based scholarships (e.g., New American University Scholarship)
- Need-based grants and aid
- Federal Work-Study and part-time jobs
- In-state tuition eligibility for certain out-of-state students
- ASU Online tuition discounts
Nearly 90% of ASU students receive some form of financial aid, and the university is consistently ranked as a top value among U.S. public universities.
Alumni and Global Impact
With over 500,000 alumni worldwide, ASU graduates are making significant contributions in various fields such as business, science, public service, education, and the arts.
Notable Alumni:
- Kate Spade, fashion designer
- Phil Mickelson, professional golfer
- David Spade, actor and comedian
- Doug Ducey, former Governor of Arizona
- Jimmy Kimmel, television host and comedian
ASU’s alumni network is active in mentoring, networking, and creating professional opportunities for current students and fellow graduates.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
ASU is a global leader in sustainability education and practice. It was the first university to offer a degree in Sustainability and operates one of the most eco-conscious campuses in the country.
Highlights include:
- 100% renewable energy goals
- Zero waste campaigns
- Green buildings and LEED certifications
- Sustainability literacy programs for all students
ASU’s Charter emphasizes responsibility toward the community and the planet, embedding social and environmental justice into the academic mission.
Conclusion
Arizona State University stands as a modern model of what higher education can be—inclusive, innovative, research-driven, and globally engaged. With its commitment to excellence and social impact, ASU is transforming lives, advancing knowledge, and leading society into a better, more sustainable future.
For students who seek a dynamic and empowering learning environment, a degree from Arizona State University represents more than just an education—it represents a launchpad for lifelong success and leadership.